New details are emerging about Apple’s foldable hybrid devices

A recent report by renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed some details about Apple’s future foldable/hybrid devices. “Apple may launch two foldable devices in the first half of 2026,” Kuo said. The latest timeline lines up with rumors that the tablet-sized foldable device won’t arrive until late 2025 or early 2026 at the earliest.

More about Apple’s foldable hybrid devices

Two cases are currently in development: a 20.25-inch model and an 18.8-inch model. When folded, the devices shrink to 14-15 inches and 13-14 inches respectively. As a result, LG has partnered to produce foldable panels for the sole purpose of providing crease-resistant panels. This technology leads to an inevitable increase in costs, and early estimates put the price range for the panel alone at $600-$650. In addition, the devices will be equipped with expensive hinges, the cost of which is estimated at $200-250. Amphenol was chosen as the supplier of Apple hinges.

Finally, these foldable devices will be powered by the company’s own M5 series chip, which will hopefully bring significant competition to a field that was once heavily dominated. Kuo also provides a rough estimate of the total cost of these devices. If initial reports are true, Apple’s first foldable device could cost as much as the current Vision Pro if it’s the initial version. Samsung and Huawei also debuted with very high prices. And yet, despite the high price, shipments will likely be better than the cheaper Vision Pro, with sources saying it will be 1 million units.

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All this is a great support for Apple’s initiatives in the foldable device market. Apple says it is prioritizing advanced technology and high-quality components so that we can “provide users with the best possible experience.” The agreement with LG to have the only crease-resistant panels outside of those built by Samsung itself, as well as the decision to use high-integrity Amphenol hinges, demonstrate the attention to long-term quality.

As such, Apple’s potential early 2026 launch of two foldable devices featuring advanced, crease-free panels with expensive hinges powered by the M5-series chip paints a picture of a potentially big player in the foldable market segment. The expected high price, similar to that of the Vision Pro, reflects the premium nature of these devices, and expected shipments will be relatively high at approximately 1 million units.

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