In a significant shift within Apple’s product strategy, recent reports suggest that the tech giant is working towards releasing a foldable 18.8-inch iPad by 2028. Insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman shed light on Apple’s ambitious goals, revealing that prototypes developed by their industrial design team feature what is described as a “nearly invisible crease.” This advancement suggests a potential merging of the iPad and MacBook experiences, marking Apple’s most innovative leap since the introduction of the initial iPad in 2010.
Rumors of a folding iPad have swirled for years, indicating a persistent interest within Apple to innovate. Speculation points to the possibility of a smaller version being introduced as early as 2026, which ties into a broader trend in the tech industry toward larger, multifunctional devices. The concept of a foldable device capable of providing a dual-screen experience could redefine how users interact with their technology, creating an entirely new ecosystem of applications and functionalities.
Gurman’s report indicates that iPadOS may evolve to support more robust functionalities, potentially allowing it to run popular macOS applications natively by 2028. This idea not only advances the iPad’s appeal but also hints at an integrated user experience that blurs the lines between Apple’s computing devices. If users can seamlessly run macOS apps alongside traditional iPad applications, it enhances the device’s versatility, making it an enticing option for both casual users and professionals.
The current pricing of the 13-inch iPad Pro starts at $1,299, and with the introduction of a larger device, there is speculation on how Apple could position its pricing strategy. By offering a foldable iPad that can run macOS applications, Apple might alleviate concerns regarding value, providing consumers with more bang for their buck in terms of functionality.
Adding fuel to the discussion of foldable devices, Gurman notes that Apple is also pursuing a foldable iPhone, although it is expected to release sometime after 2026. The notion of a foldable iPhone has elicited excitement across the tech community, as it could potentially revolutionize smartphone design. A successful implementation of foldable technology in the iPhone line could create a pathway for an entirely new form factor that maximizes screen space while minimizing bulk.
To complement these advancements, Apple’s planned display roadmap proposes the integration of OLED technology across its MacBook lineup. With an OLED MacBook Pro scheduled for 2026, followed by an OLED update for the MacBook Air in 2027, it’s clear that Apple aims to enhance its product capabilities further while keeping pace with emerging display technologies.
As Apple embarks on this journey towards developing foldable devices, the implications for both hardware innovation and user experience are profound. The merging of iPad and Mac features could usher in a transformative era for Apple’s product ecosystem, where versatility and functionality reign supreme. With anticipated developments in both the iPad and iPhone lines, Apple continues to pave the way for the future of personal technology. The prospect of foldable devices not only demonstrates Apple’s commitment to innovation but also illustrates how they plan to adapt to changing consumer demands in an increasingly competitive market.