Apple is gearing up to shake up the smartphone market again—this time with its first-ever foldable iPhone, expected to hit production in 2026. But that’s not the only big change in store. If reports from industry insiders are accurate, a familiar feature could be making a comeback: Touch ID.
Face ID May Be Out, Touch ID Might Return
Since the iPhone X, Face ID has been Apple’s go-to for biometric security. But according to fresh rumors circulating on Weibo and picked up by industry tipsters, Apple’s foldable iPhone might skip Face ID entirely. Why? The foldable design is expected to use a punch-hole front camera—similar to many Android phones—which leaves no room for the current Face ID sensor setup.
This opens the door for Touch ID to return, potentially integrated into the power button, just like it is on newer iPads. It’s a move that not only simplifies the display but also aligns with current Apple hardware trends.
Foldable iPhone Specs and Market Timeline
According to analyst Jeff Pu, who shared insights in a research note with GF Securities, Apple has started the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase for not one, but two foldable devices at Foxconn. These devices are expected to feature Samsung-supplied display tech aimed at reducing screen creases—a common issue with foldables.
Battery capacity is projected to be around 5,000mAh, which puts Apple slightly behind competitors like Samsung and Huawei in terms of raw power. Still, Apple’s strength has always been optimization, so it may not be a deal-breaker.
| Feature | Expected Specification |
|---|---|
| Biometric Security | Touch ID (Power Button) |
| Camera | Punch-hole Front Camera |
| Battery | ~5,000mAh |
| Production Start | H2 2026 |
| Market Release | By 2027 |
What This Means for the Market
The return of Touch ID and the debut of a foldable iPhone mark significant shifts in market trends for Apple. While competitors in the Android space have already flooded the market with foldables, Apple’s entry is expected to reignite consumer interest globally. Meanwhile, investors are watching closely, with expectations that Apple’s innovation could spark rallies not just in tech stocks but even influence sectors like auto stocks and banking through supply chain and service integrations.
It’s too early to call this a game-changer, but with production ramping up and features like Touch ID on the horizon, Apple seems ready to redefine the premium foldable segment—again.