Apple is working on a large 18.8-inch foldable device, which will enter mass production in the second half of next year. The device will run macOS instead of iPadOS, automatically positioning it as a Mac rather than an iPad. To bolster battery life, the company is prioritizing efficient foldable display technology.
Apple is focusing on power efficiency when it comes to foldable displays, allowing the devices to feature enhanced battery life
As mentioned, if Apple's foldable device enters mass production in the second half of 2026, we can expect it to be available by the end of next year or in the first half of 2027. The company is also working to make its devices slimmer, and the iPhone 17 Air will be its first device with an ultra-thin form factor. Possibly, the larger 18.8-inch foldable Mac and the foldable iPhone will also feature a slimmer design, which could impact battery life due to a lower capacity.
According to the leaker "Phone Chip Expert" on Weibo, Apple's first foldable display will prioritize power efficiency. To achieve higher efficiency levels, the company has successfully reduced the display driver integrated circuit, which was previously noted to be 28nm, down to 16nm. This is a significant advancement in reducing power consumption, as the display driver will now achieve the same performance levels while being more efficient.
As mentioned, Apple is expected to unveil its large 18.8-inch foldable device soon, which will be part of its Mac lineup, based on a recent report. We could possibly see the advanced display drivers in action. Jeff Pu recently claimed that Apple's foldable device has entered the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, with mass production set to begin in the second half of 2026.
The source is quite credible, having previously shared accurate details on Apple building its servers for Apple Intelligence, as well as additional information on the iPhone. However, since the final word rests with Apple, we have to take the news with a pinch of salt. Apple's foldable devices are gradually taking shape, and we will see the final product in the coming years. We will share more details on the foldable Mac, so be sure to stick around.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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