Apple Testing Foldable iPhone Display; In-Screen Touch ID May Debut in 2021: Bloomberg

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman continues to share details about Apple’s future products, and his latest report focuses on the iPhone.

According to unnamed sources, Apple “has developed prototype foldable screens for internal testing, but hasn’t solidified plans to actually launch a foldable iPhone,” says Gurman. So far, just the foldable display with nearly invisible hinges is under development, with one the same size as the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The report says a foldable iPhone “is likely years away” or may not be produced at all.

2021 iPhone Will Be an “S” Upgrade

Gurman says this year’s iPhone launch won’t see major advancements, as it’s being pegged as another “S” upgrade, according to sources and engineers inside Apple.

Apple is still testing Touch ID built into the iPhone’s display as part of a 2021 feature upgrade. It addition would help with unlocking iPhones during COVID-19, as Face ID doesn’t work with masks, unless you try setup workarounds.

The report says Apple has also talked about removing the Lighting port for some iPhones, instead utilizing MagSafe wireless charging only. Gurman reported earlier MagSafe is returning to future MacBook Pro models.

AirTags in 2021

As for Apple’s rumoured AirTags trackers, Gurman says they are being planned for a 2021 launch, and will have numerous accessories including a leather keychain.

iPad Details for 2021

Gurman says this year’s iPad Pro will have a similar design still, but MiniLED display and processor upgrades will be available. As for the regular iPad, it will have the same design as the 2019 iPad Air and is still underway.

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about a foldable iPhone. Back in November, it was rumoured Apple had sent foldable iPhone displays to Foxconn for testing. In February 2019, Apple patents for a foldable iPhone were discovered, detailing how such a device would work.

In late December, foldable iPhone prototypes had reportedly passed the company’s internal testing.

Would you be interested in a foldable iPhone? It would be one way to cram a larger display into your pocket (and also extract money from your bank account).

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