Apple is working with suppliers to develop a foldable iPad device
Apple is working with suppliers to develop a foldable iPad device
Apple is working on developing a foldable iPad device, and production on a small scale is expected to commence by the end of 2024. This suggests that Apple may announce the product in late 2024 or early 2025. This device represents Apple's entry into the foldable design space, and it may be followed by a foldable iPhone.
While other companies like Samsung, Huawei, and Lenovo have launched foldable smartphones and tablets, Apple has not taken a similar step until now.
Supply chain sources indicate that Apple has been working on this technology for four years and has been continuously improving the design. The company may begin large-scale production by the end of 2024 based on current progress, even though the design is not yet finalized.
The primary development focus for Apple's first foldable device is on the display and hinge. Talks are underway with companies like Samsung and LG to provide Apple with foldable screens. Apple is also concerned about screen creasing, but mechanical technology makes creasing less noticeable to users.
The current hinge has been designed for performance, but the company is working on improving cost and ease of production. Small-scale production may start in early late 2024, with mass production in 2025.
The first foldable product from Apple centers around an iPad device, with later plans to integrate foldable iPhone designs.
The responsibility for designing new products at Apple has been shifted to the procurement department due to the growing importance of cost. The goal of this change is to achieve cost-effective production by simplifying designs, which is why there are ongoing changes in the foldable product design.
Apple chooses to enter the foldable device market using a tablet rather than a smartphone due to the compatibility of the iPadOS operating system with the foldable device and the smaller tablet market compared to smartphones. This makes the potential impact of any device flaws less on the brand, and the company can manage damages effectively.
