Apple’s Large Foldable iPad Faces Potential Delay Until 2029

Apple’s ambitious plan for a large-screen foldable iPad has hit a significant roadblock. The device, previously targeted for a 2028 release, may now not arrive until 2029. This information comes from a recent report by Bloomberg.

Development challenges are the primary cause for the potential postponement. Engineers are reportedly grappling with the device’s weight and the durability of its display.

Technical Hurdles and Design Specifications

According to Bloomberg, the product is expected to feature an 18-inch OLED display supplied by Samsung. A major focus for Apple is minimizing the visible crease, a common issue with foldable screens. The company is investing heavily in this display technology.

The device’s design is said to resemble a Mac when closed, with a solid aluminum shell and no external screen. When opened, it offers a large tablet experience without a physical keyboard. However, this design, combined with the large screen, results in a heavy prototype weighing around 3.5 pounds.

Market Position and Consumer Cost

The high cost of components will likely make this a premium product. A large foldable OLED display is currently very expensive to produce. This could place the final product’s price close to $3,900.

This would position Apple’s foldable iPad similarly to existing high-end foldables like the Huawei MateBook Fold. The reported design is comparable to that device, which is also an 18-inch foldable tablet. Apple’s entry will aim to redefine the premium tablet and portable computer market.

The development of Apple’s first large foldable iPad is a complex technical endeavor. Its eventual release will mark a significant moment for the tablet industry, despite the current setbacks pushing its potential launch window further into the future.

Info at your fingertips

Why is the foldable iPad reportedly delayed?

The delay is attributed to development challenges. Engineers are working to solve issues related to the device’s overall weight and the durability of its folding display technology.

How much could the foldable iPad cost?

Due to the high cost of its large foldable OLED screen, the device could be priced around $3,900. This is roughly three times the cost of a current 13-inch iPad Pro.

What is the screen size of the foldable iPad?

The device is expected to have an 18-inch display. It is being developed by Samsung, with Apple focusing on minimizing the visibility of the screen’s crease.

How does it compare to a foldable iPhone?

This is a separate product line. The foldable iPad is a large-screen device, while a smaller foldable iPhone is also in development and could launch as early as next year.

What does the foldable iPad look like?

Reports indicate it will have an aluminum shell and look like a MacBook when closed. When open, it becomes a large tablet without a attached physical keyboard.