Apple's Foldable iPhone Could Bring Back Touch ID with a Side-Mounted Fingerprint Scanner

Apple has been reportedly working on the first foldable iPhone for quite some time now. Now, with the arrival of the foldable inching closer, leaks and rumours are constantly pouring in. The latest one hints at a side-mounted Touch ID solution for the device.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that the debut foldable iPhone from Apple will use a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded within the power button for Touch ID. His X post says that while several rumours hint at an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for the foldable iPhone, it is highly unlikely.

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/KsGu49JXkP
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) September 1, 2025

Kuo's current post is in line with his March forecast, which he made for the upcoming foldable device from Apple. He further claims that the Chinese electronic components' manufacturer, "Luxshare ICT will supply the side-button Touch ID module for the foldable iPhone".

Apart from this, Kuo's current post has not mentioned any further detail regarding the upcoming device. However, his earlier claims outlined a book-style foldable design for the debut folding iPhone. It has been tipped to feature a 5.5-inch display on the outside and unfold itself into a 7.8-inch panel.

If the rumours are to be believed, this could become the only mainstream foldable to feature a "compact" outer screen. For context, the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold feature 6.5-inch and 6.4-inch screens, respectively.

mockup image of Apple's upcoming Foldable iPhone in front of a gradient blue background — Image Credit: Beebom Gadgets

Apple has apparently partnered with Samsung Display for the production of foldable OLED panels for the upcoming book-style foldable iPhone. That said, with the foldable iPhone expected to launch in 2026, based on earlier rumours, the device can enter production as early as Q4 2025.

It is also expected that Apple is looking to implement laser-drilled display metal plates on its upcoming foldable. These plates will be made by South Korean supplier, Fine M-Tec and are intended to minimise creases by distributing the bending stress for a more "crease-free" experience.

That said, it is no doubt that Apple will position its first ever foldable phone as a "premium" offering. Early reports hint at a $2,000 (approximately Rs 1,77,000) to $2,500 (approximately Rs 2,21,000) price bracket for the smartphone.