The dream of a foldable Apple device isn't new. Back in December 2024, industry analyst Mark Gurman first envisioned a future where Apple’s computing power could unfold – a device the size of two iPad Pros, yet compact enough to slip into a backpack when closed.
That vision resurfaced last spring, with predictions of a 2026 launch alongside a foldable iPhone. Analyst Jeff Pu fueled the anticipation, suggesting both devices were on the horizon. However, optimism quickly faded as reports surfaced of significant roadblocks just months later.
Development challenges proved persistent, casting doubt on the project’s viability. The ambitious “mega tablet” faced “development snags,” leading many to believe it might never see the light of day. These hurdles haven’t vanished, and the path forward remains unclear.
A surprisingly fundamental issue plagues the design: typing. Gurman’s latest report highlights concerns about the practicality of using the device for on-the-go productivity, questioning its usefulness as a mobile workstation. Consequently, a launch isn’t imminent, pushed to the “near the end of Apple’s 2020s road map.”
Don’t expect a revolutionary hybrid bridging the gap between Mac and iPad. Gurman clarifies that this foldable device isn’t intended to be a true combination of the two. It’s fundamentally an iPad, albeit a folding one, and its fate remains uncertain.
The landscape could shift dramatically, however. With the potential arrival of a touchscreen MacBook on the horizon, Apple’s future plans remain fluid and open to unexpected innovation. The future of foldable computing at Apple is still being written.
