Pu’s note highlights a significant shift in Apple’s roadmap. The analyst forecasts that both the 7.8-inch iPhone Fold and the larger 18.8-inch iPad Fold will enter mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026. This timeline aligns with earlier whispers from Pu in August 2024, though it contrasts with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who suggested a later 2028 launch for a foldable device. If Pu’s prediction holds, Apple could orchestrate a blockbuster fall 2026, unveiling two category-defining products in one season.
The iPhone Fold, with its 7.8-inch display, has been a focal point of speculation, promising a phone-to-tablet hybrid akin to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold. Less has been said about the iPad Fold—until now. At 18.8 inches when unfolded, it dwarfs current iPad models, suggesting a device that could blur the lines between tablet and laptop. Pu’s confidence in this dual rollout stems from supply chain insights, though specifics on design and features remain under wraps.
A Bold Leap for iPad
The iPad Fold’s expansive 18.8-inch screen hints at ambitious possibilities. Unlike the iPhone Fold, which caters to pocket-sized convenience, the iPad Fold appears geared toward productivity and creative workflows. Imagine a canvas nearly double the size of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, folding down to a more portable form factor. This could appeal to artists, designers, and professionals who crave a larger workspace without lugging around a full laptop.
Apple’s meticulous approach to foldables sets it apart from early adopters like Samsung, whose initial Galaxy Fold faced durability woes. By waiting, Apple has likely refined the technology—think crease-minimizing displays and robust hinges—to meet its exacting standards. The iPad Fold could run a beefed-up version of iPadOS, optimized for multitasking on a sprawling screen, or even flirt with macOS influences for a hybrid experience.
Timing and Market Strategy
Pu’s timeline—mass production in Q4 2026—suggests a launch window stretching from late 2026 into early 2027, depending on Apple’s final schedule. This aggressive push contrasts with Gurman’s more cautious 2028 estimate, which posited Apple might test the waters with the iPhone Fold first. Launching both devices together would be a daring move, potentially overwhelming consumers with choice but also cementing Apple’s dominance in premium tech.
The stakes are high. Pu notes that iPhone shipments may dip in 2025 due to delayed Apple Intelligence features, like an enhanced Siri, now slated for 2026. The foldables could be Apple’s ace, reigniting excitement and boosting sales. For the iPad Fold, targeting a niche of power users could complement the mass-market appeal of the iPhone Fold, creating a one-two punch in Apple’s ecosystem.
Why It Matters
A foldable iPad isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a practical evolution. Users could enjoy a laptop-sized display that folds into a tablet’s footprint, enhancing portability without sacrificing screen real estate. For instance, editing a 4K video or sketching a detailed illustration becomes more immersive on 18.8 inches, yet the device remains travel-friendly when closed. Apple’s ecosystem integration—think seamless handoff with iPhone and Mac—could make it a productivity powerhouse.
Still, challenges loom. Foldables demand durability, and Apple will need to nail the hinge and screen quality to avoid the pitfalls that plagued early competitors. Pricing will also be key; an 18.8-inch iPad Fold could command a premium, likely exceeding the $1,999 ceiling of the current iPad Pro with accessories.
Looking Ahead
While Pu’s track record isn’t flawless—past predictions have occasionally misfired—his supply chain ties lend credence to this forecast. Apple’s foldable journey has been years in the making, with whispers dating back to 2019. The iPad Fold’s 2026 timeline feels plausible, especially as display tech matures and Apple refines its vision.
For now, the iPad Fold remains a tantalizing prospect—a device that could redefine how we interact with tablets. Whether it arrives alongside the iPhone Fold or stands alone, it promises to push Apple’s innovation envelope. Expect more leaks as 2026 nears, but until then, this foldable future is one to watch.
