In an exciting development for technology enthusiasts, Apple is reportedly working on a variety of innovative foldable devices, including a much-anticipated iPhone Fold and a larger foldable device measuring around 19 inches. Analysts suggest that these devices could make their debut as early as late next year, coinciding with the launch of Apple's rumored foldable iPhone.
Jeff Pu, the lead analyst at GF Securities, recently shared insights in a research note that outlines potential post-tariff scenarios for Apple. According to Pu, both the 18.8-inch and 7.8-inch foldable devices are making significant strides in development. He forecasts that these devices will enter mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026. Last month, Pu highlighted that Apple's initial two foldable devices have recently entered the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, a crucial step in the product development lifecycle.
The timeline for these devices suggests they could launch either late next year or sometime in 2027, depending on when mass production begins in the latter half of 2026.
Industry insiders like Mark Gurman from Bloomberg have posited that Apple is also developing a foldable iPad with a 20-inch display, expected to hit the market in 2028. On the other hand, analyst Ross Young anticipates a foldable tablet-like device to be released between 2026 and 2027. This discrepancy indicates a level of uncertainty regarding launch dates and product specifications.
Moreover, there are varying perspectives on what the larger foldable device will entail. Jeff Pu suggests that this device could be a hybrid between a MacBook and an iPad, featuring a touch-based screen and compatibility with macOS. Ming-Chi Kuo, another prominent Apple analyst, has similarly referred to the larger foldable as a MacBook, while Ross Young has mentioned an 18.8-inch display for a potential notebook. Conversely, the Wall Street Journal reported in December that Apple is indeed working on a 19-inch MacBook with a foldable screen.
In the ongoing debate about whether this large-screen foldable device will be classified as an iPad or a MacBook, the decision largely hinges on the operating system that Apple intends to implement. If the device runs on macOS, it will belong to the Mac family; however, if it operates on iPadOS, it will be categorized under the iPad family.
Furthermore, Gurman has indicated that design updates in iOS 19 and macOS 16 aim to unify the operating systems, potentially paving the way for the introduction of foldable devices and touchscreen Macs. This opens the possibility for a hybrid device that could leverage the best features of both operating systems.
As the industry eagerly awaits the launch of the foldable iPhone, speculation about its features continues to grow. Early rumors suggest that this device will incorporate advanced technology and unique functionalities that set it apart from traditional smartphones. With Apple’s commitment to innovation, the foldable iPhone is expected to push the boundaries of mobile technology.
In conclusion, Apple’s foray into foldable technology signals a significant shift in the tech landscape. With both a foldable iPhone and a larger foldable device on the horizon, consumers and industry experts alike are keenly observing how these products will evolve and ultimately reshape user experiences.
