Apple's Foldable iPad: What We Know So Far

by Emily Clarke July 3, 2025

While Apple is making strides toward launching its first foldable iPhone in 2026, the company's plans for a foldable iPad—or potentially a MacBook hybrid—appear to be on a slower track. Here’s a look at everything we know about the rumored foldable iPad.

Multiple Display Sizes in Testing

Apple is reportedly exploring two main foldable sizes:

A large 20-inch foldable display, possibly targeting a dual-use MacBook-iPad hybrid device.
A smaller 7 to 8-inch foldable, potentially replacing the iPad mini.

Some reports suggest the larger display would fold down to around 15.3 inches, while others cite sizes as specific as 18.8 inches or 20.3 inches.

iPad or MacBook?

There’s still uncertainty about whether this foldable device will run iPadOS or macOS. Analysts like Jeff Pu suggest it could be a touchscreen MacBook with macOS, while others expect an extra-large iPad Pro.

Under-the-Hood Technology

Apple is reportedly working with LG and Samsung on the display and hinge mechanisms, aiming to solve issues like screen creasing. The device may also feature:

Under-display Face ID with a metal superstructure lens
A carbon fiber kickstand for durability
OLED or color EPD technology for energy-efficient displays

Development Delays and Market Caution

Despite early rumors of a 2026 release, a Digitimes report suggests that Apple has paused development on the foldable iPad due to:

High production costs
Manufacturing challenges
Weak market demand for large foldables

As a result, more recent predictions place the foldable iPad's launch around 2028—if it launches at all.

Foldable iPhone First

Apple is prioritizing its foldable iPhone, which is reportedly on track for a 2026 debut. The company may wait to see how the market reacts to this device before committing to a larger foldable.

Final Thoughts

The concept of an iPad Fold is exciting—especially given the increasingly desktop-like power of iPadOS 26—but for now, it seems Apple is taking a cautious, measured approach. If the iPhone Fold succeeds, expect the foldable iPad to follow… just not anytime soon.