Apple is expected to switch from mini-LED technology to OLED for its iPad Pro family for the first time in 2024, with these panels eventually trickling down to the company’s premium MacBook range. Additionally, a new report states that the Cupertino firm is exploring the possibility of developing foldable iPad models, though it does not have a solid launch timeline. It is likely that the first tablets sporting this unique form factor will arrive a few years after the OLED iPad Pro’s inception.
A foldable iPad makes more sense than bringing the technology to the iPhone because of additional failure points
As more and more of Apple’s competitors get onto the foldable bandwagon, the iPad maker will eventually have to gravitate towards this form factor as a way to maintain pace with other companies in adopting newer technologies. According to Nikkei, two people familiar with Apple’s plans claim that it is evaluating the possibility of launching foldable iPads, but that can happen only after the two OLED variants launch next year.
The company also has plans to mass produce a MacBook with the same panel in the second half of 2025, meaning that it may launch at the end of that year or be unveiled in early 2026. Given that multiple reports provide an estimated timeline for OLED MacBooks and iPads but none for Apple’s foldable products, which hints that the company may not wish to enter this category until after a few years.
This is because the technology will mature to a point where a reliable supply chain has been established that can provide a steady shipment of necessary components, at competitive prices. Another reason for Apple being hesitant with a foldable iPad launch is the increased number of failure points.
A foldable device has several moving parts, and while it will be convenient for users to reduce the size of their tablet and turn it into something that can easily slide into their backpacks, a higher number of folds increases its chances of internal failure. This, in turn, means that it will cost Apple millions when offering free replacements to customers who have had their devices abruptly fail.
Then again, Samsung would not be rumored to have reorganized its entire display team to work with Apple on future foldable products if the company had no intentions of launching them in the future. We just have to muster up some patience and wait for the actual launch.
News Source: Nikkei
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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