Fingerprint sensor on Apple Testing screen for iPhone 13, folding iPhone also in the works

Apple has begun work “early on” on an iPhone that has a folding screen, according to a new report from Apple BloombergMark Gurman. Although testing for a foldable iPhone has begun, Apple has not promised to release a device with a foldable screen.

Development has not yet expanded beyond a screen and Apple does not have full foldable ‌iPhone‌ prototypes in its labs. Like other companies ’foldable smartphones, a foldable“ iPhone ”would allow Apple to create a larger screen in a package that can still be pocketed.

Apple has discussed several foldable screen sizes, including one that unfolds to a size similar to the 6.7-inch screen of the iPhone 12 Pro Max. Apple’s designs are said to have a “mostly invisible hinge” with electronics located behind the screen instead of two panels separated by a visible hinge.

Bloomberg suggests that the foldable “PiPhone‌” is likely to be “years old” or that it will “finally never be introduced,” with most of Apple focused on the updates to its flagship iPhone and iPad coming in 2021.

The iPhone 13 models planned for this year are not expected to feature major design changes, as the 2020 iPhone models meant a significant overhaul of technology and design. Apple engineers are said to consider the 2021 iPhones as an “S” version of the 2020 models. Apple used the “S” nomenclature in the past in years when the “iPhone” models had more minor upgrades.

While design changes are expected to be minor, Apple is testing a Touch ID fingerprint reader on the screen that would mean a major change in the biometric systems Apple has used for flagship devices since its launch. ‘iPhone‌ X.

The fingerprint sensor would be available in addition to Face ID and would be convenient for iPhone users who cannot unlock their iPhones with facial recognition when wearing masks.

Apple has also considered removing the charging port of some models ‌iPhone‌ in favor of wireless charging, and it seems that it is still on the table of iPhones 2021 at this time.

BloombergToday’s report also confirms that AirTags is expected to launch in 2021 and reiterates rumors of the iPad Pro suggesting that Apple is working on an upgraded version with a mini-LED display and a faster processor.