Apple to launch new foldable device? Check what it is and when production will begin

While Apple is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, their approach to foldable devices might not be what many expected. The tech giant is rumored to be working on a unique product in the foldable category, but it's not another smartphone. Instead, Apple's sights are set on a foldable tablet.

A New Direction for Apple

Apple is preparing to enter the world of foldable devices, following in the footsteps of competitors like Samsung and Motorola. However, their approach is distinctly different. Apple is not venturing into foldable phones; instead, they are focusing on developing a foldable iPad, according to reports from Digitimes.


Production of this foldable iPad is slated to commence by the end of the upcoming year. This move serves as a precursor to a potential foldable iPhone in the future.

Designing for Success

Apple's team of experts is meticulously exploring panel and hinge designs that would be both cost-effective and suitable for mass production. They have been in discussions with display giants such as Samsung Display and LG Display to secure the necessary foldable screens.

While Apple remains a leader in the tablet market, its tablet shipments experienced a 16.8% drop over the past year. While this decline is less severe than the overall market's 29.9% slump, Apple is keen to reverse the trend. The introduction of a foldable iPad is seen as a strategic move to counteract this decline.

The Future of Foldable iPhones

Analysts are speculating that a foldable iPhone might become a reality by 2025 or 2026. With competitors like Samsung aggressively promoting foldable smartphones, Apple seems determined to keep pace.

Samsung, for instance, recently unveiled its fifth iteration of folding smartphones, the Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold devices. The early versions of foldable screens faced challenges with bending and bulging, but manufacturers have made significant improvements in this regard.

Even Google joined the foldable race by launching its Pixel Fold, a foldable smartphone, earlier this year.

Recent Apple Developments

While the focus may be on foldable devices, Apple also announced a new Pencil device. There had been rumors of plans for three new iPads. The most recent iPad refresh occurred last year with the release of the updated iPad Air and the 10th-generation iPad.

Apple's latest offering, the iPhone 15, was introduced recently. However, some buyers have reported issues like a mysterious "crackle," overheating, and problems with certain battery packs. Despite these challenges, there's already speculation about potential features for the iPhone 17, even though it's expected to be at least two years before its release.

FAQs

Is Apple making a foldable phone?
"The company doesn't seem to be rushing into the foldable smartphone market," noted Ross Young, an analyst at Display Supply Chain Consultants, in a report from last year. According to Young, the rumored Apple folding phone, the iPhone Flip, is anticipated to debut in 2025 or beyond.

Will there be a foldable iPad?
The commencement of mass production for Apple's initial foldable device is projected for 2025. According to ‌DigiTimes‌, this foldable device could potentially drive an increase in ‌iPad‌ shipments, contributing to a rise in global tablet sales, which have been on a declining trend.