Apple has paused development of its much-anticipated foldable iPad, according to supply chain sources cited by DigiTimes, citing concerns over manufacturing complexity, display durability, and insufficient consumer demand. The move signals a recalibration of Apple's foldable ambitions as it shifts focus to a foldable iPhone expected to debut with the iPhone 18 Pro lineup in 2026.
The reported halt comes after years of speculation and prototyping around a foldable tablet or notebook-style device, rumored to feature an 18.8- to 20.2-inch OLED display and crease-free design. However, multiple sources now say that the Cupertino-based company has encountered persistent roadblocks, including high production costs and challenges associated with flexible display materials.
"Apple would need to use a thicker front glass on the foldable iPhone that is chemically treated to get rid of the crease," said display industry analyst Ross Young. That added complexity would significantly increase Apple's production expenses.
Apple's tablet division, which brought in $6.4 billion in revenue during its Q2 2025 earnings call, remains a key business segment, but growth has stagnated. Analysts point to extended upgrade cycles and a declining utility gap between iPads and iPhones or MacBooks. Foldable tablets-despite generating media attention-have yet to prove themselves as mass-market products.
The company has reportedly opted to delay the foldable iPad indefinitely rather than risk introducing a high-priced device with uncertain sales performance. Sources cited by Wccftech and Digitimes noted that profitability concerns and modest market interest are among the major reasons for shelving the product, despite internal progress in design and hardware engineering.
While Apple hasn't officially confirmed the pause, industry watchers interpret the decision as a temporary step back rather than a permanent abandonment. As flexible OLED display technology matures and production costs fall, Apple may revisit foldable tablets or MacBooks in the coming years.
Meanwhile, development of a foldable iPhone continues. The next-gen device is rumored to feature a titanium alloy chassis, 48MP camera system, and a unique 14.1:10 aspect ratio in a book-style form factor. If timelines hold, the foldable iPhone could be unveiled alongside Apple's flagship iPhone 18 Pro models next year.
