Foldable iPad Still Expected in 2026, Says Analyst Jeff Pu

Highlights

• Analyst Jeff Pu predicts the launch of two foldable Apple devices in late 2026.
• It will be a 7.8-inch iPhone Fold and an 18.8-inch iPad Fold.
• Both devices are expected to begin mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Caption – Apple expected to enter foldable segment in 2026 with multiple products. (Image credit – 9to5Mac)

In the last few weeks, we have been getting a lot of reports about Apple’s foldable iPhone. However, not much is known about Apple’s other foldable project, which is a rumoured large-screen iPad. Now, despite some reports suggesting a delay, popular analyst Jeff Pu says the 18.8-inch iPad ‘Fold’ is still on track for a 2026 launch. Here’s what we know so far.

Apple Foldable iPhone and iPad in 2026

In a new research note shared by 9to5Mac, Jeff Pu gives an update on Apple’s product plans for the next couple of years. He points out that two foldable Apple devices are currently expected to launch in 2026 include –

• A 7.8-inch iPhone Fold, which has been widely covered already
• And an 8-inch foldable device, believed to be the iPad Fold

According to Pu, “both devices” are “forecast to start mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026.”

This isn’t the first time Pu has shared this timeline. He previously said something similar back in August. But since then, we’ve heard a different take from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

Back in December, Gurman also reported, “Apple designers are developing something akin to a giant iPad that unfolds into the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side. The Cupertino, California-based company has been honing the product for a couple of years now and is aiming to bring something to market around 2028, I’m told.”

That’s a much later target than Pu’s 2026 estimate, and it would give Apple a chance to test the market with the iPhone Fold before releasing something bigger.

According to a recent 9to5Mac report, what’s interesting is that Pu’s research usually pulls in various sources, including supply chain data and analysts like Gurman. So the fact that he’s sticking with his original prediction is notable. If Pu is right, fall 2026 could be a major moment for Apple, with both a foldable iPhone and foldable iPad hitting the market together.

FAQs

Q1. What foldable Apple devices are expected to launch in 2026?

Answer. According to analyst Jeff Pu, Apple is planning to release a 7.8-inch iPhone Fold and an 18.8-inch iPad Fold in late 2026.

Q2. When will the foldable devices begin production?

Answer. Jeff Pu forecasts that both the foldable iPhone and iPad are scheduled to start mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Q3. Are there conflicting reports about the release timeline of the foldable iPad?

Answer. Yes, while Jeff Pu maintains a 2026 launch date, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested a later release around 2028 for the larger foldable device.

Also Read: Apple’s Foldable iPhone Could Come with a Compact Display

Also Read: Apple’s M6 iPad Pro to Feature In-House Modem in 2027 – Gurman