More and more rumors indicate that Apple may have plans to release foldable devices in the future. The first two examples are expected in 2026. These would be an iPhone and a hybrid iPad/Mac.
Especially the latter is interesting, because it would be the first time that Apple combines two devices into one. How that will look in practice is still a guess, but it is possible that this Apple device consists of two touch panels that fully unfolded show an iPad and half unfolded a Mac.
Apple’s foldable devices
In recent years, several manufacturers have released foldable devices. Think of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold / Flip, Google Pixel Fold or the OnePlus Open. When this product category was launched, there were still some problems and obstacles, but foldable smartphones are getting better and it seems that Apple may also make the switch.
Buildable iPhone
Foldable iPhone or not, that is the question. In recent years, there have been quite a few rumors about this type of iPhone, but there are no real clear indications yet. The company is said to be testing multiple prototypes, but the screen quality is a concern.
In late July, news broke that Apple had signed a display supply contract for its first foldable iPhoneThe device is said to feature a top-down folding design, similar to a Galaxy Flip.
Because Apple is still testing, anonymous sources claim to Ming-Chi Kuo that the foldable iPhone uses silver nanowire technology. This allows the screen to bend at multiple points without compromising quality and durability. This is because thin silver wires on a nanostructure are used. This technology is not new, it is already used in rollable TVs and Apple itself also uses it in the display of the HomePod.
Hybrid iPad and Mac that folds
Apple may see a future in foldable devices that are not smartphones. For example, there are reportedly plans to launch a combination of an iPad and a Mac. There is talk of a device with a 20.3-inch or 18.8-inch unfolded screen that looks like a 15-inch or 13-inch Macbook when folded.
You can then use the Mac as an iPad thanks to the touchscreen, but also as a Mac. Whether the device will then have an integrated on-screen keyboard or a physical copy with a trackpad is still unclear. In addition, the hybrid iPad/Mac could possibly be the first device with an M5 chip.
Buildable iPad
If we are to believe the rumors, Apple is busy developing a new iPad mini and it promises to look different than you would initially expect. The iPad mini may be foldable.
For years there have been rumors about a foldable product from Apple. First the iPhone would be equipped with a foldable version, but according to sources to The Elec Apple is also said to be busy developing a foldable iPad mini.
Expected in 2026
A new report from analyst Jeff Pu suggests that the foldable iPhone and Mac/iPad are on track for release in 2026. We could potentially see Apple’s first foldable devices by the end of that year. Mind you, that’s still a long way off and there’s a good chance it’ll be delayed further.