Apple’s Foldable Future: iPhone+MacBook Hybrid In The Works? What We Know So Far

The foldable iPhone is currently in the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn.

Apple’s foldable iPhone could feature an 8-inch display.

Source : Unsplash/Vasanth

Apple is reportedly developing two foldable devices — a foldable iPhone and a larger foldable gadget with an 18.8-inch display. The most intriguing aspect of the larger device is its rumoured operating system, macOS, instead of iPadOS. If true, this could mark Apple’s first step toward touchscreen Macs.

The latest insights come from analyst Jeff Pu, who recently revealed that Apple is working on more than one foldable product. While earlier reports hinted at a single foldable iPhone, Pu claims Apple’s strategy includes a foldable iPhone with a 7.8-inch inner display and a larger MacBook-like foldable device. His findings suggest that Apple is pushing forward with a foldable ecosystem that may redefine its product lineup.

Foldable iPhone: Expected Features & Launch Timeline

Pu’s report indicates that the foldable iPhone is currently in the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, Apple’s key manufacturing partner. The next step is early prototyping, scheduled for April 2025. If all goes as planned, mass production is expected to begin in the second half of 2026.

Industry reports suggest that Apple’s foldable iPhone could feature an 8-inch display, positioning it as a direct competitor to existing foldable phones from Samsung and Huawei. However, Apple’s approach to foldables may emphasise durability and software optimisations over just hardware design.

MacBook-iPad Hybrid: A Game-Changer For Apple?

The second rumoured foldable device is expected to be a hybrid between a MacBook and an iPad, featuring an 18.8-inch display. The most significant detail about this device is the possibility of it running macOS instead of iPadOS, hinting at Apple’s willingness to embrace touch functionality on its Mac lineup. If realised, this could revolutionise how Mac users interact with their devices.

Pu’s predictions align with a recent Wall Street Journal report that suggested Apple is working on foldable devices aimed at replacing traditional laptops. According to the report, one of the devices could feature a massive 19-inch foldable display, potentially becoming the largest MacBook ever.

Software Updates To Support Foldable Innovation?

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has also weighed in on Apple’s foldable ambitions. In his latest Power On newsletter, he hinted that upcoming software updates — iOS 19 and macOS 16 — could introduce new features to support foldable designs and touchscreen Macs.

This indicates that Apple’s foldable push isn’t just about hardware; the company is also ensuring its software ecosystem evolves to accommodate new form factors.

Apple’s Foldable Plans: Reality Or Speculation?

While these reports fuel excitement, it’s important to note that Apple has yet to officially confirm any foldable projects. However, the company’s continued patent filings suggest a keen interest in foldable display technology.

Whether Apple’s foldable devices materialise in the near future remains uncertain, but the possibility of a foldable iPhone and a macOS-powered hybrid laptop is becoming harder to ignore.

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