You might be able to fold your iPad as early as next year.

      Prakhar Khanna / Digital Trends

      The iPad Fold, as it is being called, might be released as early as next year. A recent report indicates that the first folding iPad is expected to be available in 2026. According to this report, the new foldable iPad could feature an impressive 18.8-inch display when fully expanded. There are also indications that this launch will coincide with an iPhone Fold.

      The iPad Fold report

      This information comes from analyst Jeff Pu, as cited in a research note by 9to5Mac where the timeline was disclosed. The report suggests that Apple could unveil two foldable devices in 2026: a 7.8-inch iPhone Fold and an 18.8-inch iPad Fold. It's still uncertain whether Apple will only announce these devices or if they will actually be available for purchase at that time. Typically, when Apple announces new hardware, availability follows within a few months, leading to optimistic expectations. Pu asserts that both devices are slated to begin mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026.

      An alternative perspective

      However, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has stated that the folding iPads may not arrive until much later, possibly in 2028. Gurman mentioned, "Apple designers are creating something resembling a large iPad that unfolds to the size of two iPad Pros side by side. The Cupertino-based company has been refining the product for a couple of years and aims to release it around 2028, as I’ve been informed."

      Interestingly, Pu initially discussed these foldable Apple devices last August, and Gurman shared his insights towards the end of last year. Now, Pu—who often considers Gurman and other supply chain sources—is reaffirming a 2026 launch date. This certainly generates excitement regarding these prospective new Apple Fold devices. Expect to see leaked components and more supply chain updates in the upcoming months if the 2026 projection holds true. Otherwise, we might have to wait significantly longer for Apple to enter the foldable market.

      Luke has more than twenty years of experience in covering technology, science, and health. Among other topics, Luke writes about health tech…

      The iPad doesn’t require AI, but Apple must address another issue

      I have just completed testing the new entry-level iPad, and thus far, I am quite impressed with the tablet. For $349, you won’t find a better value than this device. From its external hardware to the internal components, there's hardly any alternative on the Android side that can provide a superior experience. This year, Apple has surprised users with additional features beyond the anticipated chip upgrade. Users now receive double the storage for the same price, and RAM has also been increased. Overall, it’s faster, improved for multitasking, and avoids storage issues, even for those on a tight budget.

      However, Apple hasn’t resolved the software issues with iPadOS, which continues to exhibit its share of quirks. This year, the software gap is even more pronounced between the base iPad and other tablets in Apple’s lineup. Stage Manager has differentiated the experience so far, but in 2025, the disparity could deepen.

      A significant departure with AI

      Here’s a key reason the ‘iPhone Fold’ will resemble an iPad

      Apple is expected to unveil its first “iPhone Fold” in 2026, following years after competitors like Samsung and OnePlus have already launched their own foldable devices. The reasons behind Apple's delay in entering the foldable market are not entirely clear, but one likely explanation is that the company is focused on ensuring a seamless transition between the outer and inner displays.

      This week, reports surfaced indicating that Apple plans to incorporate a liquid metal hinge in the iPhone Fold. This innovation aims to improve durability and reduce the visibility of the display crease. Creasing was a major concern for early foldable devices like the original Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, but advancements have significantly reduced this issue over the years.

      iPhone now allows users to set WhatsApp as the default for messages and calls; here’s how

      iPhone users can now configure their devices to make WhatsApp their default messaging and calling application. If your iPhone is updated to iOS 18.2, this functionality is already accessible to you right now.