An 18.8-inch foldable iPad with a ‘nearly invisible’ crease may be coming in 2028.
Apple is reportedly inching closer to a revolutionary leap in tablet technology with a foldable iPad that could redefine the market. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter, Apple aims to release an 18.8-inch foldable iPad by 2028. This futuristic device is expected to deliver a seamless experience with a nearly invisible crease, effectively resembling “two iPad Pros placed side-by-side.”
While rumors of a foldable iPad have circulated for years, Gurman’s report adds weight to the speculation with intriguing new details. Let’s delve into what Apple might have in store for the future of tablets and hybrid devices.
Crease-Free Innovation: Apple’s Design Breakthrough
Apple’s industrial design team appears to have achieved a significant milestone—creating prototypes of foldable iPads with a barely visible crease. This development addresses one of the most persistent criticisms of foldable screens, as noticeable creases have been a sticking point for existing foldable devices on the market. By prioritizing a flawless display experience, Apple seems poised to set a new standard for foldable technology.
Gurman’s description of the foldable iPad as akin to “two iPad Pros side-by-side” hints at its enormous screen real estate. With an 18.8-inch foldable display, this device would provide unmatched versatility, blurring the line between tablets and laptops. Imagine using it for immersive multitasking, high-quality video editing, or expansive gaming experiences—all with the sleek form factor Apple is known for.
The Evolution of iPadOS: A Step Towards macOS
The introduction of this foldable iPad might coincide with a major evolution of Apple’s iPadOS. Gurman speculates that by 2028, iPadOS could become advanced enough to run macOS applications, offering users a hybrid experience. This move could align with Apple’s broader strategy to unify its ecosystem, as Macs already support iPhone and iPad apps.
By allowing macOS apps to run on the foldable iPad, Apple could dramatically enhance its value proposition. For professionals and power users, the ability to switch seamlessly between iPadOS and macOS applications would turn the device into a productivity powerhouse. This hybrid approach may appeal to creative professionals, developers, and anyone seeking a single device that merges the best of both worlds.
A Peek at the Price Tag
However, innovation often comes with a hefty price. The current 13-inch iPad Pro starts at $1,299, so a foldable model nearly twice its size could come with an eye-watering price tag. Still, the ability to run macOS apps might soften the financial blow, making the foldable iPad a compelling investment for power users.
Foldable iPads vs. Foldable iPhones: What Comes First?
While Apple’s foldable iPad could debut around 2028, Gurman’s report also touches on the long-rumored foldable iPhone. According to him, a foldable iPhone remains in the works but isn’t expected before 2026 at the earliest. Apple seems to be taking a cautious approach, refining the technology and waiting for market readiness.
The foldable iPad might serve as a testing ground for foldable technology, allowing Apple to iron out design and engineering challenges before introducing foldable capabilities to its flagship iPhone lineup.
Display Roadmap: OLED and Beyond
The foldable iPad isn’t the only display innovation Apple has in the pipeline. Gurman’s sources align with a recently leaked internal display roadmap, which outlines several upcoming milestones. These include:
- OLED MacBook Pros in 2026
- A MacBook Air OLED update in 2027
- The anticipated 18.8-inch foldable iPad by 2028
Apple’s gradual adoption of OLED technology underscores its commitment to enhancing display quality across its product range. As the foldable iPad prepares to join this lineup, it’s clear that Apple is charting a bold path forward in display innovation.
What Does This Mean for Apple’s Future?
If the foldable iPad delivers on its promises, it could redefine the tablet market and establish a new product category altogether. By combining cutting-edge design, expansive display capabilities, and the power to run macOS apps, Apple could create a device that appeals to both casual users and professionals alike.
While 2028 might feel far off, Apple’s meticulous approach to innovation suggests that the wait will be worth it. As foldable devices become more mainstream, Apple’s entry into this space could set a new benchmark for what’s possible. Until then, the tech world will undoubtedly keep speculating about what the foldable future holds for Apple and its loyal users.
Stay tuned for more updates as Apple’s bold vision for foldable devices unfolds.
