Apple’s first foldable device may not be an iPhone or iPad, launch expected in 2027

Updated on 22-Aug-2024
HIGHLIGHTS

Apple Analyst, Ming Chi Kuo previously shared that Apple is exploring two screen sizes for this foldable device.

But now, we have an update on the same.

In an X post, Ming-Chi Kuo shared that Apple might just go with the 18.8-inch size.

Major tech brands across the globe are shifting their focus on foldables now and so is Apple. It has been in the rumour mill for a while now that Apple has been working on its first foldable device. Surprisingly, it might not be the iPhone or an iPad but a MacBook, according to recent reports. This news was shared by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF Securities International.

He had previously shared that Apple is exploring two potential screen sizes for this device: 18.8 inches and 20.25 inches. When folded, these screens would turn into 13-inch and 14-inch laptop sizes, respectively. He had further added that the display panel for these foldables would be supplied exclusively by LG Display, while the hinge mechanism would reportedly be provided by Amphenol.

Even Ross Young, CEO and Co-Founder of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), had also confirmed that Apple is indeed working on a foldable MacBook. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Young said that the high cost of production had prompted Apple to focus on an 18.76-inch display rather than the larger 20.25-inch option.

Apple’s Foldable MacBook: What can we expect?

But now, we have an update on the same. In an X post, Ming-Chi Kuo shared that we can see a significant delay in the production of these foldable MacBooks. He shared that Apple might just go with a single 18.8-inch size and cancel plans for the larger 20.25-inch design. This is because of the technical challenges that the engineers are facing with both the display and the mechanical assembly.

It is because of the same that Apple has been forced to push back the mass production timeline too. It was initially expected to go into mass production in the first half of 2026, but now it has been delayed until the end of 2027 or possibly 2028.

Now, this has also led to confusion in the market regarding the rumoured foldable iPad, which some expected to launch in 2025. However, the latest supply chain surveys show that a foldable iPad is not visible on Apple’s roadmap. This confusion might also have come from the fact that some in the industry are referring to the foldable MacBook as a foldable iPad.

Let’s see when Apple actually drops a new foldable MacBook in the market.

Mustafa Khan

Mustafa is new on the block and is a tech geek who is currently working with Digit as a News Writer. He tests the new gadgets that come on board and writes for the news desk. He has found his way with words and you can count on him when in need of tech advice. No judgement. He is based out of Delhi, he’s your person for good photos, good food recommendations, and to know about anything GenZ.

Connect On :