- Touch ID is predicted on the upcoming folding iPhone
- It’s most likely to be built into the power button
- The same feature is available on several Apple iPads
After years and years of rumors, we could be a mere 12 months away from the launch of the first foldable iPhone – and according to one well-placed tipster, it’s likely to come with Touch ID built into the power button, rather than under the display.
This comes from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the more reliable sources when it comes to Apple predictions, and is a response to “market rumors” that the fingerprint sensor will be placed under the screen – as with many of the best Android phones.
Apple has of course never put a Touch ID sensor under the screen of one of its products, though the technology has been built into the power button on several iPads, starting with the iPad Air 4 that was announced in September 2020.
That’s the approach the folding iPhone is going to use, Kuo says. The analyst has been making this prediction for several months now, but clearly felt there were enough rumors to the contrary to set the record straight.
No Face ID
Six months ago, I predicted the foldable iPhone would use side-button Touch ID. There are now market rumors that it will adopt an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, but I think that’s unlikely. It’s expected that Luxshare ICT will supply the side-button Touch ID module… https://t.co/KsGu49JXkPSeptember 1, 2025
It’s worth noting that Kuo doesn’t say that an under-display Touch ID sensor is completely off the table, just that it’s “unlikely” at this stage – even going as far as naming the manufacturer that’s in line to supply the Touch ID module for the power button.
For a long time now, it’s been clear that the foldable iPhone would use Touch ID. The most probable reason that Face ID isn’t being implemented is that the necessary cameras and sensors would add too much thickness to the handset.
It makes sense that Apple would go with a technology that’s already present in several of its tablets: it means it can try and keep costs down as much as possible, and the folding iPhone is in effect an iPad (a 7.8-inch main screen has been rumored).
We should know for sure in September 2026, which is when most tipsters agree we’re going to see this iPhone Fold make its first official appearance. In the meantime, the iPhone 17 is due to be unveiled this time next week.
