Apple is reportedly developing a groundbreaking foldable iPad, slated for release around 2028, according to insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This ambitious project aims to create a near-seamless 18.8-inch display, effectively merging two iPad Pros into a single foldable device. Apple’s industrial design team has reportedly overcome the notorious “crease” issue that plagues many foldable devices, achieving prototypes with a nearly invisible fold. This development marks a significant step forward in foldable technology and signals Apple’s intent to revolutionize the tablet and potentially even the laptop market.
The whispers of a foldable iPad have circulated for years, with some rumors pointing to a smaller foldable model launching earlier, possibly in 2026 or 2027. Gurman’s recent report echoes previous predictions of a larger, 20-inch foldable device, initially envisioned as a hybrid between an iPad and a MacBook. While the current 18.8-inch version isn’t explicitly designated as a macOS device, it’s anticipated to blur the lines between iPadOS and macOS, incorporating elements from both operating systems. By 2028, Gurman suggests, iPadOS should have evolved sufficiently to support macOS applications, effectively bridging the gap between tablet and laptop functionalities.
This convergence of operating systems reflects a broader trend in Apple’s ecosystem. The current ability of Macs to run iPhone and iPad apps hints at the potential for reciprocal functionality, where iPads could seamlessly run macOS apps. This cross-platform compatibility would significantly enhance the value proposition of a larger, more expensive foldable iPad. Considering the $1,299 starting price of the 13-inch iPad Pro, a foldable device double the size would likely command a premium price. The ability to run macOS apps would justify this higher cost, transforming the foldable iPad into a true productivity powerhouse, capable of handling both tablet-centric tasks and more demanding desktop applications.
The development of this foldable iPad aligns with a purported internal Apple roadmap detailing the company’s display technology strategy. This roadmap, which has recently surfaced, corroborates the 18.8-inch foldable iPad project and outlines Apple’s plans to introduce OLED displays to its MacBook lineup. According to this roadmap, OLED MacBook Pros are anticipated in 2026, followed by an OLED MacBook Air in 2027. These developments collectively indicate Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of display technology across its product portfolio, from tablets to laptops.
While the foldable iPad remains the focal point of these rumors, a foldable iPhone is also reportedly in development, although its release is not expected before 2026 at the earliest. This aligns with other rumors suggesting that Apple is cautiously exploring the foldable phone market, prioritizing a perfected design over a rushed release. The company’s approach underscores its focus on delivering a polished and refined user experience, even if it means lagging behind competitors in adopting the foldable form factor.
In conclusion, Apple’s foray into foldable technology represents a significant shift in its product strategy. The rumored 18.8-inch foldable iPad, with its near-creaseless display and potential for macOS app compatibility, promises to redefine the boundaries between tablets and laptops. Coupled with the projected introduction of OLED displays across the MacBook lineup, these developments paint a picture of an Apple committed to innovation in display technology and poised to reshape the future of mobile computing. The longer timeline for the foldable iPhone suggests a deliberate approach, prioritizing a seamless and refined user experience over a hasty market entry. These ambitious projects underscore Apple’s ongoing quest to push the envelope of technology and deliver cutting-edge devices to its consumers.
