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There have been rumors about foldable iPhones and iPads for years. Until now, these remained mere speculation, but now there's new information that makes a market launch seem realistic. Analyst Jeff Pu reports that Apple is developing foldable devices and that they have already reached a crucial stage. Production is scheduled to begin in 2026, making a market launch possible either in late 2026 or 2027.
Apple often takes its time with new technologies to ensure they're fully developed. While other manufacturers like Samsung and Huawei already sell foldable smartphones, Apple doesn't yet have such a device. But that could soon change. According to Jeff Pu, two foldable Apple devices are in the pipeline. In addition to a foldable iPhone, a foldable iPad is also said to be in development.
Apple's foldable devices: What is known so far
Development and production
Jeff Pu reports that Apple's foldable devices recently reached the so-called New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn. This phase is a key step in development and means that Apple is working on prototypes that are being prepared for later mass production. The first early prototypes are expected to be manufactured as early as April 2025. Mass production itself is planned for the second half of 2026. Depending on whether there are any delays or not, the devices could hit the market either in late 2026 or 2027 (via GF Securities).
What devices will Apple bring out?
Pu has not provided any details about the new products, but there is already speculation about which models Apple is developing:
- A foldable iPhone with an 8-inch internal display. This would be significantly larger than an iPhone Pro Max and could almost reach the size of an iPad when unfolded.
- A foldable iPad with a 19-inch screen. This could function as a hybrid device between a tablet and a laptop and would be larger than any previous iPad.
Why is Apple relying on foldable technology?
Apple's development is likely a response to the stagnating smartphone market. According to Pu, iPhone sales will only grow moderately in 2025. One reason for this is that Apple has postponed some personalized Siri features that were intended to encourage more innovation. Foldable devices could bring new growth in 2026 and, in particular, benefit Foxconn as a manufacturer. Other smartphone manufacturers have been focusing on foldable displays for years. Samsung, Huawei, and other providers have corresponding devices in their product ranges, but Apple could score points with a more sophisticated design and better software integration.
When will the foldable iPhone be released?
Whether the foldable iPhone will be released in 2025 or 2027 depends on when production starts and whether there are any technical challenges. Apple often takes more time than other manufacturers to ensure new products are fully developed. If there are no major development issues, the first foldable iPhone could launch in late 2026.
Foldable iPhones and iPads: Apple's next revolution?
Apple is working on foldable devices, and development has reached a major milestone. A foldable iPhone with an 8-inch display and a foldable iPad with a 19-inch screen could be the company's next big innovations. Production is scheduled to begin in 2026, so a market launch in 2026 or 2027 is realistic. If Apple delivers a high-quality, well-designed device, it could permanently change the foldable smartphone market. (Photo by alexandrbognat / Bigstockphoto)
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