Apple is reportedly working on a foldable 18.8-inch iPad, aiming for a 2028 release, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The device, described as having a “nearly invisible crease,” would resemble two iPad Pros placed side by side. This ambitious project reflects Apple’s industrial design advancements, with the foldable iPad expected to push the boundaries of tablet innovation by offering a seamless folding display.
Rumors of foldable iPads have circulated for years, with speculation about smaller foldable models potentially arriving in 2026 or 2027. Gurman’s insights also recall his earlier reports of a 20-inch folding iPad/MacBook hybrid, which may combine elements of Macs and iPads. While it won’t likely run macOS outright, Apple is anticipated to advance iPadOS enough by 2028 to support macOS applications, further blurring the line between the two ecosystems.
This development aligns with Apple’s broader ecosystem strategy. Macs currently run iPhone and iPad apps, so enabling iPads to run macOS apps could create a more cohesive cross-platform experience. The 13-inch iPad Pro already starts at $1,299, and offering macOS functionality on a device twice that size could enhance its value proposition, making the high price more palatable to consumers.
Apple is also exploring a foldable iPhone, though Gurman suggests it’s unlikely to debut before 2026. This timeline corresponds with an alleged internal Apple display roadmap that predicts the 18.8-inch foldable iPad, as well as OLED MacBook Pros in 2026 and a MacBook Air OLED update in 2027. These developments hint at Apple’s methodical approach to incorporating foldable and OLED technologies into its product lineup.
Apple’s foldable devices represent a bold step forward in merging portability and performance. The combination of advanced displays, cross-platform app compatibility, and high-end design underscores Apple’s intent to redefine how users interact with tablets and laptops. While the timeline may extend into the latter half of the decade, the potential for a groundbreaking product is evident in these rumors.
