Rumours of Apple’s foldable iPhone with touch ID spark global anticipation

Foldable iPhone is rumoured to come in four sleek colour options: black, white, light blue, and light gold
An undated image of iPhone 16. — Apple/Canva
An undated image of iPhone 16. — Apple/Canva

Speculation surrounding Apple’s first foldable iPhone has intensified, with tech enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the company’s upcoming iPhone launch event next month.

Recent reports have suggested that the much-anticipated foldable device could officially debut in 2026, marking a major shift in Apple’s smartphone lineup.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the foldable iPhone is expected to feature a book-style design, four rear cameras, and, most notably, the return of Touch ID technology.

This would be the first time since the third-generation iPhone SE that Apple reintroduces fingerprint authentication.

Analysts believe Touch ID could offer greater practicality than Face ID on a foldable device, given its unique hardware design.

The company is said to have abandoned its earlier plan for on-cell touch sensors in favour of in-cell touchscreen technology, aiming to deliver more accurate touch responses while minimising screen creases, a common issue in foldable devices.

Apple's foldable iPhone colours (expected)

The foldable iPhone is rumoured to come in four sleek colour options: black, white, light blue, and light gold.

This range, combined with its advanced features, is expected to make it one of the most eye-catching devices in Apple’s history.

At next month’s launch event, Apple may also unveil the iPhone Air, a slimmer model equipped with a single rear camera, alongside other products such as the AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.

Apple's foldable iPhone release date (expected)

While the foldable iPhone will not arrive until 2026, Apple’s iPhone 17 series is set to open for pre-orders on September 12, with official sales starting on September 19.