Foldable iPad: Minimal crease, compatibility with macOS apps, set to launch in 2028.

Apple is anticipated to introduce foldable devices in the near future, but true to its nature, the company will take its time. This approach embodies what many refer to as the “Apple way”: the brand only unveils products or features when it believes it can offer a unique version that surpasses existing options in the market.

Apple has a strong track record of accuracy in its predictions and often sets the industry standard, with competitors following suit. For instance, recent reports suggest that a foldable iPhone could be the catalyst needed for market revitalization, as current offerings from companies like Samsung and Huawei have not sufficiently boosted sales.

Two recent reports indicate that the foldable iPhone is indeed under development, alongside a foldable iPad/Mac hybrid. This latter device was mentioned in a leaked roadmap, hinting at a potential launch in 2028.

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has provided additional insights into this large foldable device, discussing its screen design and the operating system that may power this innovative tablet.

Apple is targeting a 2028 release for its foldable iPad, according to the latest insights from a Power On report.

Gurman revealed that Apple’s design team is developing a device that resembles a large iPad, capable of unfolding to the dimensions of two iPad Pros placed side by side. The company has been dedicated to this project for several years, with a key objective being to remove the crease that is typically visible in current foldable devices. While no Android phone manufacturer has successfully eradicated the crease, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold SE is reportedly the closest to achieving a creaseless design, with the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 expected to adopt this innovation. Previous reports suggested that Apple’s dissatisfaction with existing foldable screen technology is largely due to the crease issue. However, Gurman notes that Apple is making strides in this area. A prototype of the foldable iPad features a nearly imperceptible crease, but it remains uncertain if Apple will be able to eliminate it entirely.

The anticipated device is expected to feature a display nearing 20 inches. Gurman highlights the previously leaked 18.8-inch screen size, which was also referenced in last week’s OLED panel roadmap, where the foldable iPad was mentioned.

Gurman further discussed the operating system Apple might select for this device, indicating uncertainty about the direction Apple will take. He speculates that a version of iPadOS will likely be utilized, but the foldable iPad won’t be a complete iPad-Mac hybrid. However, it’s possible that by then, iPadOS could evolve sufficiently to support macOS applications.

For years, I’ve wished that Apple’s inaugural foldable iPad/Mac would integrate iPadOS and macOS or offer a dual-boot option to maximize the benefits of both systems. Gurman’s insights suggest this may not be the case, as Apple seems intent on encouraging customers to purchase multiple products.

Additionally, Gurman mentions that a foldable iPhone is projected to debut in 2026 at the earliest, a few years ahead of the foldable iPad. This aligns with previous reports from DSCC experts, who indicated that Apple plans to enter the foldable phone market in 2026.

In a related note, The Wall Street Journal reported that Apple aims to launch a foldable iPhone as early as 2026 to drive growth.

The same report also refers to a larger foldable device designed to function as a laptop, featuring a screen size of approximately 19 inches. While the WSJ does not provide a timeline for the foldable iPad, it mentions that both devices have been in development for several years. Apple has faced significant challenges, particularly concerning the hinge and display cover.