Another Apple Foldable Device Rumor Emerges — Here’s What We Have Learned

Brace yourself for yet another wave of speculation regarding Apple’s long-anticipated foldable gadgets.

This time, the chatter originates from analyst Jeff Pu, who asserts in a recent research note (as reported by 9to5Mac) that Apple is gearing up to mass-produce two foldable devices by the end of 2026. According to Pu, the tech giant is developing a 7.8-inch foldable iPhone alongside a much larger 18.8-inch foldable iPad.

Although Pu has a reliable history, it’s wise to take this forecast with a grain of caution. Speculation surrounding a foldable iPhone has been prevalent for years — dating back to 2021 when some reports indicated Apple would release one by 2023, which clearly did not materialize. To further the ambiguity, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a prominent Apple insider, recently shared that a foldable iPad is unlikely to be available until 2028.

That said, there remains a chance that a foldable iPhone could make its debut in 2026. Notably, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also identified that year as a feasible launch period for Apple’s inaugural foldable phone. Kuo projects that the device could retail for as much as $2,000, though he hasn’t disclosed any intentions for a foldable iPad. Gurman supports the 2026 schedule for the iPhone, but thus far, Pu is the only one predicting that a foldable iPad will arrive in the same timeframe. This implies that someone’s timeline may be inaccurate — we just don’t know whose it is yet.

In the meantime, Apple’s rivals have been making advancements in the foldable market. Samsung continues to thrive with its Galaxy Fold series, and Google made a return to the market last year with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This positions Apple as the largest smartphone manufacturer in the U.S. without a foldable device available.

Will that shift in 18 months? It’s possible. Apple could unveil one foldable device, two, or perhaps none. As always, only time will reveal the outcome.