A bold new chapter for Apple’s product lineup could be just around the corner. Reports are heating up around a massive foldable iPad, potentially set to debut in 2026. If true, this would mark Apple’s first step into the foldable device space, with a screen size that stretches up to an eye-catching 18.8 inches when fully opened.
The report comes from analyst Jeff Pu, who suggests not one but two foldable Apple devices are in the works. According to Pu’s research note, Apple is preparing both a folding iPhone with a 7.8-inch display and the much larger iPad Fold. Both models are reportedly targeting mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026, which could place them on shelves soon after if Apple follows its usual hardware release cadence.
While Pu’s projections have stirred excitement, they clash with more conservative timelines shared by other sources. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has presented a very different outlook. According to him, Apple’s foldable iPad is still deep in development and might not hit the market until 2028. Gurman describes the device as an ambitious project, with Apple engineers aiming for a screen that unfolds to the size of two iPad Pros placed side by side. He adds that the company has been refining this concept for several years but isn’t rushing it.
The differing timelines from Pu and Gurman have sparked debate within the tech world. Pu initially mentioned these devices in mid-2023 and has now reaffirmed his prediction, potentially based on updated supply chain insights. Meanwhile, Gurman remains cautious, emphasizing Apple’s design precision and long testing cycles before release.
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If Pu’s timeline proves accurate, the industry can expect early leaks, prototype sightings, and more insider reports in the months ahead. If Gurman is correct, however, Apple fans may need to hold on for a few more years before seeing the tech giant enter the foldable arena.
Either way, these discussions suggest Apple is seriously exploring foldable technology, even if the official launch is still a few steps away. The idea of a folding iPad with an expansive display is already fueling speculation about future use cases, from immersive content creation to new forms of mobile productivity.
