Apple Reportedly Pauses Foldable iPad Development

Apple has reportedly paused the development of its highly anticipated foldable iPad, citing a combination of production complexities, weak consumer demand, and concerns over potential pricing.

Following the iPhone, expanding into foldable devices—particularly tablets—seemed like Apple's logical next move. However, according to multiple reports, the company is now facing significant obstacles that have stalled progress on the foldable iPad project.

Sources suggest that Apple encountered issues including high manufacturing costs, challenges with flexible display technology, and uncertainties surrounding consumer interest in a premium-priced foldable tablet. Industry insiders indicate that if the foldable iPad fails to attract mass-market demand, it may not meet Apple's high-volume profitability targets.

Early prototypes of a foldable iPhone with a book-style design, a 14.1:10 aspect ratio, titanium housing, and a 48MP camera have also surfaced, hinting at Apple’s continued experimentation in the foldable category. Still, a notable leak by Jukanlosreve claims that the foldable iPad's development has been temporarily shelved.

One major barrier lies in the display itself. Apple reportedly sees visible creases on foldable screens as design flaws—something that clashes with its strict quality standards. Analyst Ross Young noted that Apple would need to use chemically strengthened, thicker glass to reduce crease visibility, a move that would further raise production costs.

Despite these setbacks, Apple remains dominant in the global tablet market. In Q2 2025, the iPad business generated $6.4 billion in revenue, underscoring its critical role in Apple's product lineup. However, whether a foldable iPad will ever become part of that lineup remains uncertain.