One of the next major innovations in the Mac range will be the integration of a foldable MacBook. Rumors have been talking about it for several years and Apple engineers are said to be working on the project. However, Apple’s management, which has quality and reliability requirements far beyond what one can imagine, is not satisfied with the current results, which could cause a long wait before Apple markets a foldable MacBook!
The foldable MacBook? Not before the end of 2027
Rumors surrounding a foldable MacBook aren’t new, but it looks like foldable fans will have to wait longer than expected to see this revolutionary product on the market. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the foldable MacBook might not be available until late 2027 or even 2028 due to complex technical challenges Apple engineers are currently facing.
Apple has reportedly made impressive progress in developing this new type of device, but designing a foldable MacBook has its challenges. While the progress is promising, Apple engineers are reportedly facing specific hurdles related to the device’s folding mechanism. Kuo’s report didn’t specify whether these issues are due to the display’s fragility or other technical aspects, but it’s clear that these challenges are slowing down the launch schedule.
Concept of a foldable MacBook
The idea of a foldable MacBook isn’t pure speculation. Analysts like Ross Young, Jeff Pu, and Ming-Chi Kuo have all reported that Apple is actively working on the project. This information, obtained through inside sources, indicates that development of the foldable MacBook has been underway for several years. The screen sizes currently mentioned in reports range from 20.2 inches to 18.8 inches, suggesting a device that could offer a new user experience.
Apple’s foldable MacBook promises to redefine the way we interact with our laptops. When folded, the device could integrate a full-size virtual keyboard directly into the screen, offering uncompromising portability. When unfolded, the foldable MacBook could be used as a regular computer, allowing for a variety of uses ranging from simple everyday use to more demanding professional applications. It is also expected that the device could be paired with an external keyboard to transform the whole thing into a true large-screen workstation.
In terms of production, LG Display, one of Apple’s potential suppliers, is reportedly planning to start mass production of the displays for this foldable MacBook in the last quarter of 2025. However, with the potential delay in the launch, it is possible that the specifications of the device will still undergo changes between now and then, in order to overcome the current technical challenges and refine the user experience.
While the foldable MacBook seems to be a future reality rather than a mere concept, it will likely be a few years before we can enjoy it. The technical challenges remain a major obstacle, but the potential for innovation offered by this product could well be worth the long wait.
Foldable MacBook survey update – mass production delayed significantly
1. Final display size spec confirmed at 18.8 inches. Apple has canceled the 20.25-inch design.
2. Due to technical challenges with the display and mechanics, the assembly mass production schedule has been… https://t.co/mPviHVeK0x— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) August 22, 2024