Apple is reportedly developing a new foldable device with an 18.8-inch display, which could be a unique blend of an iPad and a Mac. According to Jeff Pu, an analyst at investment firm GF Securities, this upcoming device is expected to run on MacOS rather than iPadOS. If this claim proves accurate, it could signal Appleโs shift towards touchscreen-compatible Mac devices.
For years, Apple has been firm in its stance that macOS is not designed for touch, and the company has resisted calls to create a touchscreen Mac. Instead, Apple has positioned the iPad as its primary touch-based computing device, maintaining a clear distinction between macOS and iPadOS. However, the emergence of a foldable device running macOS may indicate a change in direction.
Could this mean touchscreen Macs are on the way?
Puโs report aligns with earlier predictions from Bloombergโs Mark Gurman, who suggested that Appleโs upcoming software updatesโiOS 19 and macOS Sequoia 16โwould introduce major design changes. Gurman hinted that these updates might be tailored for new hardware, including foldable devices and touchscreen-enabled Macs.
This potential shift is significant because, until now, Apple has been reluctant to merge the functionality of iPads and Macs. The company has continuously stated that macOS and iPadOS serve different purposes, with macOS being optimised for cursor-based navigation and iPadOS focusing on touch controls. However, the lines between these two platforms could blur if Apple moves forward with a foldable macOS device.
Expected launch timeline
Despite the excitement of these rumours, Apple is not expected to release its foldable iPad-Mac hybrid anytime soon. Industry reports suggest the device could debut in late 2026 or even 2027. This timeline indicates that Apple is still refining the concept and ensuring that macOS can function effectively on a touch-based, foldable device.
While Apple has yet to confirm any details, the idea of a foldable Mac running macOS raises intriguing possibilities for the future of computing. As the company continues to innovate, this device could mark a major evolution in Appleโs approach to hybrid computing.
