In a recent report, Apple has put to rest all rumors and speculations surrounding the return of Touch ID technology to its flagship iPhone lineup. Despite ongoing rumors, the tech giant has confirmed that the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup will continue to solely feature the popular facial recognition system, Face ID.

Since the launch of the iPhone X in 2017, Apple made a significant shift away from Touch ID and introduced Face ID as a groundbreaking authentication method. The company has remained committed to this technology ever since, with no indications of abandoning it anytime soon.

While the iPhone embraces Face ID, Apple has continued to incorporate Touch ID in some of its other devices. Notably, the iPad mini 6 and iPad Air models still retain the Touch ID system. However, this is mainly offered on the budget variants, as the more premium "Pro" models come equipped with Face ID. According to an integrated circuit expert on Weibo, the discontinuation of Touch ID on the iPhone is mainly due to Apple ceasing the production of chips related to this feature.

Apart from the entry-level iPhone SE lineup, Apple has no plans to reintroduce Touch ID across its mainstream iPhone range. The decision aligns with Apple's ongoing efforts to embed the TrueDepth camera sensors beneath the display, enabling a completely immersive full-screen user experience with Face ID authentication.

Nevertheless, rumors have persisted regarding Apple's potential revival of Touch ID on the iPhone. Speculation has further intensified with reports of the next generation iPhone SE 4 abandoning Touch ID in favor of housing all components necessary for Face ID. This development suggests that Apple may be moving toward either completely phasing out Touch ID or developing an entirely new authentication mechanism.

In exploring the resurrection of Touch ID, Apple is not considering utilizing the Home or Power button for this purpose, as previously speculated. Instead, the company aims to follow in the footsteps of Samsung and other Android smartphone manufacturers by integrating Touch ID directly under the display. However, Apple's approach could differ slightly, as it often adds unique innovations to its implementations. Whether Apple opts for Face ID or Touch ID under the display remains to be seen.

Based on previous reports, Apple's plans for these changes are expected to come into fruition by 2026, with the introduction of the next iPhone iteration. As the source of this information has previously been credible, noted for accurately predicting the iPhone 14's chip configuration, there is some weight to these claims. However, it is essential to remember that the final decision ultimately rests with Apple.

While Apple enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts alike eagerly await further updates on iPhone features, it is clear that Touch ID will not be making a comeback on the flagship lineup anytime soon. Face ID remains the advanced and convenient biometric authentication solution of choice for Apple, promising an enhanced user experience and seamless device unlocking for iPhone users.