After years of speculation, Apple is finally moving closer to joining the foldable device race. According to multiple analysts and credible reports, Apple is developing not just one, but two foldable devices — with a potential mass production timeline set for the fourth quarter of 2026. This positions the official launch sometime in late 2026 or early 2027.

From foldable iPhones to hybrid MacBook–iPads, Apple’s entrance into this new tech category is one of the most anticipated moves in the mobile and computing industries. Here’s a deep dive into everything we know so far.

The Timeline: When Will Apple Launch Its Foldable Devices?

Investment firm GF Securities’ analyst Jeff Pu recently revealed that Apple’s foldable devices are now scheduled to enter mass production in Q4 of 2026. This is a shift from earlier rumors which pointed to a mid-2026 timeline. The delay, while minor, reflects Apple’s characteristic attention to detail and rigorous product testing phase.

These devices are currently in the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn — Apple’s key manufacturing partner. This stage marks the transition from concept to actual production-ready units, indicating substantial progress behind the scenes.

What Devices Can We Expect?

Apple is rumored to be working on two foldable models:

1. A Foldable iPhone with a 7.8-inch display.

2. A Larger Foldable Device with an 18.8-inch screen — potentially a hybrid between an iPad and a MacBook.

The smaller device is expected to directly rival existing foldable smartphones from competitors like Samsung, Google, and Huawei. Meanwhile, the larger device is generating even more buzz, as it could redefine how we use tablets and laptops.

Hybrid or Mac? The Bigger Question

The classification of the 18.8-inch foldable remains a topic of debate. Will it be an iPad, a MacBook, or a new category altogether?

Analyst Jeff Pu refers to it as a MacBook–iPad hybrid, suggesting it could run macOS — traditionally reserved for Apple’s desktop and laptop line. Display expert Ross Young and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also support this vision, adding weight to the MacBook-style prediction. On the other hand, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman believes Apple will categorize it under the iPad umbrella.

The final classification might ultimately depend on the operating system Apple chooses to use:

• If it runs macOS, it will likely be considered part of the Mac family.

• If it operates on iPadOS, then it would remain under the iPad range.

Either way, this hybrid approach could signal a new era of multifunctional Apple devices that blur the lines between tablet and laptop.

Why Is Apple Entering the Foldables Market Now?

Apple has always taken a “wait and perfect” approach with new technology trends. While companies like Samsung, Motorola, and Huawei have been testing foldables in the market for years, Apple has taken its time to evaluate the tech, monitor consumer response, and develop a product that delivers superior performance, design, and usability.

The foldables market is still considered niche but is gaining momentum. With improvements in display durability, hinge technology, and battery efficiency, the segment is finally mature enough for Apple’s high standards.

Moreover, updates to iOS 19 and macOS 16 are reportedly being optimized to support foldable interfaces and touchscreen functionalities — another clear sign that Apple is preparing its ecosystem for a big shift.

Expected Features and Price Range

While Apple has yet to officially reveal specs or features, some early rumors hint at what we might see:

• Touch ID may return for foldable iPhones.

• Ultra-thin glass (UTG) for added screen durability.

• Hinge innovations to reduce creasing and improve fold quality.

• Support for Apple Pencil for the larger foldable device.

• Seamless app transitions between folded and unfolded modes.

In terms of pricing, the foldable iPhone is expected to be positioned as a premium flagship, with an estimated price tag starting at $2,000 or more. Apple has never shied away from pricing its products at the premium end — especially when pioneering a new form factor.

How Apple Could Change the Foldables Game

If history is any indication, Apple doesn’t just follow trends — it reshapes them. The iPhone wasn’t the first smartphone, but it redefined the category. The same goes for the iPad, Apple Watch, and even AirPods.

With the entry of Apple into the foldable market, we can expect:

• A refined user experience, combining software and hardware seamlessly.

• App ecosystem enhancements optimized for foldable interfaces.

• Design innovations that prioritize durability, aesthetics, and usability.

Apple’s entry will likely create a domino effect, pushing other brands to step up their game and bring more competitive pricing and features to the table.

Final Thoughts

The foldable revolution is about to get a major boost, and Apple is gearing up to be a central player. With two innovative devices on the horizon — a foldable iPhone and a hybrid MacBook–iPad — Apple is set to push the boundaries of mobile and computing technology.

As we inch closer to 2026, anticipation is building. Whether you’re a die-hard Apple fan or a curious tech enthusiast, one thing is clear: the future of foldable tech just got a whole lot more exciting.

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple unfolds its next big thing.