Apple is developing a vapor chamber for improved cooling in the upcoming iPad Pro expected by 2027, exploring ads in Apple Maps, and facing development challenges with an 18-inch foldable iPad; the company also released updates to its M5 product line.
Apple's ultra-thin iPhone Air has underperformed with weak sales leading to significant production cuts, while its foldable iPad faces delays and engineering challenges, reflecting difficulties in new hardware innovations amid high costs and technical hurdles.
Apple's highly anticipated 18-inch foldable iPad has been delayed until 2029 and could cost up to $3,900, reflecting significant development and manufacturing challenges.
Apple's ambitious plan to launch a foldable iPad with an 18-inch screen has faced significant development challenges related to weight, display technology, and cost, potentially delaying its release to 2029 or later, amid broader efforts to innovate in the tablet market.
A foldable iPhone is expected to be released in 2026, followed by a foldable iPad in 2028, indicating Apple's upcoming focus on flexible display technology.
Apple has paused development on a larger foldable iPad due to manufacturing challenges, high costs, and modest demand, while continuing to develop a foldable iPhone expected to launch next year. The foldable iPad, rumored to be between 18.8 and 20.2 inches with OLED technology, may be revisited in the future when display tech becomes more affordable.
iPadOS 26 introduces major productivity enhancements and a new windowing system, making it ideal for a future larger, foldable iPad with an 18.8-inch screen, expected around 2026 or 2028, which would greatly expand multitasking capabilities.
Apple is reportedly exploring the idea of creating foldable iPads, but has yet to overcome the challenge of creating a crease-free folding display. Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman suggests that Apple may abandon the concept if it cannot resolve this issue. While a Korean news outlet has reported that a foldable Apple device may arrive in the first half of 2027, the company is facing difficulties in achieving a crease-free foldable screen. This obstacle, along with concerns about dust resistance and the quality of folding screens, may impact the future of Apple's foldable iPad.
Apple is reportedly exploring the launch of AR glasses and a foldable iPad in 2027, according to a product roadmap shared by Samsung Securities. However, the development of these products faces challenges, including the need for advanced chip technology and lightweight design. The company is also working on addressing the pricing of its current headset, with a low-cost model expected in 2025. The launch of the AR glasses might be further delayed as Apple aims to perfect the technology and address potential setbacks.
Apple is reportedly working on two foldable iPhone prototypes, as well as a foldable iPad, in an effort to catch up with the foldable market. The prototypes are clamshell-type devices similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, and the company is focused on addressing the fragility and crease issues associated with foldable devices. While the foldable iPhones may not be released for at least another two years, the foldable iPads are more likely to debut sooner to gauge consumer interest. Apple is also exploring ways to differentiate its foldable devices with compelling features before committing to a major release.
Apple has reportedly created two clamshell-style foldable iPhone prototypes, but the development is still in the early stages and the devices likely won't come to market until at least 2026. Technical issues and creating compelling features for consumers are the main challenges, along with the need to make the device as thin as a regular iPhone when folded. Apple's first foldable device may be an iPad, which would carry less risk for the company, but engineers are still working on solutions for challenges such as the crease in the display and ensuring a flat screen when opened.
Apple is reportedly actively developing prototypes for a foldable clamshell iPhone and an 8-inch folding iPad, with at least two active models in progress. The foldable iPhone is still in early development, and Apple has faced challenges in meeting its design standards, including creating a thinner device when folded and reducing the crease in the display. The company has also explored the possibility of screens facing outwards when the device is closed. While the project may be cancelled if these challenges cannot be overcome, Apple has shifted focus to an inward folding iPad, about the size of an iPad mini, with less stringent durability requirements. The release of a foldable iPhone is not expected for the iPhone 16 and 17, and a previously planned 2025 launch may also be delayed.
Samsung Display is reorganizing its business teams to prepare for future orders of foldable iPhones and iPads from Apple. The company, which is currently ahead of its competitors in OLED displays, wants to leverage its expertise in manufacturing foldable displays for Samsung devices to secure Apple's foldable business. However, Apple is not expected to launch a foldable device until at least 2025, according to display analyst Ross Young.
Apple is reportedly in "intensive development" of a foldable iPad and could announce it as early as late 2024 or early 2025. The company has been working on foldable products for four years and is now focusing on the iPad before the iPhone. Apple is working with suppliers to finalize the design and address concerns about the device's panel and hinges, particularly the display creasing. Mass production is expected to begin in 2025, potentially boosting iPad shipments and global tablet sales.
Apple is reportedly considering the release of a foldable iPad, according to sources from the upstream supply chain. This aligns with previous rumors and predictions from analysts. A foldable iPad would feature a hinge that allows for a larger display when unfolded, potentially positioning it above the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Apple has yet to release any devices with foldable displays, but rumors suggest they are exploring various options, including foldable iPhones and Macs. The plans are still in the research and development stage, and it remains to be seen if any of these devices will be released.