Apple Develops 18.8-Inch Foldable iPad with Under-Display Face ID
Rumors suggest that Apple is developing an 18.8-inch foldable iPad prototype featuring under-display facial recognition technology.
Apple and the World of Foldable Devices
For years, Apple has been fueling expectations with rumors of launching a foldable product, such as a dual-screen iPhone resembling a book or an iPhone Flip. However, it increasingly appears that the tech giant is focusing on developing a foldable iPad or MacBook, or a device that sits somewhere between the two.
A Foldable iPad Pro Prototype
According to a new rumor shared by the prolific leaker Digital Chat Station on Weibo, Apple has developed a prototype of a “foldable iPad Pro.” This device reportedly features several intriguing specs, including an 18.8-inch screen and a metal meta-lens. They specify that the display primarily incorporates Face ID for under-screen 3D facial recognition.
An 18.8-Inch Screen
This 18.8-inch screen size isn’t new for the highly anticipated device. Last year, a leaked five-year roadmap revealed Apple launching a “tablet/note PC/monitor” with an 18.8-inch foldable screen by 2028. Rumors also suggest a 20-inch foldable MacBook, with its launch not expected before 2026 or 2027.
An iPad/MacBook Hybrid in the Works?
It seems likely that Apple is working on an iPad/MacBook hybrid. According to DCS, the company is leaning more towards a tablet than a laptop. Additionally, the use of meta-lenses could allow for a smaller camera sensor. Theoretically, Apple could replace the current trio of lenses used for Face ID with a single, thinner meta-lens, a significant advancement as Apple strives to make its devices increasingly slimmer.
When Will Apple’s Foldable iPad and iPhone Be Released?
Various rumors suggest Apple is working on foldable versions of the iPad, iPhone, and/or MacBook. The foldable iPhone is not expected to debut before the launch of the foldable iPad/MacBook. Recently, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that the foldable iPhone could be launched in the fourth quarter of 2026, potentially in late 2026 or early 2027, which is earlier than the anticipated release date for the foldable iPad.
So, will we see Apple’s new foldable device next year or in 2028? Only time will tell.