Foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid device to be released with macOS Apfelpatient

According to analyst reports, Apple is working on its first foldable devices. Mass production is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. One of these devices could be an 18.8-inch MacBook-iPad hybrid, possibly running macOS. This would be a notable step, given Apple's history of opposing touchscreen Macs. The information comes from Jeff Pu, an analyst at GF Securities, who bases his predictions on research and reports, including from the Wall Street Journal. If Apple does indeed develop such a device, it could fundamentally change the way we use MacBooks and iPads.

Foldable displays are no longer just an experiment. Samsung, Lenovo, and other manufacturers have already launched models. Apple has so far held back, although patents and concepts continue to surface. If the company does indeed introduce a foldable device in 2026 or 2027, it would be a clear indication that Apple intends to establish a new product category. So far, Apple has relied on iPadOS for its iPads and macOS for its Macs, without fully merging the two platforms. A MacBook-iPad hybrid with a touchscreen and macOS could dissolve this strict separation.

A foldable MacBook or a large iPad?

Jeff Pu is talking about two foldable Apple devices. The first would be a foldable iPhone with a 7.8-inch internal display. The second device would be a foldable laptop with an 18.8-inch display. It is said to be designed as a hybrid between a MacBook and an iPad. The choice of operating system would be crucial. Pu believes the larger device will run macOS. This would be a significant departure from Apple's previous strategy. MacBooks currently do not have touchscreens because Apple has optimized macOS for mouse and keyboard inputs. If that were to change, Apple would have to adapt its operating system. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman recently reported that iOS 19 and macOS 16 could introduce new designs to better support future hardware. This could include foldable devices and Macs with touchscreens. However, there is no indication that Apple will launch a touchscreen Mac as early as 2025 (via GF Securities).

Foldable iPhones and iPads: Apple plans production in 2026

Why a macOS tablet would be unusual

If Apple is truly planning a foldable 18.8-inch device with macOS, it would raise several questions. MacBooks rely on a keyboard and trackpad, iPads on touch input. A device with macOS and a touchscreen would either have to have a redesigned user interface or offer a new input concept. So far, Apple has been very consistent in keeping MacBooks and iPads separate. iPadOS is optimized for touch, macOS for mouse and keyboard control. A device that combines both would have to offer either hybrid operation or enable a new workflow. There are also doubts about the technical challenges. A laptop-sized foldable display would have to be durable and stable enough for everyday use. Previous foldable displays often have issues with durability and creasing. Apple would have to find a solution that meets the company's quality standards.

How likely is a foldable macOS device?

Whether Apple will actually release a foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid device running macOS remains to be seen. Analysts' forecasts are based on supplier contacts and market analyses, not on official statements from Apple. So far, there's no concrete evidence that Apple is working on a touchscreen Mac. However, it's a possibility, as Apple is already planning design changes to macOS. If the company is indeed developing a foldable device, it likely won't launch until next year at the earliest. For users, the question is whether such a hybrid device would offer added value. MacBooks running macOS are designed for traditional operation, while iPads running iPadOS are designed for touch and mobility. A foldable device would have to meaningfully combine both worlds without compromising user-friendliness. Whether Apple takes this step remains to be seen in the coming years. What is clear is that foldable devices will remain a major topic in the industry, and Apple will have to position itself on them at some point. (Photo by Amelie11 / Bigstockphoto)