Apple is once again poised to reshape the tech landscape. After transforming smartphones with the iPhone and elevating tablets with the iPad, the tech giant is reportedly working on its most ambitious product yet: a foldable iPad.
More than just a flexible screen, this dual-purpose hybrid device could combine the best of both worlds—the sleek portability of a tablet and the robust functionality of a laptop.
A New Form Factor: Foldable iPad Meets MacBook Power
According to respected Apple insider Mark Gurman, prototypes of the foldable iPad are already being developed. Early reports suggest the device will feature an 18.8-inch foldable display, positioning it between the current iPad Pro and the MacBook lineup.
This design would allow the iPad to open into a large, immersive workspace and fold into a more portable size—ideal for work, creativity, and media consumption.
Imagine a seamless fold miming the experience of two iPads placed side by side but without the bulk. A product like this could offer everything from split-screen multitasking to full-sized video editing or document layouts, all while fitting comfortably in a backpack.
The Software Question: iPadOS, macOS, or Something New?
One central question remains: What operating system will power the foldable iPad?
Will it run iPadOS, macOS, or a hybrid of both? Gurman suggests Apple may create a blended experience, offering the touch interface of iPadOS alongside the productivity and app support of macOS.
This flexibility could make the device a game-changer for professionals—allowing users to seamlessly switch from tablet mode to a desktop-like environment, depending on their workflow.
Who Is the Foldable iPad For?
This device could appeal to:
- Creatives who want a large canvas for drawing or editing
- Travelers needing power and portability
- Business users looking for a single device for meetings, work, and play
- Students seeking a flexible alternative to bulky laptops
The foldable iPad could be Apple’s most versatile device yet by combining power, portability, and cutting-edge design.
Release Timeline: When to Expect Apple’s Foldable iPad
The foldable iPad is still in the prototype phase, with industry predictions pointing to a 2026 or 2027 launch. Apple is known for prioritizing polish over speed, which means we’ll likely see a refined, market-ready version after years of testing.
Interestingly, rumours also suggest that a foldable iPhone could debut around the same time, potentially marking 2026 as Apple’s foldable hardware milestone.
Apple’s Foldable Future Is Just Getting Started
Apple’s cautious but visionary approach to foldable devices could set a new industry standard. While competitors like Samsung and Lenovo have already entered the foldable space, Apple is taking its time to deliver something that doesn’t just follow trends but redefines expectations.
If successful, the foldable iPad will be more than just another product launch—it will be a new category of mobile computing.
Final Thoughts
The next natural step is convergence with the iPad and MacBook, which are becoming increasingly powerful and capable. Apple’s rumoured foldable iPad is more than a flexible display—it’s a potential leap forward in how we work, create, and connect on the go.
Whether you’re a digital nomad, an enterprise user, or simply a fan of sleek innovation, this could be Apple’s most exciting product yet. Keep an eye out—2026 could be the year mobile computing changes forever.
