Foldable iPads and touchscreen Macs could be out before the end of the decade
By ForGeeks Apple is preparing to change its product lineup – touchscreen Macs and foldable iPads could be on the market by 2030.
Rumors about Apple’s foldable devices have been circulating for several years, but now they’re getting more concrete. Analyst Jeff Poo believes Apple will unveil its first foldable gadget – probably the iPhone Fold – as early as late 2026. And about a year later, the technology will make its way to the iPad lineup.
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, for his part, expects both the foldable iPhone and foldable iPads to appear in 2027. He notes that Apple continues to work not only on flexible screens but also on robotic devices, which could also debut in the second half of the decade.
One of the most interesting options being discussed by insiders is a foldable iPad mini. Rumor has it that when folded, it will resemble an iPhone with an external screen, and when unfolded, it will be almost identical to the current iPad mini.
Touchscreen Macs: from skepticism to possible reality
Apple has traditionally dismissed the idea of touchscreen Macs. Back in 2018, vice president of software engineering Craig Federighi claimed that interacting with a laptop via a touchscreen was awkward and tedious. Nevertheless, the company continues to patent technologies related to touchscreen laptops.
The patent documents describe MacBooks with touchscreens and advanced trackpads. Some solutions involve fully integrating touch controls with the classic notebook form factor. While Apple hasn’t commented on a possible release date for such models, it’s clear that the company is seriously considering this scenario.
Price is the main brake
The main obstacle to the emergence of foldable devices is their high cost. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, for example, costs about $2,565, and demand for it remains limited. Foldable iPads or Macs could be even more expensive. Until flexible-screen technology becomes cheaper, Apple shouldn’t expect to mass-produce such gadgets.
The trend is clear, though: Apple is gradually paving the way for a new era of devices. The next generation of iPad, MacBook and possibly iPhone may look very different to what we’re used to. Would you buy a folding iPad if it cost the same as a regular iPad?
The story Folding iPads and touchscreen Macs could be out before the end of the decade was first published on ITZine.ru.
