Apple's rumored 2028 launch of a giant foldable iPad: Conquering the crease, ushering in a new era of portability and productivity

Apple's rumored 2028 launch of a giant foldable iPad: Conquering the crease, ushering in a new era of portability and productivityApple is secretly developing a remarkable "giant-screen" foldable iPad, with an unfolded screen size comparable to two iPad Pros placed side-by-side. This news comes from a recent report by renowned journalist Mark Gurman, who states that Apple has invested years of research and development into tackling the Achilles' heel of foldable devices: the crease

Apple's rumored 2028 launch of a giant foldable iPad: Conquering the crease, ushering in a new era of portability and productivity

Apple is secretly developing a remarkable "giant-screen" foldable iPad, with an unfolded screen size comparable to two iPad Pros placed side-by-side. This news comes from a recent report by renowned journalist Mark Gurman, who states that Apple has invested years of research and development into tackling the Achilles' heel of foldable devices: the crease.

Gurman's report indicates that the unfolded screen size of this foldable iPad will approach 20 inches. This expansive screen real estate will cater to users who desire both portability and a large-screen display experience. Unlike existing foldable devices, Apple's focus is on conquering the screen crease. Their goal is to achieve a screen that looks like "one continuous piece of glass," seamlessly integrated. Current prototypes have shown significant progress, with the crease being almost invisible, though completely eliminating it remains a technical challenge.

Regarding the operating system, Gurman predicts it will likely run iPadOS or a derivative. While he doesn't foresee a complete fusion of iPad and Mac functionalities, he anticipates future iPadOS iterations will be advanced enough to support some macOS applications while maintaining excellent compatibility with accessories like Apple Pencil.

Rather than anticipating an "iPad-Mac hybrid," focus should be on Apple's continued investment in iPadOS. Future system updates will likely enhance iPad productivity, moving closer to the Mac experience while preserving the unique touch advantages of the iPad. This represents a more practical and effective improvement for users.

Concerning the long-awaited foldable iPhone, Gurman's report suggests Apple is primarily focused on the 20-inch foldable iPad. The foldable iPhone's launch is at least slated for 2026, potentially later.

The Wall Street Journal also recently reported on Apple's foldable devices, mentioning two models under development: a foldable iPhone and a larger device unfolding to approximately 19 inches. Regarding the foldable iPhone, the report states its unfolded screen size will exceed that of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Apple executives are reportedly pushing for a 2026 release, but achieving a flawless product may require more time. This aligns with Gurman's prediction.

Apple's foldable technology strategy appears to be tackling larger screens first, accumulating technical expertise and resolving key challenges. The 20-inch foldable iPad is not only a bold attempt but also a demonstration of technical prowess, showcasing Apple's deep expertise in materials science, screen technology, and software optimization. Mastering the challenges of the 20-inch foldable iPad will pave the way for future foldable iPhones, offering users superior portability and screen experiences.

The launch of this giant foldable iPad will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the tablet market. It will provide users with an unprecedented screen experience and redefine the boundaries of portability and productivity. A larger screen translates to higher efficiency, smoother multitasking, and more immersive entertainment. For creative professionals, programmers, and others needing large screens, this foldable iPad will be ideal.

However, challenges remain. The 20-inch screen will inevitably increase the device's weight and size, potentially impacting portability. Foldable screen technology still needs improvement; while Apple has made significant progress, completely eliminating the crease requires further breakthroughs. A high price point could also limit market penetration.

Nevertheless, Apple's giant foldable iPad represents a crucial direction for future tablet development. It will lead portability and productivity into a new era, delivering an exciting mobile computing experience. Apple's investment in foldable technology demonstrates its commitment to innovation and its leadership in the mobile device sector.

Apple's decision to launch a giant foldable iPad before a foldable iPhone is likely a strategic move related to risk management and technology maturity. Developing a large foldable screen is more challenging; success would provide valuable experience and technical reserves for subsequent foldable iPhone development. This phased approach reflects Apple's consistent, meticulous approach to development.

In the coming years, we'll witness further breakthroughs from Apple in foldable technology. This 20-inch foldable iPad could be just the beginning, with the highly anticipated foldable iPhone to follow soon.

We eagerly await Apple's overcoming of technical hurdles, delivering a truly stunning foldable iPad and, eventually, a foldable iPhone, ushering in a new era for mobile devices. This will be yet another groundbreaking innovation from Apple that will shock the tech world and consumer market. We wait with bated breath.