Highlights

• Apple’s foldable iPad expected to enter mass production by end of 2024.
• Key collaboration with Samsung Display and LG Display for foldable panel supply.
• Strategic shift to focus on iPad over iPhone for foldable technology.
• Price speculated to start at over $2,000, redefining metrics for product success.

With foldable smartphones now permeating through consumer electronics segment at such a rapid pace, many in the industry have speculated when Apple will hop aboard.

Now according to a report from Taiwan-based Digitimes, the time is not far but it is not for a product most would expect.

It is a known fact that Apple has been labouring over the design of a foldable iPad for four years.

As per the report, this new folding iPad is expected to enter mass production by the end of 2024.

As Apple reportedly shifts its focus from the iPhone to the iPad for its foldable ambitions, the industry and consumers alike are eagerly awaiting what could be a revolutionary product.

The Roadblocks to a Folding iPad

One of the critical aspects highlighted in the report is Apple’s collaboration with Samsung Display (SDC) and LG Display (LGD) for the foldable panel supply.

However, Apple faces challenges on multiple fronts with the main issue being the reduction of the visible crease that often appears in foldable displays.

However, reports suggest that both SDC and LGD have made significant strides in mechanical designs to address this issue.

Initially spearheaded by Apple’s product design team, the project has now been handed over to the procurement department.

But wouldn’t a folding iPhone make more sense? After all it is the company’s real money-maker.

However, Apple’s choice to initially experiment with a foldable iPad instead of an iPhone might be strategic iPads make up a smaller proportion of Apple’s total sales, making it easier to manage any potential issues with a less dramatic impact on revenue.

Testing the Waters

The looming question remains: What could this foldable iPad mean for the market and, more specifically, for Apple?

The price point for this futuristic device remains a point of speculation, with some analysts suggesting it could start at well over $2,000.

If this proves to be accurate, Apple would likely need to redefine its metrics for what constitutes a “successful” product, diverging from what typically makes a regular iPad popular.

Apple’s Road Ahead for Foldables

The foldable iPad is, of course, still shrouded in secrecy and subject to design changes before hitting the market.

As the tech giant continues to navigate design and cost challenges, the industry and consumers will be closely watching how Apple handles this ambitious project.

Success with the iPad could finally prompt Apple to step up into the realm of a folding iPhone.

FAQs

When is Apple’s foldable iPad expected to be released?

The foldable iPad is anticipated to enter mass production by the end of 2024.

What are the technical challenges Apple is facing?

One major hurdle is the visible crease in foldable displays, though strides are being made in mechanical design to mitigate this issue.

Why is Apple focusing on a foldable iPad rather than an iPhone?

The iPad constitutes a smaller percentage of Apple’s sales, making it a strategic choice for testing new, risky technology.

What is the expected price point for the foldable iPad?

Analysts speculate that the price could start at well over $2,000.

Also Read: Apple Foldable iPhone Launch Soon: Patent Won for Crack-Resistant folding display

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