Apple reportedly delays 18-inch foldable iPad to 2029 amid technical hurdles

Apple has been developing a large 18-inch foldable iPad for several years, but its launch window has reportedly slipped from 2028 to no earlier than 2029 due to engineering challenges. Multiple reports summarizing Bloomberg’s coverage point to issues with weight, display crease minimization, and overall cost as the main blockers.

What changed

• Timeline: Internal targets have moved back roughly a year, from 2028 to 2029.
• Prototype weight: Reported prototypes are heavy (around laptop-class), driving comfort and usability concerns.
• Display engineering: Apple is said to be working with display suppliers to reduce the visible crease on a large flexible OLED panel.
• Price pressure: Estimates suggest a potential retail price in the $3,000–$4,000 range if/when it ships.

Key hurdles (reported)

• Weight and balance: Achieving tablet comfort at ~18 inches while integrating robust hinge and battery systems.
• Crease and durability: Minimizing the fold line over years of opening/closing without compromising panel longevity.
• Hinge complexity: Maintaining thinness and rigidity while protecting the display during movement.
• Cost structure: Large flexible OLEDs, hinges, and premium materials push BOM and MSRP higher than current iPad Pro.

Rumored design notes

• Form factor: When closed, it could resemble a compact Mac laptop; opened, it approaches a 13-inch-class workspace.
• External display: Early prototypes reportedly lack a secondary outer screen.
• Suppliers: Ongoing work with panel partners (reportedly including Samsung Display) to improve crease and yield.

Competitive context

Foldables continue to evolve across the industry. Huawei’s MateBook Fold is already in market, and several PC/tablet makers have experimented with large folding displays. Apple appears to be pushing for a higher durability and visual quality bar before committing to mass production.

Why it matters

• New category for iPad: A folding iPad would be Apple’s first large-format foldable, bridging tablet and ultraportable workflows.
• Trade-offs: Any launch will balance weight, crease visibility, battery life, and price—areas where Apple historically sets strict thresholds.
• Roadmap signal: Delays suggest Apple is prioritizing long-term reliability over rushing first-to-market.

Sources and further reading

• 9to5Mac: Foldable 18-inch iPad timing and pricing expectations
• iClarified: Development hurdles and 2029 timing
• Notebookcheck: Pricing and delay overview
• DigiTimes: Display supply context

Note: These details are based on reporting and industry sources; Apple has not officially announced a foldable iPad.

Discussion: If Apple ships a foldable iPad near $3,000–$4,000 in 2029, would the larger canvas and portability be worth it—or would you stick with a standard iPad/Mac combo?