Why Apple Removed Face ID From iPhone Ultra Fold

Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market in 2026 with the rumored iPhone Ultra Fold, a premium device expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. According to multiple industry reports and supply chain leaks, Apple is making one major compromise to achieve its ultra-thin foldable design: removing Face ID in favor of a side-mounted Touch ID sensor.

The decision appears to be driven by engineering limitations tied to foldable hardware. Reports suggest the iPhone Ultra Fold could measure just 4.5mm thick when unfolded, making it one of the thinnest foldable phones ever created. Integrating Apple’s complex Face ID hardware system into such a slim chassis reportedly proved difficult without increasing thickness or compromising display quality.

Instead, Apple is expected to place Touch ID inside the power button, similar to the design used on certain iPad models. The move would help Apple preserve internal space for other key components, including a larger battery, advanced hinge mechanism and dual-display system.

The iPhone Ultra Fold is rumored to feature a 7.8-inch inner foldable OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a smaller external screen around 5.5 inches. Apple is also reportedly focusing heavily on reducing the visible crease that has become one of the biggest criticisms of foldable devices. Leaks point to the use of advanced ultra-thin glass technology and a redesigned hinge structure built with titanium, aluminum and liquid metal materials for improved durability.

Performance is expected to be powered by Apple’s upcoming A20 chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm process. The foldable iPhone may include up to 12GB RAM, storage options reaching 1TB, Apple’s custom 5G modem and what could become the largest battery ever placed inside an iPhone, reportedly between 5,500mAh and 5,800mAh.

Apple is also expected to simplify the camera setup to maintain the device’s thin profile. Rumors suggest the Ultra Fold will feature a dual 48MP rear camera system instead of the triple-lens arrangement found on Pro Max models. Some leaks claim the telephoto camera may be removed entirely.

Another notable detail is Apple’s reportedly limited launch strategy. According to recent reports from MacRumors, the iPhone Ultra Fold could launch in only two colors, potentially including silver/white and a dark indigo finish. Analysts believe Apple is intentionally keeping production limited due to the complexity of manufacturing foldable displays and hinges at scale.

Pricing is expected to place the device firmly in the ultra-premium category. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and multiple supply chain analysts believe the foldable iPhone could start above $2,000, making it the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever released.

Despite concerns from some fans about losing Face ID, Apple appears focused on creating a foldable device that prioritizes portability, battery life and durability over maintaining every existing iPhone feature. Industry analysts believe Apple’s entry into the foldable market could significantly reshape competition currently dominated by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup.

The iPhone Ultra Fold is currently rumored for a September 2026 announcement, although supply chain reports indicate availability may remain limited through the end of the year.