Whispers within Apple suggest the highly anticipated foldable iPhone isn't a sure thing, a gamble even as the company prepares to enter a new era of device design. Insiders reveal a significant bet is being placed on consumer desire for more than just the standard smartphone form factor – a belief that people crave innovation in shape and size.
This marks the first indication Apple envisions a future extending beyond a single foldable model. The initial device, expected to unfold like a book, may be just the beginning. Speculation now points towards a larger foldable iPhone, potentially rivaling the expansive screen of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
However, the path to innovation isn’t always smooth. Apple’s ambitious foldable iPad project, once slated for a 2028 release, is facing unexpected delays. The device, envisioned as essentially two iPad Pros seamlessly joined, presented a unique design challenge – eliminating the need for an external display.
The setback isn’t due to typical supply chain disruptions, offering a small comfort to those concerned about availability. Instead, Apple engineers are grappling with fundamental hurdles related to the device’s weight and the complexities of its large-scale foldable display technology.
As a result, the foldable iPad’s arrival has been pushed back to 2029, a significant shift in timeline. Despite the delay, the core design remains unchanged, and pricing is currently projected to remain in the premium territory – likely around $3,000 – reflecting the advanced engineering involved.
These internal challenges highlight the immense difficulty in bringing truly innovative devices to life. While Apple’s commitment to foldable technology remains, the journey is proving to be more complex and protracted than initially anticipated.
