Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone may drop key features despite carrying an Ultra price tag

Face ID and Biometric Sensors May Be Shelved

Apple's first foldable i Phone, expected to launch in 2026, could cost over $2,000 yet lack several signature features found on current models, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The device, unofficially dubbed the i Phone Ultra,may surprise fans by omitting technologies long considered standard across Apple's smartphone lineup.

Sources familiar with the matter say Apple is weighing cost and design challenges as it prepares to enter the competitive foldable market. The company has reportedly struggled to integrate certain components into the thinner, flexible form factor, leading to discussions about which features to prioritize. While the phone is expected to debut alongside the i Phone 17 series in September 2026, its final specifications remain uncertain.

Kuo's latest research note suggests Apple might replace Face ID with an under-display camera system or rely solely on a fingerprint sensor embedded in the power button. This shift would mark a significant departure from Apple's facial recognition strategy, which has been a cornerstone of its security approach since the i Phone X. Engineers are reportedly exploring alternative biometric solutions that better suit the foldable design without compromising user experience.

Will MagSafe and Action Button Survive the Cut?

The iconic MagSafe wireless charging system may also be absent from the foldable model, as Apple explores new magnetic attachment methods compatible with the device's unique structure. Similarly, the Action button introduced on the i Phone 15 Pro series could be omitted to streamline manufacturing. However, the phone is still expected to include a high-quality telephoto camera, maintaining Apple's commitment to advanced photography capabilities despite the feature reductions.

These potential omissions raise questions about how Apple will justify the Ultra branding and premium pricing if core functionalities are missing. Consumers may need to adjust expectations for what defines an Ultraexperience in Apple's foldable era.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the foldable i Phone include Face ID? Current reports indicate Apple may replace Face ID with under-display camera technology or fingerprint authentication to accommodate the foldable design.

Is MagSafe charging expected on the device? Analysts suggest MagSafe could be excluded, with Apple potentially developing new magnetic solutions tailored for foldable hardware.

When will Apple release its first foldable i Phone? The device is anticipated to launch in September 2026, possibly alongside the i Phone 17 lineup, though exact timing remains unconfirmed.