During the last years, Numerous rumors have circulated about the possible arrival of a foldable iPad developed by Apple.The company was expected to take a step forward in the foldable device segment, introducing a large-format tablet that could fold and function like a laptop. However, new reports have confirmed that the project has been temporarily put on hold, for reasons ranging from technical challenges to market issues.
Apple's push into the foldable device market was seen as the next evolutionary leap after the launch of the iPad Pro and advances in OLED displays. The idea of ​​an iPad that can fold and take on a MacBook-like appearance, with a large, flexible screen, generated enormous excitement from the start among fans and analysts. But for now, the wait will continue.
Why Apple has decided to pause its foldable iPad
According to an analysis by DigiTimes, Apple would have been forced to halting the development of the foldable iPad due to various technical and financial issuesOne of the main obstacles lies in the manufacturing of the flexible display: achieving a large panel, without visible folds and guaranteeing the brand's usual quality, poses complex engineering challenges and a considerable increase in costs.
Leaks indicate that the device in development would have a screen between 18,8 and 20,3 inches, with OLED technology and a design designed to minimize or eliminate any fold marks. The team aimed to overcome the current problems of other foldables already on the market, such as creasing or premature hinge wear. But the rate of defective components and the increased cost of the production process have been decisive in the temporary suspension of the project.
Beyond the technical complications, The actual demand for large-format foldable devices remains very limited.Apple has studied market behavior and found that tablet-laptop hybrids of this type have yet to convince most consumers. The high expected price, which could put the foldable iPad at over €2.500 at launch, is also not helping to stimulate general interest.
An ambitious concept that will have to wait
Apple envisioned this product as a solution for those looking for a versatile device, capable of transforming from tablet to laptopRumors pointed to an aluminum chassis, advanced cameras, full integration with the brand's own accessories, and software that would combine the best of iPadOS and macOS.
However, the aforementioned difficulties and the current context have led the company to be cautious and halt development until the technology maturesThe decision is mainly due to Technological challenges, costs and limited demandApple prefers not to rush into releasing a product that fails to meet its strict standards of quality and user experience.
There is, therefore, no definitive date for the resumption of this project. Initial forecasts placed the possible release of the foldable iPad between 2026 and 2028, although with recent events the wait could be even longer.
Apple prioritizes foldable iPhone over larger foldables
Meanwhile, Apple's strategy seems to focus on developing its first foldable iPhone. According to various leaks and sources close to the sector, the company is already working on prototypes of a smartphone with a flexible screen, whose presentation could take place in 2026 alongside the iPhone 18. For more details on foldable products, you can consult our Comparison of rumors and predictions for the foldable iPad.
This change of focus is due to the fact that Foldable phone market shows increased dynamism and acceptance by the public, unlike larger foldable models. The foldable iPhone, which would seek to compete directly with the Galaxy Z Fold and other established models, would also benefit from a more affordable cost architecture and more proven flexible panel technology in small formats.
Apple remains cautious as usual and does not rule out recovering the foldable iPad project in the future, if the Technology and demand are evolving favorably.
While the arrival of Apple's foldable iPad will have to wait, the work done so far suggests the idea hasn't been completely ruled out. The decision to pause the project is primarily due to technological factors, cost, and a lack of clear demand. The company is focusing its resources on launching its first foldable iPhone, so we'll be keeping an eye on its Evolution in the foldable phone market.
