Apple to Launch Giant Foldable iPad in 2028: Nearly 20-Inch Screen, Potentially Enhanced iPadOS

Apple to Launch Giant Foldable iPad in 2028: Nearly 20-Inch Screen, Potentially Enhanced iPadOSBloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has revealed that Apple plans to launch its first foldable device in 2028. This device, when unfolded, will be roughly the size of two iPad Pros placed side-by-side, boasting a nearly 20-inch screen

Apple to Launch Giant Foldable iPad in 2028: Nearly 20-Inch Screen, Potentially Enhanced iPadOS

Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has revealed that Apple plans to launch its first foldable device in 2028. This device, when unfolded, will be roughly the size of two iPad Pros placed side-by-side, boasting a nearly 20-inch screen. While this isn't the first time Apple has been rumored to be developing foldable technology, Bloomberg's report suggests a serious commitment to a product years in the making, with a particular focus on eliminating the crease.

Gurman describes the device as like a giant iPad, unfolding to reveal a single, unbroken sheet of glass. It's positioned as a high-end product. Apple's goal isn't to create a pocketable foldable tablet; instead, the focus is on a large-screen device that remains portable (fitting in a backpack). This differs from the current market trend of foldable devices prioritizing portability, often at the expense of screen size and user experience. Apple seems intent on delivering a new, more immersive experience, particularly for productivity tasks.

Current prototypes reportedly show a near-invisible crease, but Gurman cautions that the challenge isn't fully solved. "Apple's industrial design prototypes have it nearly invisible. But it's too early to tell if Apple can completely eliminate it. Samsung, which launched its first foldable phone five years ago, has tried to eliminate the crease and hasn't quite succeeded." This highlights Apple's technological ambition and meticulous attention to detail. Crease elimination is not merely an aesthetic concern but crucial for optimal visual fidelity and user experience. Success in this area would be a significant competitive advantage.

Regarding the operating system, Gurman speculates it might run a version of iPadOS, adding, "I don't think it will be a true iPad-Mac hybrid, but it will have elements of both. By 2028, iPadOS should be sophisticated enough to run macOS apps" This suggests Apple might integrate more macOS functionality into iPadOS to bolster the foldable device's productivity capabilities and offer a richer app ecosystem. This isn't a simple porting of the system, but would require significant adaptation and optimization of iPadOS for the larger screen and different interaction modes. Successfully implementing this would greatly expand the device's potential applications and market competitiveness. However, this remains speculation.

Gurman also mentions Apple is exploring a foldable iPhone, but its earliest release is projected for 2026. This points to a phased approach: releasing a larger foldable iPad to gain technical experience and market feedback before tackling a foldable iPhone, mitigating risk and informing future product development.

• The Wall Street Journal concurrently reported that Apple is developing its largest-ever MacBook, featuring a 19-inch foldable screen. It's unclear if this is the same device as Gurman's foldable iPad. Two possibilities exist: Apple is developing two distinct foldable devicesa productivity-focused foldable iPad and a professional-grade foldable MacBookor the Wall Street Journal report refers to the same device, simply emphasizing different aspects. Further information is needed to clarify this.

A 2028 launch of this giant foldable iPad would profoundly impact the tablet market. Its large screen size, powerful performance, and potential macOS app support would provide an unprecedented user experience, potentially redefining tablet usage. This would be a major undertaking for Apple in the foldable space, with its success impacting future product strategy and market position. Challenges remain, such as software optimization, thermal management, and cost control.

In conclusion, rumors of Apple's 2028 foldable iPad have generated significant industry interest. Its potential features and technological innovations make it a highly anticipated product. However, the final product's success remains to be seen. Apple's ability to seamlessly integrate a giant screen, innovative technology, and user experience will determine whether it becomes a market leader. Its success will not only impact Apple's market position but also the future direction of the foldable device market, reflecting Apple's relentless pursuit of technological innovation and user experience excellence. The coming years in the foldable device market will be filled with challenges and opportunities, and Apple's participation will undoubtedly make the market more exciting. This is not just about a single product's competition, but a contest for the future direction of technological development.