Apple’s Folding iPhone May Revive Cult Tech, Sacrificing Another: Find Out Which!

A recently released report has shed light on the technical aspects of Apple’s inaugural folding smartphone. According to this document, the upcoming sensation from the Cupertino-based company is expected to replace a key feature with another that was beloved by early iPhone aficionados.

Apple is known for its strategy of trailing behind competitors to first gauge the market, then turning well-established technologies into commercial successes. With folding smartphones becoming a significant market segment thanks to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip lines since 2019, all eyes are on Apple to see how it will respond.

There have already been numerous leaks about what is often referred to in our reports as the iPhone Fold: Apple’s foldable smartphone is rumored to be a marvel of design and might even come at a lower price than expected. However, its release date and most of its features had remained enigmatic… until now.

The foldable iPhone could herald the return of a much-loved feature

A comprehensive report from investment bank J.P. Morgan, shared on Twitter by journalist Max Weinbach, reveals the release timeline and some technical details of Apple’s future flagship models, including the foldable iPhone. The document confirms that Apple’s first-ever foldable smartphone is slated to launch in fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and 18 Air. It also indicates that Apple might ditch a key feature in favor of another that has been greatly missed by users.

According to the report, the foldable iPhones – yes, “iPhones” since a second one is expected in 2027 – will feature a 24 Mpx under-display selfie camera. However, there is no mention of Face ID: whether this is an oversight in the document or an intentional omission by Apple of facial recognition for its foldable models remains to be confirmed by further leaks or an official announcement from the Cupertino firm.

If it is not merely an oversight, the lack of Face ID suggests the revival of a feature that early iPhone fans cherished: the Touch ID sensor. According to our colleagues at PhoneArena, this speculation is not new; various rumors have previously suggested the possibility of a fingerprint sensor on the side button, which would make unlocking the device more convenient.