Foldable iPhone Testers Praise Hinge, Reveal Camera and Touch ID Tradeoffs

Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone has already been used by several people ahead of its expected September debut, with early impressions pointing to a mix of premium design features and notable hardware compromises, according to Mark Gurman.



Those who have used the device praise how easily it fits into a pocket, along with the feel and durability of its advanced hinge mechanism. They also highlighted new iPad-like app layouts designed specifically for the larger internal display, allowing the foldable iPhone to better support productivity and gaming. Apple is expected to position the device as an ultra-premium halo product and a marketing engine that brings customers into its retail stores.


The early feedback also points to a few notable compromises. The foldable iPhone reportedly excels as a camera viewfinder but will lack a telephoto camera. That omission could disappoint buyers expecting Apple's most advanced camera system on a handset projected to cost more than $2,000.

Authentication also takes a different approach than current flagship models. The device is expected to feature Touch ID instead of Face ID, aligning with earlier looks at physical dummy units that showed a side-mounted fingerprint sensor built into the power button.

Apple is entering a category that Samsung, Huawei, Google, and other smartphone makers have spent years refining. The company is expected to rely on its brand recognition and vast installed base to introduce foldable phones to millions of consumers for the first time. The opportunity is especially significant in China, which accounted for more than half of global foldable smartphone shipments last year, with more than 10 million units sold.