Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has recently addressed circulating rumors regarding Apple’s anticipated iPhone Fold, particularly concerning its biometric authentication features. Contrary to some reports suggesting the integration of under-screen Touch ID, Kuo asserts that this technology will not be part of the device’s design.
Design Constraints and Biometric Choices
The iPhone Fold’s slim profile presents significant challenges in incorporating certain biometric technologies. While Face ID has been a staple in recent iPhone models, its inclusion in the foldable variant appears improbable due to spatial limitations. Kuo emphasizes that under-screen Touch ID is also off the table for this model. Instead, Apple plans to implement Touch ID via the side button, a method first introduced with the iPad Air 4 in 2020, which was lauded as an incredible feat of engineering.
Technical and Manufacturing Considerations
Apple has explored under-display biometric solutions, even securing patents for both Touch ID and Face ID technologies. However, the primary hurdle remains the size of the components required for these systems. Even if Apple has developed methods to register touch or facial recognition through a display, the technology may still be too costly for mass production.
Production Timeline and Market Projections
Kuo provides insights into the iPhone Fold’s development schedule and expected market performance. He anticipates that the final design will be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2025, with production commencing by the end of 2026. The device is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 series. Initial sales projections estimate between 3 million to 5 million units in 2026, with potential growth to 20 million units in 2027. This forecast includes sales of a second-generation iPhone Fold, which Kuo predicts will debut alongside the iPhone 19 series.
Design Specifications
Kuo reiterates previous claims regarding the device’s dimensions, stating that the iPhone Fold will measure between 9mm and 9.5mm in thickness when folded, and between 4.5mm and 4.8mm when unfolded.
Reliability of Information
While Kuo’s reports often blend information from supply chain sources with his own analyses, he has a track record of accurate predictions concerning Apple’s product developments. It’s noteworthy that earlier forecasts suggested a 2024 release for the iPhone Fold featuring under-screen Touch ID, indicating that plans have evolved over time.
