Apple plans foldable iPad: iPad Fold to be released in 2026

Apple could enter two new device categories in the coming years: foldable iPhones and foldable iPads. The so-called iPad Fold is currently in particular focus. One analyst predicts that the first foldable iPad will hit the market as early as 2026. The rumors aren't new, but now they're becoming more concrete.

If you follow Apple, you know that the company is relatively late to new product categories – but with well-thought-out devices. In the case of foldable devices, Apple appears to be pursuing two projects simultaneously: a foldable iPhone and a foldable iPad. What's new is that both could be released in the same year. Analyst Jeff Pu has published his assessment in a report. According to Pu, production of both devices will begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Other sources, such as Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, see things differently. Nevertheless, it's worth checking out the latest information.

Two foldable devices from Apple planned for 2026

According to Jeff Pu, Apple plans to launch two foldable devices in 2026. First, a foldable iPhone with a 7.8-inch display. This iPhone Fold has been reported on several times in the past – you can find out more about it below. However, there is new information about a second device: a foldable iPad with an 18.8-inch display. The iPad Fold would be significantly larger than all previous iPads and could be folded to the size of two iPad Pros placed side by side. It is therefore a device that is strongly geared towards multitasking, productivity, and possibly even creative applications.

Schedule: Mass production from the end of 2026

According to Pu, both devices are expected to enter mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026. This means a market launch is conceivable towards the end of the year or early 2027. Pu's report is based on information from the supply chain, which is normally considered relatively reliable. Interestingly, Pu made this statement back in August 2024 – and has now confirmed it again (via GFS).

Differing assessment by Mark Gurman

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, however, sees the timeline as significantly later. In a December 2024 report, he writes that Apple is working on a particularly large iPad that can be folded side by side like two iPad Pros. The project is already well advanced internally, but the market launch is more likely planned for 2028. Gurman assumes that Apple wants to wait and see the reaction to the foldable iPhone before launching a larger and presumably even more expensive device like the iPad Fold. This cautious strategy would also be more in line with Apple's previous product policy.

Why Jeff Pu is still betting on 2026

Pu's analysis typically considers both supply chain sources and media reports like Gurman's. Nevertheless, he stands by his prediction. Why exactly is unclear. It's possible that Apple is making faster internal progress than originally expected. Or that Apple is testing various prototypes and wants to respond flexibly to the market depending on the development situation.

What this means for you

If Apple does indeed release two foldable devices in 2026, it would be a major step. No major manufacturer has yet launched foldable smartphones and tablets simultaneously. Apple could clearly position itself here and demonstrate how well foldable technology can be integrated into everyday life. For you as a user, this could mean more choice, new form factors, and entirely new application possibilities – such as an iPad that can be transformed into a small MacBook-like device when needed. New possibilities could also arise in app development and multitasking.

Apple's foldable display: Mac or iPad – what's next?

Is the iPad Fold coming sooner than expected?

There are currently two different predictions: Jeff Pu expects the iPad Fold to launch in 2026. Mark Gurman sees the market launch in 2028. Both statements are based on reputable sources, but differ significantly. The only thing that is certain is that Apple is working on a foldable iPad. When exactly it will arrive remains to be seen. Until then, you can assume that Apple will continue to develop, test, and optimize the technology. And when it does arrive, it will likely be as you've come to expect from Apple: well-thought-out, high-quality, and with a clear focus on the user experience. So, if you've been waiting for a foldable iPad for a while, chances are you won't have to wait too long. (Photo by Unsplash / Thai Nguyen)