Apple's Folding Future: The Next Big Thing in iPad Technology?

Apple's Foldable iPad Rumored to Feature Under-Display Face ID

Overview

• Date: March 10, 2025
• Author: Mike Wuerthele

Key Points

Under-Display Face ID

• A prototype of Apple's folding iPad is rumored to have a "metal superstructure lens" that incorporates the Face ID infrared projectors underneath the screen.
• This design could lead to incredibly thin bezels on the device.
• The technology has been a long-standing rumor for iPhones as well, but it hasn't materialized yet.

Design and Size

• The folding iPad is expected to be approximately the size of two iPad Pro tablets side-by-side, with an estimated 18.8-inch screen.
• This design would make it easier to carry than a single large tablet with a nearly 20-inch diagonal screen.
• It could serve as a giant notebook computer with a screen instead of a keyboard and trackpad, similar to the failed Microsoft Courier and Surface Neo.

Operating System

• The device is expected to run on iPadOS or a variant, not a true iPad-Mac hybrid.
• Apple has repeatedly stated it doesn't intend to merge the iPad and Mac product lines into a single category.

Release Timeline

• Reports suggest a release sometime in 2028.
• A smaller foldable iPad with an 8-inch display is also rumored for 2026.

Potential Uses

• The large iPad workspace could be useful for users on the move.
• It may act as a MacBook replacement without requiring a Magic Keyboard.
• The device could run a hybrid iPadOS operating system, combining elements from both iPad and Mac worlds.

Patent History

• Apple has filed multiple patents for foldable devices with hinged OLED screens.
• These patents describe various uses for the lower display, including context-sensitive controls and keyless keyboards with force-sensing and haptic feedback.
• Another patent mentions raised key sections on a display panel to provide a more tactile feel.