Apple Set To Kickstart Mass Production Of Foldable iPhone And iPad Pro By Late 2026

Apple Set To Kickstart Mass Production Of Foldable iPhone And iPad Pro By Late 2026

  • 17.03.2025 23:59
  • in.mashable.com
  • Keywords: Apple, Foldable Devices, Mass Production, Foxconn, Jeff Pu, Ming-Chi Kuo

Apple is set to begin mass production of foldable iPhones and iPads by late 2026. The devices reportedly feature innovative designs, including a 7.8-inch display for the iPhone and an 18.8-inch OLED screen for the iPad Pro.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is set to enter the foldable device market with new products including a foldable iPhone and iPad Pro. They are planning mass production by late 2026.

Foxconn

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Analyst rating: N/A

As a key manufacturer, Foxconn plays a crucial role in Apple's foldable devices production process.

Context

Analysis of Apple's Foldable iPhone and iPad Pro Launch

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Mass Production Start: Apple plans to begin mass production of foldable devices by late 2026.
  • Analyst Source: The information comes from analyst Jeff Pu, who shared details with MacRumors.
  • New Product Introduction (NPI) Phase: Foldable devices have entered the NPI phase at Foxconn, a critical manufacturing stage.
  • Prototypes Timeline: Working prototypes of both foldable iPhone and iPad Pro are expected to be ready by April 2025.
  • Foldable iPhone Features:
    • Display Sizes: 7.8-inch main display and 5.5-inch cover display.
    • Innovation: Avoids visible crease when unfolded.
    • Authentication: May feature a side-mounted Touch ID sensor instead of Face ID.
  • Foldable iPad Pro Features:
    • Display Size: 18.8-inch OLED display when unfolded, making it one of the largest foldable devices on the market.
    • Under-Display Technology: Expected to include an under-display Face ID system for secure unlocking.
  • Analyst Predictions: Ming-Chi Kuo also predicted production in Q4 2026, with potential launches in 2027 or 2028.

Market Implications and Business Insights

  • Competitive Landscape: Apple's entry into the foldable market will intensify competition, particularly against Samsung and Huawei, which are already established players in this space.
  • Market Expansion: The foldable iPad Pro, with its large 18.8-inch display, targets productivity and entertainment users, potentially expanding Apple's tablet market share.
  • Design and Innovation: Apple's focus on sleek design, user experience, and innovative features like side-mounted Touch ID could set new standards for foldable devices.
  • Long-Term Effects: The success of these products could redefine consumer expectations for foldable technology, influencing both competitors and future product development.

Strategic Considerations

  • Production Timeline: Apple's delayed entry into the foldable market (with production starting in 2026) suggests a cautious approach to ensure technological maturity and quality.
  • Market Positioning: The foldable iPhone and iPad Pro are positioned to cater to both mainstream consumers and high-end users, leveraging Apple's reputation for premium products.
  • Regulatory Impact: While no specific regulatory hurdles were mentioned, the success of these devices will depend on compliance with global standards for display technology and user authentication.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Samsung and Huawei Rivalry: Apple's entry is expected to elevate competition, pushing Samsung and Huawei to innovate further in foldable smartphone and tablet technologies.
  • Market Share Potential: Apple's brand loyalty and ecosystem integration could give it a significant advantage in capturing market share within the foldable device segment.

Conclusion

Apple's planned launch of foldable iPhone and iPad Pro represents a strategic move into a rapidly evolving market segment. With its focus on innovation, design, and user experience, Apple is poised to set new benchmarks for foldable devices. The success of these products will depend on their ability to deliver on promised features while navigating the competitive landscape of smartphone and tablet markets.