Apple Explores Foldable iPad Concept, Eyeing Future Release alongside OLED iPad Mini. Apple is reportedly exploring the frontier of foldable technology, with plans to potentially unveil a foldable iPad, envisioned as a 7″ or 8″ device that might make its debut within the next few years. This innovative concept could serve as a successor to the current 8.3″ iPad mini, suggesting a significant shift in Apple’s tablet design philosophy.
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Speculation suggests that this groundbreaking device could be revealed to the public around 2026 or 2027. Meanwhile, Apple is also advancing the development of an iPad mini featuring an OLED display. This concurrent development has left industry watchers pondering whether Apple will ultimately pursue the foldable design path.
The tech community has long been abuzz with rumors about Apple’s foray into foldable devices. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time before the tech giant unveils its contributions to the rapidly evolving foldable market.
Samsung Display and LG Display have been named as potential suppliers for the 7″ and 8″ display samples, with Samsung Display reportedly taking the lead in crafting foldable panels that would appeal to Apple’s stringent requirements.
Discussions between Apple, Samsung Display, and LG Display have reportedly covered various aspects critical to the development of a foldable device, including the choice of ultra-thin glass materials, cover panels, and hinge designs. These components are crucial for ensuring the durability and reliability of a foldable product, with material selection directly impacting the device’s longevity.
Should Apple greenlight mass production, Samsung Display is poised to manufacture the selected foldable panel using its sixth-generation A3 or A4 OLED line, which currently produces OLED panels for the iPhone.
Additionally, rumors hint at Apple working on an even larger foldable product, a 20.5″ device, slated for release after the introduction of the 7″ or 8″ model. Analyst Ross Young, known for his reliable insights, has mentioned this larger device, indicating that it would arrive at a later date, further expanding Apple’s foldable device portfolio.
