Apple is preparing to venture into the foldable device market with plans to begin mass production of an 18.8-inch foldable device in the fourth quarter of 2026, according to analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities.
The large-screen foldable device is expected to launch either in late 2026 or early 2027, alongside a smaller 7.8-inch foldable iPhone. Both devices have reportedly entered the New Product Introduction phase at Foxconn, Apple's manufacturing partner.
Industry experts remain divided on the exact nature of the larger foldable device. Some analysts suggest it will be a MacBook-iPad hybrid featuring a touch screen and macOS support, while others believe it could be strictly an iPad running iPadOS. The final categorization will likely depend on which operating system Apple chooses to implement.
The upcoming iOS 19 and macOS 16 updates are expected to include design changes that will help unify Apple's operating systems, potentially paving the way for these innovative foldable devices.
The 18.8-inch screen size would make this device substantially larger than current iPads, potentially offering new possibilities for multitasking and creative applications. When folded, the device could be comparable to two iPad Pros placed side by side.
While some industry watchers, including Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, have suggested a later release timeline around 2028, Pu maintains his prediction of a late 2026 production start based on supply chain information.
If Apple proceeds with launching both foldable devices simultaneously, it would mark an unprecedented move in the industry, as no major manufacturer has yet released foldable smartphones and tablets at the same time.
The tech giant's entry into the foldable market represents a major expansion of its product lineup, though Apple is known for taking its time to perfect new technologies before bringing them to market.