The folding iPad is already in full development and would arrive earlier than expected

Apple is in the midst of a project that promises to revolutionize the iPad experience: a foldable iPad. According to recent reports from DigiTimes, the device is in an “intensive development” phase and could be unveiled by the end of 2024.

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This time seems to be the definitive one

This is not the first rumor we’ve heard about a foldable Apple device. According to the publication, the company has been working on foldable products for the past four years and has made multiple design changes during this time. However, what stands out in the information published this time is the focus on the iPad, unlike previous rumors that suggested a foldable iPhone.

The strategy behind this decision appears to be pragmatic: the iPad represents a smaller proportion of the company’s total sales, meaning that any potential mistakes would be easier to handle and have a lesser impact on the market. Although the idea of a foldable iPad sounds interesting, there are still technical challenges to overcome before its market arrival.

One of the main obstacles is the design of the screen and hinges. Apple’s primary concern is the wrinkling or creasing effect on the screen when folded, which could significantly impact the user experience and the device’s durability.

According to DigiTimes, Apple is in talks with Samsung and LG, leaders in display manufacturing, to design a solution that minimizes this effect. The device’s design itself has not been finalized yet. In the initial stages, Apple’s product design team led the project. However, recently, control seems to have shifted to the procurement department with the goal of cutting costs to make the device affordable for the market while still maintaining a viable design.

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Despite the challenges, expectations are high. While Google is reportedly working on a new foldable phone and Samsung is addressing issues with the Fold 5, DigiTimes predicts that this iPad could boost Apple’s iPad sales, countering the declining trend. If all goes as planned, mass production of this first foldable iPad would start by late 2024 or early 2025. Only time will tell if this foldable iPad becomes another success for the company; in the meantime, the landscape looks quite intriguing.