TECH NEWS – Apple wants to release another foldable device first, which has caused this project to become less important.
Rumors have circulated for some time that Apple is working on two foldable devices, and a new rumor provides further details on the products’ launch timing. The smaller iPhone Fold is still on track for a 2026 launch. However, the larger 18.8-inch foldable device, which is envisioned as a MacBook-iPad hybrid, will likely miss its original 2026 production timeline and be pushed back to 2027.
According to Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities, Apple had planned to start mass producing its two foldable models in the fourth quarter of 2026, coinciding with the anticipated release of the iPhone 18 Fold. Pu says that, although the supply chain for the smaller foldable device remains unchanged, development of the 18.8-inch device has been postponed; therefore, mass production is unlikely to begin in 2026.
It’s unclear whether the larger device will be an iPad or a MacBook. However, earlier rumors suggest that the device will run macOS instead of iPadOS, pointing to the latter possibility. However, the industry remains divided on whether the two devices could be a hybrid with macOS touchscreen control. Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and The Wall Street Journal refer to the device as a MacBook, but research firm Omdia and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman believe it will be a foldable iPad that will hit store shelves in 2028 at the earliest.
The operating system that Apple chooses for the device will determine its capabilities, because we know that the device will be equipped with powerful hardware capable of running both systems. Gurman previously stated that the redesign of iOS 26 Liquid Glass is a step toward an all-glass, foldable experience. Pu also believes that development of the iPhone Fold is progressing smoothly. According to the supply chain, the device is expected to launch next year.
The delay of the larger foldable device could be a good sign for Apple because it allows the smaller version to establish itself and conquer the market before the larger one is released. The design will be fairly simple. It will resemble a MacBook on the outside, but the lid can open 180 degrees to provide a full tablet experience.
Leave a Reply