Apple iPad Fold could cost almost $4,000 but launch late

For years, rumors have circulated that Apple is developing an iPad Pro with a foldable display and a screen size of around 18 inches. However, it remains unclear whether the company will ultimately market this device as an iPad or a Mac. A new report from Bloomberg now reveals further details about the delayed flagship tablet, which will not launch until 2029 at the earliest.

Apple's engineers supposedly struggle with reducing the weight below 3.5 lbs and developing a foldable display with an almost invisible crease. Apple is developing this panel in collaboration with Samsung Display. The price could also become a problem, as current estimates suggest that an iPad Fold could cost about three times as much as the iPad Pro 13 (on sale from $1,188 on Amazon), so the device could retail for as much as $3,900.

The Huawei MateBook Fold clearly illustrates how far Apple is lagging behind in this particular market segment. Huawei’s foldable has been available for months with an 18-inch display and a weight of just 2.56 lbs. It’s also more affordable and costs the equivalent of under $3,500, at least compared to the even higher rumored MSRP of the iPad Fold. According to Bloomberg, the Apple iPad Fold will have almost the same form factor as the MateBook Fold and will look like a conventional 13-inch laptop when closed. Apple has reportedly opted against a second display.