Apple is reportedly planning to revive Touch ID with its first foldable iPhone in 2026, replacing Face ID with fingerprint authentication on the new device.
Apple is reportedly preparing to bring back Touch ID with its first-ever foldable iPhone.
According to Bloomberg, the foldable device – supposedly code-named V68 – is expected in 2026 and will resemble Samsung’s book-style models that open into a small tablet.
Unlike recent iPhones, the foldable will reportedly not include Face ID, and Apple instead plans to integrate Touch ID as the primary authentication system, giving the phone a “throwback” element.
The handset is said to feature four cameras: one on the front, one inside and two on the back.
The foldable iPhone will also reportedly drop the SIM-card slot entirely, continuing Apple’s push toward eSIM-only models.
Suppliers are said to be preparing to ramp up production early next year for a fall release.
The Cupertino-based company has also allegedly made changes to its display technology for the foldable.
Apple was initially planning to use on-cell touch sensors, but it has been said the company has now pivoted to in-cell displays, which should reduce the prominence of the crease and improve touch accuracy.
If the foldable launches as scheduled, it will be part of a string of redesigns.
It is expected this September will see the debut of the iPhone 17 range alongside a new iPhone Air, while Apple is said to be planning a curved-glass “iPhone 20” for 2027 to mark the smartphone’s 20th anniversary.
Though unconfirmed, industry watchers suggest Apple’s return to Touch ID could appeal to users who prefer fingerprint authentication over facial recognition, especially in markets where privacy and security concerns remain high.
Apple ‘to revive Touch ID with foldable iPhone’
