Apple regularly develops new technologies that change the market. Now there are indications of a foldable device with an 18.8-inch display. Experts are divided as to whether it will be an iPad or a MacBook. A prototype is said to already exist and be equipped with Face ID under the display.
Several reports from the supply chain and analysts show that Apple is working hard on a foldable device. The display size was initially given as around 20 inches, but sources now say it will be exactly 18.76 inches. Apple would probably round this number up to 18.8 inches. The idea of a foldable display is not new, but Apple is being cautious about its implementation. Important questions concern the operating system, the possible keyboard and general user-friendliness. There is also speculation about a new Face ID technology that is said to be integrated under the display.
Foldable iPad or MacBook – what is known?
Display analyst Ross Young was the first to report on a foldable 20.x-inch display that could be intended for a MacBook. The screen size was later reduced to 18.8 inches. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also confirmed that Apple is working on a large foldable display. Jeff Pu also provided hints about the device, but could not say for sure whether it would be an iPad or a MacBook. Current developments show that Apple is experimenting with a device that consists mainly of a screen. This would point more towards an iPad, because a foldable MacBook would need either a physical keyboard or a very sophisticated solution for a softkey keyboard. A MacBook with a touch keyboard would be technically feasible, but poses major challenges. Apple would have to solve three problems:
- The keyboard should be comfortable to use
- Typing should feel as realistic as possible
- The touch keyboard should offer a sensible alternative to the physical keyboard
Patents from recent years show that Apple is working on solutions. But the question remains whether the technology is mature enough yet.
Face ID under the display
Leaker Digital Chat Station reports that there is already a prototype in which Face ID is integrated under the display. Apple has already filed several patents for such a solution and, according to current reports, has solved the biggest technical problem (via Weibo). Face ID under the display would have clear advantages:
- No more notch or dynamic island needed
- More space for the display
- Better integration into future designs
If this prototype proves to be true, Apple could also use the technology for the iPhone in the future.
A hybrid device with macOS and iPadOS?
Some analysts speculate that Apple is working on a device that supports both operating systems. This would be a new device category that combines the iPad and MacBook. However, Apple has repeatedly stressed that macOS and iPadOS were developed for different purposes. A hybrid device would mean a change in strategy. Nevertheless, there are reports that Apple is testing various concepts internally. Whether the foldable device will be an iPad or a MacBook remains to be seen. The indications at the moment point more towards an iPad, but Apple could still make changes.
Apple is testing a foldable device – iPad Pro or something new?
Apple is apparently developing a foldable device with an 18.8-inch display. The exact product category is unclear, but there are indications that it could be an iPad Pro. At the same time, there are rumors of Face ID technology under the display, which Apple could possibly use soon. Whether Apple is creating a new product category with this device or further developing existing devices will only become clear in the next few years. Until then, it remains to be seen which technology Apple will actually bring to market. (Photo by Unsplash+ / Getty Images)
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