Apple’s venture into foldable smartphones is poised to reshape consumer expectations, with recent leaks suggesting a 2026 launch that revives a biometric feature long absent from its flagship lineup. According to reports, the device, internally codenamed V68, will adopt a book-style folding mechanism, unfolding to reveal a larger inner display while maintaining a compact form when closed. This move comes as competitors like Samsung and Google have already established a foothold in foldables, but Apple’s entry could introduce premium refinements that prioritize user experience over haste.

Insiders indicate the foldable iPhone will command a price tag exceeding $2,000, positioning it as a luxury item aimed at early adopters and tech enthusiasts. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, in his Power On newsletter, detailed how the phone will feature four cameras—one on the front, one inside, and two on the back—enhancing versatility for photography in both folded and unfolded states. This setup promises to address limitations in current foldables, where camera placement can feel awkward.

A Biometric Blast from the Past

What truly sets this device apart, however, is the rumored return of Touch ID, Apple’s fingerprint recognition system that debuted in 2013 but was phased out in favor of Face ID starting with the iPhone X in 2017. Sources suggest that technical challenges with under-display sensors in foldable screens have made Face ID impractical for this model, leading Apple to resurrect the older technology. As noted in a recent article from PhoneArena, this “slightly outdated” feature could simplify unlocking in scenarios where facial recognition falters, such as low-light environments or when wearing masks.

The decision makes practical sense for a foldable form factor, where users might interact with the device in varied orientations—perhaps glancing at notifications on the outer screen without fully opening it. Touch ID’s integration could be embedded in the power button or display edge, offering a seamless alternative that harkens back to the tactile satisfaction many users fondly remember from earlier iPhones. Industry analysts argue this isn’t mere nostalgia; it’s a strategic pivot to ensure reliability in a category prone to creases and durability concerns.

Broader Innovations and Market Strategy

Beyond biometrics, the foldable iPhone is expected to incorporate Apple’s in-house cellular modem, marking a departure from Qualcomm chips and potentially improving integration with iOS. This aligns with Apple’s push for vertical integration, as highlighted in coverage from Tom’s Guide, which also teases a three-year reinvention cycle for iPhones, including ultra-thin models in 2025 and all-glass designs by 2027.

Such ambitious roadmaps underscore Apple’s methodical approach, contrasting with rivals’ quicker but sometimes flawed iterations. For instance, while Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series has iterated annually, Apple’s delay allows for polishing issues like screen durability and hinge mechanics, potentially setting a new standard.

Implications for Consumers and Competitors

The revival of Touch ID could resonate particularly with professionals who value speed and security in dynamic settings, from boardrooms to fieldwork. It also signals Apple’s willingness to blend legacy features with cutting-edge design, appealing to a broad user base that includes those resistant to Face ID’s privacy implications.

Competitors may need to respond; if Apple’s foldable succeeds, it could accelerate adoption rates, pushing others to innovate further in biometrics and form factors. As detailed in The Guardian, experts view this as a sign consumers crave devices optimizing portability and functionality, potentially heralding a shift toward more versatile mobile computing.

Challenges Ahead for Apple’s Foldable Ambitions

Yet, hurdles remain. Pricing at over $2,000 risks alienating mainstream buyers, especially amid economic uncertainties. Durability concerns, a common critique of foldables, will be under scrutiny—Apple must ensure its device withstands daily use without visible creases or failures.

Moreover, integrating Touch ID effectively requires overcoming past limitations, like slower recognition in cold weather, but advancements in sensor tech could mitigate these. Reports from MacRumors echo analyst Ming-Chi Kuo’s predictions of a late 2026 or early 2027 debut, giving Apple time to refine these elements.

In essence, Apple’s foldable iPhone represents a calculated evolution, blending innovation with familiar reliability. By bringing back Touch ID, the company isn’t just folding a screen—it’s folding in user feedback to craft a device that feels both futuristic and reassuringly intuitive. As the 2026 launch approaches, all eyes will be on whether this gamble pays off in a crowded market.