Apple’s Gigantic IPad Fold Reportedly On Track For A 2026 Launch

Summary: Analyst Jeff Pu claims Apple will launch both its foldable iPhone and iPad Fold in 2026. However, Mark Gurman expects the iPad Fold to arrive much later in 2028. Apple will probably lead with the foldable iPhone first, aiming to ease users into foldable devices before introducing the pricier foldable iPad.

2026 will be the year of Apple’s foldables. Not only are we getting a foldable iPhone, but the rumored iPad Fold is expected to make its debut in 2026 as well. This is according to analyst Jeff Pu, whose research note was seen by 9to5Mac.

iPad Fold coming in 2026

According to Pu, Apple will launch its foldable iPhone and the iPad Fold in 2026. Mass production will kick off in the fourth quarter of 2026. However, we want to point out that Pu’s research note goes against Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s own report, which claims that Apple’s foldable iPad will arrive much later. According to Gurman, the device will most likely arrive in 2028.

Honestly, Gurman’s report makes more sense. It seems unlikely that Apple will drop two extremely expensive devices back to back, especially if it hopes to get iPhone users to also buy the iPad. Instead, the company will probably try to convince its customers of the advantages of a foldable device with the iPhone before pushing the more premium and expensive foldable iPad.

Plus, Gurman has an extremely stellar track record when it comes to Apple insider news.

Apple’s foldable plans so far

So far, what we know about Apple’s foldable plans include a 7.8-inch foldable iPhone and an 18.8-inch foldable iPad. According to the rumors, the foldable iPhone will adopt an aspect ratio similar to Apple’s current iPads. This means developers won’t need to readjust their apps, as long as they’ve configured them properly for the iPad.

As for the foldable iPad, last we heard, Apple already has a prototype in the works. However, unlike the foldable iPhone, the iPad Fold will feature Face ID. Apple will hide it under the display, marking a clear improvement over the current Face ID system. Apple is reportedly skipping Face ID for the foldable iPhone due to space constraints. But hopefully, future models will include the feature.

Rumors put Apple’s foldable iPhone at $2,000, but with Trump’s tariffs in play, you could the final price to climb much higher.