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Major players like Samsung have already released five generations of its novel foldable devices. Chinese tech giants have also claimed a huge chunk of that market. Now, Apple might be ready to enter the foldable space too. A new report suggests that the first foldable iPad could hit the shelves as early as 2024.
Apple has experimented with multiple prototypes
DigiTimes, a global supply chain publication, has cited sources from Apple’s supply chain. The sources claim that Apple has been internally experimenting with a foldable iPad for the last four years (approximately when the early flagship foldables from Samsung rolled around). The form factor is still evolving despite the many iterations the market has already seen. And Apple is reportedly catching up quietly and perfecting its version.
Per the rumor, Apple has designed multiple prototypes to iron out the kinks in the form factor. Hinge durability, display creasing, battery life, and UI optimization are major engineering challenges in this space.
Possible timeframe for the foldable iPad
The sources from DigiTimes also floated a possible timeframe for the first foldable iPad. Apple’s first foldable might go into production in 2024, with a launch date in late 2024 or early 2025. Other industry analysts caution that a foldable product won’t see the light of the day until 2025 or 2024.
Details on the design and specs of the upcoming foldable iPad remain equally fuzzy. According to sources, Apple has yet to lock down the specs and dimensions of the device. The delay might help Apple take advantage of innovations and breakthroughs from foldable display manufacturers like Samsung.
A foldable iPhone might be coming next
Sources claim to know that a foldable iPad will be the first in an entire category of new devices. Because the iPad has a lower sales volume, it can sustain small-scale production. It will allow Apple to refine the manufacturing process before moving on to more challenging products like a foldable iPhone.
In addition to streamlining manufacturing, developers will need time to perfect its apps for the evolving form factors. The premium pricing of foldables is limiting mass adoption of this form factor. For the foldable iPad to succeed, Apple also has to balance manufacturing with pricing.
A new category of iPad will kickstart a much-needed upgrade for Apple’s tablet and phone business. For now, Apple isn’t rushing to enter the foldable market, opting instead to wait until the tech is ready to win over consumers.