The hype about the foldable iPhone just keeps growing, but not all rumors pan out. Although some leaks had claimed that Apple’s first foldable would have a revolutionary under-display fingerprint sensor, but prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has refuted these claims very emphatically. Instead, he says the foldable iPhone will use a side-mounted Touch ID sensor for biometric security.
Analyst refutes under-display fingerprint rumors
Apple iPhone 18 series likely to launch in 2026 with Apple’s first foldable iPhone to take on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Kuo has also mentioned multiple times that Apple will not put Face ID on the foldable. Instead, the foldable iPhone will revert to a side-mounted Touch ID sensor, a decision that he has been consistent with for over six months despite fresh rumors around an under-display alternative this time around.
Supplier confirmation strengthens the prediction
Kuo said that longtime Apple supplier Luxshare will supply the side-mounted Touch ID components for the foldable iPhone. This adds to the rumor that Apple will pass on an under-display fingerprint for its first foldable.
Why Apple would put Touch ID on the side instead of the front
There are pragmatic reasons for Apple’s move. Under-display sensors can be inaccurate, especially if fingers are wet or gloved. This would have been annoying to have to swivel on a high-end product, like the foldable iPhone.
Furthermore, it will also sport two displays, since the foldable iPhone will allegedly have a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7-like book-style design. There would probably need to be two under-display sensors – one on each screen to cost and complexity. This problem is solved with a single off-centered Touch ID sensor.
Leveraging Apple’s existing supply chain
Side-mounted Touch ID has already made its way to a few iPads like the iPad Air, among others. Employing the same reliable technology in the foldable iPhone would enable Apple to take advantage of its own supply chain. It eliminates the expensive, time-consuming setup of new production lines in order to install the under-display fingerprint sensors.
What’s the next move from Apple on foldables
Some fans may be underwhelmed that there is no under-display fingerprint tech but Apple’s inspiration for the foldable iPhone appears to be reliability, cost-effectiveness and tried and tested tech. Apple’s reluctance to jump on a side-mounted Touch ID sensor means its foldable flagship will avoid potential issues around authentication, without breaking the design lines.
With the Q4 2026 launch expected to edge closer over the next few years, further rumors regarding thefoldable iPhone are bound to appear. But short of Apple taking an about-face on its directions, it seems Kuo has once again been proven right on his claims of a side-mounted Touch ID sensor.
FAQ
Can I unlock the foldable iPhone with Face ID while moving? Instead it will feature a side-mounted Touch ID sensor.
Under-display sensors may have difficulty with wet fingers, gloves, and are duplicated for dual screens. Apple believes the new side-mounted approach would be more reliable and cheaper.
Apple-trusted manufacturer Luxshare would be the Touch ID sensor provider on the foldable iPhone.
