The iPhone Fold is one of the most anticipated smartphones of 2026, arriving almost seven years after Samsung introduced its first foldable device. That said, rumors surrounding Apple"s first foldable phone continue to emerge from all directions. Most recently, a tipster has suggested that the iPhone Fold may abandon Face ID in favor of a side-mounted Touch ID sensor.
According to Digital Chat Station on Weibo, Apple has allegedly decided to equip its first foldable with a side-mounted Touch ID, opting against Face ID or 3D ultrasonic fingerprint technology that are commonly used on iPhones and other flagships.
The tipster claims that this decision is aimed at keeping the device as thin as possible, mirroring the approach Apple has already taken with the iPhone Air. This aligns with previous reports from Mark Gurman, who suggested that next year"s iPhone Fold could look like two iPad Airs placed side by side.
You might have seen side-mounted fingerprint sensors on some budget phones. While Apple has previously used this technology on the iPad Air, bringing it to a flagship smartphone that may cost over $2,000 could disappoint some fans.
Digital Chat Station also sheds more light on the alleged iPhone Fold specifications, including a 7.58-inch inner display and a 5.25-inch cover screen. Additionally, the device reportedly features a 48MP dual-sensor camera setup, along with front camera sensors available in both under-display and punch-hole variants. The tipster also alludes to Samsung"s plans to launch a new wide foldable phone.
The iPhone Fold is expected to launch in September 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. One of the most recent rumors suggests that Apple may release the device with eSIM only, removing the SIM tray to trim additional millimeters. So far, it seems that Apple is willing to make any compromises to manufacture the thinnest foldable ever.