Julie Clover
Apple is working to expand OLED display technology to several additional iPad models, including a future foldable iPad, according to analyst firm Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC).
The 8.5-inch OLED iPad mini is scheduled for release in 2026, with 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Air models expected to follow in 2027. With the iPad Air and iPad mini getting OLED display technology, most of Apple's lineup except for the low-cost iPad is expected to have OLED displays by 2027.
The DSCC also expects an 18.8-inch foldable iPad Pro with an OLED display to launch in 2027. There have been several rumors suggesting that a foldable iPad or MacBook will be among Apple's first foldable devices, including a report from The Wall Street Journal over the weekend. The WSJ reported that Apple is working on a larger foldable device that is “designed to be used as a laptop” and that would unfold to a size of about 19 inches. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman also highlighted the foldable iPad this weekend, suggesting that the “giant” tablet will launch in 2028. According to Gurman, Apple doesn't want the upcoming foldable device to have a crease, but instead to look like a single piece of glass.
Rumors are unclear as to whether the upcoming foldable device will be an iPad or a Mac, but either is possible depending on which operating system Apple chooses.
While the iPhone and Apple Watch have used OLED displays for years, it took a while for larger OLED displays to become affordable enough to use in Macs and iPads. This year, Apple debuted its first OLED iPads, unveiling the 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Pros. models.
Related reviews: iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPad mini, MacBook AirTags: foldable iPad, foldable MacBookBuyers Guide: iPad Air (neutral), iPad Pro (neutral), iPad Mini (buy now), 15-inch MacBook Air (neutral), 13-inch MacBook Air (warning)Related forums: iPad, MacBook Air[ 50 comments ]
