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New Model Will Hit The Market With Expressive Sales Projections
The Apple Foldable iPhone, expected in 2026, is already generating huge anticipation in the technology market.
According to information released by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for anticipating the company’s trends, the device will no longer feature the Face ID facial recognition system, which has been present since 2017.
The change is linked to the reduced thickness of the model, which makes it impossible to integrate the necessary sensors.
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Thus, the alternative chosen by Apple will be the Touch ID on the side button, a feature similar to that implemented on the iPad Air 4, launched in 2020.
Technical Decision Favors Ultra-Thin Design
According to Kuo, the main differentiator of the new iPhone Fold will be its compact design.
The device is expected to be between 9 and 9.5 mm thick when closed and 4.5 to 4.8 mm open, confirming the challenge.
With these reduced measurements, the integration of Face ID became unfeasible.
Although there were rumors about the adoption of an under-display fingerprint sensor, similar to those used in some Android models, Kuo refuted the possibility.
According to the analyst, the solution still faces high production costs and technical limitations that prevent large-scale implementation.
Launch Timeline and Sales Projections
The project for the foldable iPhone is expected to be completed by mid-2025, with mass production anticipated for late 2026.
The launch will coincide with the iPhone 18 line.
Estimates point to initial sales between 3 and 5 million units in the first year, a number considered significant for a novel device.
In addition, projections indicate that by 2027, with the arrival of the second generation, sales could reach up to 20 million units.
Ming-Chi Kuo’s History with Apple Predictions
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has distinguished himself by anticipating various moves of Apple, although not always with complete accuracy.
In previous reports, he claimed that the foldable iPhone would be launched in 2024 and would feature Touch ID under the display.
These claims were revised in light of technical obstacles and changes in the company’s priorities.
The return of the fingerprint sensor on the side button reinforces Apple’s strategy to prioritize ultra-thin design even at the expense of already established technologies.
Competition in the Foldable Market
Apple’s bet on this new format comes in a competitive landscape, especially as other giants have consistently and innovatively occupied space in this segment.
Currently, Samsung and Huawei dominate the foldable smartphone market, further strengthening interest in consumer preference.
Despite this, Apple advances with an innovative design and focus on user experience, demonstrating a clear intention to redefine standards.
Furthermore, even without Face ID, the iPhone Fold promises to be a significant player among the major tech launches in the second half of the decade.
Therefore, by aiming boldly and strategically at this niche, Apple enhances its competitiveness and challenges the established leaders in the industry.
