Apple’s Foldable iPhone May Finally Deliver a Long-Awaited Feature for Users
Apple’s upcoming iPhone Fold may introduce a feature that users have been anticipating for years. While details remain limited, this new model is expected to address a persistent demand and could mark a significant evolution in Apple’s smartphone lineup.
Tl;dr
- Rumors of iPhone Fold bring back Touch ID.
- Technical limits rule out under-display sensors for now.
- Upcoming Apple event to unveil iPhone 17 lineup.
A surprising comeback for Touch ID
Although the world of foldable smartphones keeps expanding, all eyes are now turning towards Apple as rumors swirl about its very first iPhone Fold. Amid expectations of a breakthrough device, a nostalgic move in security technology is capturing attention: the possible revival of the iconic Touch ID. Influential analysts—most notably Ming-Chi Kuo—suggest that Apple could integrate a fingerprint reader directly into the power button, positioned along the edge of this future device. If true, it would mark a notable departure from recent trends.
Technical hurdles: Why Face ID may take a backseat
It’s worth remembering that since the removal of the home button after the iPhone X, Face ID has become the standard security feature on flagship models. Interestingly, while Android competitors such as Samsung‘s Galaxy S25 have adopted under-display fingerprint scanners, this technology seems off the table for Apple’s first foldable. Industry observers attribute this decision to two main factors: engineering complexity and space constraints inside foldable hardware. At least for now, embedding a sensor beneath the display is considered technically unfeasible for Apple’s inaugural attempt at a flexible phone.
A changing industry—with Apple still watching?
Such conservatism from Apple might raise eyebrows. For years, the company sought to outpace rivals with bold technological leaps. And yet—seven years after foldable phones began hitting store shelves—Apple has yet to enter this segment officially. Today, lateral fingerprint sensors remain dominant among flexible model manufacturers across the board. Within Apple’s own ecosystem, only select products like MacBook, most iPads and proprietary keyboards still rely on this biometric system.
A flurry of releases: What’s next for Apple?
Looking ahead, leaks indicate that the debut of Apple’s foldable could coincide with the launch of the future iPhone 18 lineup in 2025. However, anticipation is building already: an imminent event next week is set to introduce the new iPhone 17 series. On stage should be:
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone 17 Air
As ever in mobile tech, every detail can shift industry dynamics—even when it means returning to fundamentals long thought left behind. In short, Apple’s cautious approach may surprise some, but sometimes history offers just as much innovation as novelty itself.