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Apple looks set to enter the foldable smartphone market next year, despite its late start. The buzz surrounding its upcoming release is enormous. Based on early leaks and expert predictions, the device is expected to be a sleek, refined foldable that addresses the notorious display crease problem. It might also be one of the slimmest foldable phones available.
However, not every feature is expected to push the boundaries. According to a recent Bloomberg report by Mark Gurman, the new foldable iPhone may not redefine benchmarks. Instead, it could involve some compromises or stick with older technologies, even by Apple’s standards.
Are the cameras falling short?
The rumored camera setup includes four lenses: one on the front, one inside, and two on the back. This configuration aligns with the current iPhone 16 models and their upcoming successors, which also feature dual-lens rear cameras.
In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts three cameras, including a massive 200-megapixel sensor. Honor has packed a 64-megapixel periscope-style zoom lens into its Magic V5 foldable, and Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a triple-camera system.
Interestingly, similar to the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, this foldable iPhone might eliminate the physical SIM slot altogether, opting solely for an eSIM. This could stir controversy, considering many foldables on the market—like Google’s Pixel 10 Pro—offer both physical nano SIM and eSIM options.
Will Touch ID make a comeback?
Another notable rumor suggests Apple will switch back to a Touch ID fingerprint sensor, replacing the face recognition system that’s become standard on recent iPhones. The last Apple device with Touch ID was the iPhone SE.
For foldable phones, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor makes practical sense. The full-screen Face ID module takes up precious space and would need to be implemented twice—once on the cover display and again inside the foldable panel.
A physical fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button on the device’s edge would provide quick and easy biometric authentication, whether you’re using the outer screen or working on the inner display.
This isn’t entirely new for Apple. The company continues to include Touch ID on the power buttons of some iPads, like the iPad mini, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad models. It also remains a feature on MacBooks and Magic Keyboards, albeit in different forms.
What about connectivity and color options?
Apple is reportedly planning to use a second-generation in-house cellular modem for the foldable iPhone—a more advanced successor to the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e. As for colors, the new foldable is expected to be offered primarily in classic shades like black and white, with a limited palette.
Looking ahead
It will be intriguing to see what software features Apple introduces for its first foldable. Enthusiasts remain hopeful, especially given the steep price—nearly two thousand dollars—for what could be a groundbreaking device in the making. All eyes will be on how Apple balances innovation with practicality in this next-generation foldable phone.
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