Apple could launch an 18-inch foldable device by 2028

Research company Omdia has created a roadmap for Apple’s upcoming devices, and they reveal interesting insights into the company’s future plans.

In a now-deleted X post, leaker Jukanlosreve seemingly obtained the information about what Omdia thinks is on the horizon.

The most exciting part of the plan is an 18.8-inch foldable device that’s expected to debut in 2028. Given its size, this is unlikely to be a smartphone. Instead, it is speculated that the device could be Apple’s answer to hybrids like the Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED– a combination of laptop and tablet.

According to Omdia’s roadmap, Apple also plans to gradually introduce OLED displays in its product lines:

• 2026: iPad Mini (8.4 inches) will have an OLED panel with LTPS (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon) technology. In the same year, the Macbook Pro models (14- and 16 inches) will also introduced with OLED, but advanced LTPO versions
• 2027: iPad Air (11- and 13 inches) get OLED screens
• 2028: iPad Pro models get an improved ‘tandem OLED’ display, while the MacBook Air also gets its OLED upgrade

OLED technology offers significant improvements in screen quality, including better colour reproduction and energy efficiency. Apple’s gradual transition to OLED, starting with smaller products like the iPad Mini, marks a step towards revitalising its entire product line with state-of-the-art display technology.

Of course, the company already has an OLED device in the form of the 2024 iPad Pro.

Exactly how the foldable 18-inch device fits into the Apple ecosystem remains unclear, but its potential use as a laptop-tablet hybrid could herald a new era of Apple products.

In the meantime, see our guides to the currest best iPhones and best iPads you can buy.