Apple’s First Foldable iPhone and Hybrid Device May Launch by Late 2026

Apple is steadily pushing forward in the foldable tech race, and according to multiple industry analysts, the tech giant could unveil its first foldable devices as early as late 2026. These devices reportedly include both a compact foldable iPhone and a larger foldable notebook-style hybrid, marking Apple’s entry into a category dominated so far by Samsung and other Android manufacturers.

Insight from Jeff Pu of GF Securities

Analyst Jeff Pu from investment firm GF Securities recently noted that Apple is working on two foldables:

• One featuring a 7.8-inch outer screen, and

• Another with an expansive 18.8-inch inner display.

Both devices are now believed to have reached the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, signaling that development is progressing well. Pu added that these products are likely to enter mass production by Q4 2026, placing the launch timeline around late 2026 or possibly early 2027.

“Development progress remains ‘intact,’” Pu emphasized, hinting that Apple is taking a careful yet deliberate approach to its foldable rollout.

New Timeline vs Earlier Expectations

This projected release date pushes back initial expectations, which had pegged mass production for mid-2026. Despite the slight delay, industry experts say Apple is playing the long game, ensuring both innovation and durability in its foldable line-up.

MacBook or iPad? The Hybrid Mystery

Expert Predictions on Form Factor

While speculation remains about how the larger foldable device will be categorized, Jeff Pu suggests it will be a MacBook–iPad hybrid—equipped with a full touchscreen display and likely macOS support.

Analysts such as Ross Young (Display Supply Chain Consultants) and Ming-Chi Kuo (TF International Securities) have both backed claims of an 18.8-inch foldable notebook in the works. In contrast, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has referred to the device as a foldable iPad.

Classification Hinges on Software

Ultimately, the device’s classification will likely come down to the operating system Apple decides to pair it with:

• If it runs macOS, it would fall under the Mac category.

• If it ships with iPadOS, it would become part of the iPad lineup.

Gurman has also hinted that Apple’s iOS 19 and macOS 16 will feature updates designed to support foldable devices and touchscreen Macs, reinforcing the idea of a future where hybrid designs become mainstream.

Apple’s Foldables in the Global Context

With companies like Samsung, Huawei, and Google already in the foldable game, Apple’s entrance—though delayed—could reshape the segment. Unlike its competitors, Apple is taking a cautious but calculated route, ensuring software readiness, hardware durability, and ecosystem integration before launch.

Latest Apple devices of 2025

As of April 12, 2025, Apple has already released several new devices this year. Here's a rundown of the latest Apple devices of 2025, based on official announcements and credible rumors:  

Released in Early 2025:

• iPhone 16e: Introduced in February, this is a new, more affordable member of the iPhone 16 family, featuring the A18 chip and a 48MP main camera. It comes in black and white with colorful case options.  

• MacBook Air with M4 Chip: Released in March, the new MacBook Air features the powerful M4 chip, delivering significant performance and efficiency improvements. It also comes in a new "sky blue" color. Both 13-inch and 15-inch models are available.  

• Mac Studio with M3 Ultra and M4 Max Chips: Also announced in March, the updated Mac Studio now offers configurations with the high-performance M3 Ultra and M4 Max chips for demanding professional workflows.  

• iPad Air with M3 Chip: Launched in early March, the new iPad Air is powered by the M3 chip, offering enhanced performance and new capabilities. It's available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes and introduces a redesigned Magic Keyboard.  

• iPad (11th Generation): Refreshed in March, the entry-level iPad now features a larger 11-inch screen and is powered by the A16 chip, providing a performance boost over the previous generation.  

Expected Later in 2025 (Rumors and Anticipation):

Apple typically has a major product announcement in the fall, and here's what is being rumored for the latter half of 2025:

• iPhone 17 Series: The next flagship iPhones are expected in September. Rumors suggest a potential "iPhone 17 Air" model replacing the Plus, and significant camera design changes for the Pro models. All models are anticipated to feature ProMotion displays and the new A19 chip.  

• Apple Watch Series 11: The next generation of the standard Apple Watch is rumored to include a high blood pressure detection feature.  

• Apple Watch Ultra 3: The high-end Apple Watch is expected to be updated with potential blood pressure monitoring and possibly satellite connectivity.  

• AirPods Pro 3: A new generation of AirPods Pro is anticipated with a new design, improved audio quality and noise cancellation, and possibly health-related features.  

• MacBook Pro with M5 Chip: While a significant redesign is expected in 2026, a MacBook Pro refresh with the new M5 chip is likely in late 2025.  

• Mac Pro: An update to the Mac Pro is expected, potentially featuring the high-end "Ultra" or "Extreme" versions of the M4 chip.

• Apple TV 4K: A refreshed Apple TV is rumored with a faster processor and potentially integration with Apple Intelligence features.

• HomePod mini 2: An updated HomePod mini could feature a faster S-series chip and improved connectivity.  

• AirTag 2: A second-generation AirTag is expected with an improved Ultra Wideband chip for enhanced tracking range.  

• 'HomePad': A new smart home display device with a screen is rumored, potentially acting as a central hub.

• iPad Pro with M5 Chip: A more powerful iPad Pro featuring the M5 chip is anticipated, possibly in late 2025 or early 2026.  

Important Note: These later releases are based on rumors and analyst predictions. Apple has not officially announced these products or their specific release dates. The information available now provides a general overview of what to expect from Apple in 2025.

Conclusion

Apple's venture into foldable technology, though long anticipated, is finally gaining structure. Analysts suggest two devices are under active development and nearing production, including a foldable iPhone and a MacBook–iPad hybrid with a touchscreen interface. With late 2026 shaping up to be the likely launch window, Apple seems focused on perfecting the user experience and aligning software capabilities through upcoming updates in iOS 19 and macOS 16. While the market already features strong foldable contenders, Apple’s entry could redefine user expectations and raise the innovation bar once again.