Apple’s highly anticipated 18-inch foldable iPad may not arrive as soon as expected. According to new industry reports, the tech giant is facing engineering challenges that have pushed back the launch timeline of the innovative tablet to 2029 or later. Originally targeted for a 2028 debut, Apple’s first foldable iPad—internally codenamed J312—is undergoing complex development and design refinements in collaboration with Samsung Display.
Sources reveal that Apple’s foldable iPad will feature an aluminium body on both sides and could mimic the look of a MacBook when folded. When opened, the tablet will reportedly measure around 13 inches, providing a laptop-like experience on a compact foldable screen. The foldable panel is said to utilise OLED display technology, designed to minimise the crease typically seen on foldable devices.
The project’s technical difficulties stem from balancing durability, display quality, and weight, as prototypes currently weigh around 3.5 pounds (1.59 kg)—heavier than existing iPad models. Additionally, production costs are projected to be nearly three times higher than the current 13-inch iPad Pro, resulting in an estimated price tag of $3,000 (approximately ₹2.63 lakh).
Apple’s foldable iPad will reportedly share similarities with Huawei’s MateBook Fold, which also features an 18-inch flexible OLED display. However, Apple’s version is expected to deliver superior build quality, advanced hinge mechanics, and refined software integration with iPadOS.
Meanwhile, Apple continues to expand its product lineup with innovations like the iPhone Air and the upcoming foldable iPhone, set to launch in 2026. The company is also preparing to refresh its iPad Air and entry-level iPad models, expected to debut next year with M4 and A18 chips respectively.
The development of foldable devices aligns with Apple’s broader goal of redefining portable computing. Once launched, the foldable iPad could position Apple as a major force in the foldable market, competing with established players like Samsung and Huawei.