Lately, rumors have been circulating that Apple is working on a large foldable iPad, but the mechanical challenges it faces seem to be delaying its release until 2029.
According to information from Bloomberg, Apple's foldable iPad, which has sparked the interest of many, will not be available on the market before 2029, despite initial expectations for a 2028 launch.
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Apple is said to be developing two foldable devices, the most well-known of which is the iPhone Fold. However, rumors suggest that a foldable iPad is also in the works. The delay in the iPad's release is reportedly due to various engineering challenges that need to be addressed before the device is ready for the public.
The final price of the foldable iPad could approach $3,000 (about three times that of the 13-inch iPad Pro).
Engineers are also concerned about the weight of the foldable prototypes. Compared to the iPad Pro, which weighs about half a kilo, the prototypes are heavier, looking more like a MacBook Pro.
While weight is an issue, it's something that can certainly be reduced as development progresses. Sources say the current prototype is reminiscent of the Huawei MateBook Fold, an 18-inch foldable tablet.
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Foldable iPad and other technologies
The foldable iPad is expected to offer greater flexibility and capabilities. The folding technology allows the device to transform from a regular tablet into a larger screen, ideal for business use or entertainment. Despite the challenges, Apple continues to invest in the development of this technology, trying to offer consumers an innovative and reliable device.
Rumors of a foldable iPad have been circulating for some time, fueled in part by Apple filing patents for products that are close to the idea.
These patents include a hinged OLED screen that turns a large iPad into a MacBook, as well as a “buttonless keyboard” for a dual-screen. Apple has even envisioned improving the design by using actuators to change the physical shape of a display’s surface.
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Rumors have also surfaced about iPad Pro larger-screen. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has discussed the idea in the past. However, the idea hasn’t been a smooth ride. In July 2025, he claimed that Apple had decided to “pause progress” on the project to focus on the iPhone Fold.
