Apple is reportedly working on not just a foldable iPhone but also a larger foldable device-potentially around 18.8 inches—that could enter mass production by late 2026. This device, alongside the rumored iPhone “Fold,” may mark Apple’s ambitious entry into the foldable market, competing with Samsung, Huawei, and other tech giants.
Apple’s Foldable Device: What We Know So Far
According to Jeff Pu, a lead analyst at GF Securities, Apple has made significant progress in developing two foldable devices:
- A 7.8-inch foldable iPhone (likely a direct competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series).
- An 18.8-inch foldable device, which could be a MacBook-iPad hybrid.
Pu suggests that both devices are in the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, with mass production expected to begin in Q4 2026. Depending on production timelines, Apple may launch these devices in late 2026 or early 2027.
Conflicting Reports on Apple’s Large Foldable Device
While Pu and other analysts believe the 18.8-inch foldable device will be a MacBook-iPad hybrid, other sources have differing opinions:
- Mark Gurman (Bloomberg): Claims Apple is working on a 20-inch foldable iPad set for release in 2028.
- Ross Young (Display Analyst): Predicts a foldable tablet-like device in 2026 or 2027.
- Ming-Chi Kuo (Apple Analyst): Refers to the device as a foldable MacBook.
- The Wall Street Journal: Reported in December 2025 that Apple is developing a 19-inch MacBook with a foldable screen.
Will It Be a MacBook or an iPad?
The key factor determining whether Apple’s large foldable device is a Mac or an iPad lies in its operating system:
- If it runs macOS: It will likely be marketed as a foldable MacBook.
- If it runs iPadOS: It will be positioned as a large-screen foldable iPad.
Gurman has hinted that iPadOS 19 and macOS 16 may include design updates to bridge the gap between iPad and Mac, possibly paving the way for a hybrid device.
Why Apple’s Foldable MacBook-iPad Hybrid Could Be a Game-Changer
If Apple successfully merges macOS with touchscreen capabilities, the 18.8-inch foldable device could revolutionize productivity and portability:
- Seamless Transition Between Laptop & Tablet Modes: Users could switch between a full macOS experience and a touch-friendly iPadOS-like interface.
- Enhanced Multitasking: A large foldable display would allow for split-screen workflows, making it ideal for professionals.
- Competitive Edge Against Microsoft & Samsung: Microsoft’s Surface Duo and Samsung’s Flex series have explored foldables, but Apple’s integration of hardware and software could set a new benchmark.
When Can We Expect Apple’s Foldable Devices?
While rumors suggest a late 2026 mass production timeline, launch dates remain uncertain:
- Foldable iPhone (7.8-inch): Likely to debut in 2026.
- 18.8-inch Foldable MacBook/iPad: Could arrive in late 2026 or 2027.
- 20-inch Foldable iPad (Gurman’s Prediction): Expected in 2028.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s 18.8-inch foldable device could redefine the future of convertible laptops and tablets. Whether it’s a MacBook, iPad, or a hybrid, Apple’s entry into the foldable market will be a major milestone in tech innovation.
Stay tuned for more updates as Apple moves closer to mass production in late 2026!
Source: Macrumors
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