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Apple is working on several foldable devices, but development isn't always going according to plan. While a foldable iPhone model for 2026 is still considered realistic, delays are expected for the larger 18.8-inch device. New analyst estimates indicate that the originally targeted production start of late 2026 won't be met.
Foldable devices are considered the next big device class in the tech sector. Apple, too, no longer wants to leave this market to Samsung and others. Two models are currently being discussed: a foldable iPhone and a larger device that could sit between a MacBook and an iPad. While the supply chain for the iPhone 18 Fold is showing positive signals, the larger model is losing momentum. Analysts and industry observers disagree on how far development has progressed and what type of device it actually involves.
iPhone 18 Fold: Progress in the supply chain
In his recent note to investors, Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities , assumes that the iPhone 18 Fold is still planned for the second half of 2026. He speaks of "unaffected progress" in the supply chain. Production is expected to start as planned, making the launch of a foldable iPhone likely towards the end of 2026. In contrast, Pu is much more cautious about the larger 18.8-inch foldable device. According to his assessment, this device will probably no longer go into production in the fourth quarter of 2026. A market launch is not expected until 2027 at the earliest. He does not give reasons for the delay, but the report overall points to a significant shift in the schedule.
Large folding device: MacBook, iPad, or something in between?
It remains unclear exactly what kind of product the larger folding device is. Analysts and media outlets use different terms and refer to sometimes contradictory information. Pu himself sees the device as a kind of hybrid between a MacBook and an iPad—a foldable computer with a touchscreen that could run on macOS. This would make it more likely to be classified as a MacBook. Ming-Chi Kuo also speaks of a foldable MacBook. Ross Young, in turn, mentions an 18.8-inch Apple notebook that is said to be in the works. The Wall Street Journal reports on a 19-inch MacBook with a foldable display.
Folding device without a fixed category
On the other hand, there are assessments like that of Mark Gurman (Bloomberg), who predicts that Apple will release a foldable iPad with a 20-inch screen in 2028. Market research firm Omdia also predicts an iPad. This leaves the basic classification open. The operating system could ultimately be the deciding factor. If the device runs on macOS, it will belong to the Mac family. If Apple relies on iPadOS, it will be an iPad. A new hybrid approach is also possible – especially given that Apple is working on converging the two systems. Initial steps in this direction can be seen in iOS 26 and macOS "Tahoe," where design adjustments point to cross-platform use. A device that combines both systems would therefore be conceivable.
Innovation in the long term
Pu's analysis also includes an assessment of the near future: He estimates that the iPhone 17 generation will offer only "limited innovations." The focus thus shifts to more long-term developments such as foldable devices. While the smaller model is making progress, many questions remain unanswered regarding the larger model – regarding hardware, software, and timing.
Apple continues to plan – but not everything is going according to plan
Apple remains on the move with foldable devices, but not all plans are running smoothly. The iPhone 18 Fold appears to be still on track and could be released in 2026. However, delays are expected for the larger 18.8-inch device. Whether it ends up being a MacBook, an iPad, or a new hybrid device depends primarily on the operating system used. The technical foundations for this are already being developed – but the finished product probably won't be seen until 2027 or later. (Image: Shutterstock / jestdio)
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