Apple's vision for the future of foldable tech just hit a significant speed bump. According to a new report, the company’s largest foldable device, one that’s expected to feature an expansive 18.8-inch inner display, will not enter mass production anytime soon. While many were hoping for a 2026 launch, industry insiders now say the wait could extend beyond 2027, pushing this ambitious device further into the future.
The update comes from analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities, who revealed in a research note that Apple has delayed mass production of this large-screen foldable. The timeline initially pointed to late 2026, but things seem to have shifted due to internal adjustments. That means fans dreaming of a hybrid device that blends MacBook and iPad functionality in a foldable form factor will need to be patient.
Interestingly, this delay does not appear to affect Apple’s smaller foldable plans. The iPhone 18 Fold is still expected to launch as planned in September 2026, alongside the broader iPhone 18 series. This model will likely mark Apple’s official entry into the foldable smartphone segment and is expected to rival Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, which could arrive around the same time.
So what exactly is the delayed 18.8-inch device? While Apple has not made any public statements about it, industry watchers believe it will be positioned as a revolutionary hybrid that bridges the gap between portable productivity and entertainment. It may function like a MacBook and an iPad, offering a flexible display without a visible crease and running a version of iOS that’s specially adapted for foldables.
Earlier leaks suggested that Samsung would supply the crease-free display, while a company named Fine M-Tec would be responsible for building the hinge and metal backplate. The entire experience is expected to run on iOS 27, which will debut with the iPhone 18 series. But with production now pushed back, even the earliest glimpses of this device could be years away.
Meanwhile, expectations around the iPhone 17 series are somewhat subdued. Analysts believe this year’s models will offer only minor upgrades over the iPhone 16 lineup, which has shifted attention and excitement toward the more transformative iPhone 18 lineup.
The foldable wars are heating up, and Apple is taking its time to get things right. Whether it’s perfecting the hinge mechanism or building a seamless user experience across devices, Apple seems to be playing the long game. And in typical Apple fashion, the delay may not hurt the product’s impact if anything, it might raise anticipation even more.
For the latest updates on Apple, foldable tech, and everything happening in the world of innovation, follow Tech Moves on Instagram and Facebook.
