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Apple reportedly cancels development of large foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid

A research note indicates that plans for a foldable device between 16 and 20 inches have been halted.

The short version

  • Market research firm Omdia reports that Apple has canceled development plans for 16.1-inch to 18-inch foldable MacBooks.
  • The project corresponds to a rumored roughly 18- to 20-inch foldable hybrid device previously cited as a priority for Apple hardware chief John Ternus.
  • It remains unconfirmed whether Apple will permanently shelve the hybrid format or revisit it following future foldable product launches.

Key facts

  • An Omdia research note stated that Apple canceled product plans for 16.1-inch to 18-inch foldable MacBooks.[9to5Mac]
  • The canceled hardware aligns with previous reports of an 18- to 20-inch foldable iPad and Mac hybrid that had been under internal development.[9to5Mac]
  • Industry reporter Mark Gurman previously reported that the foldable hybrid was a priority for Apple hardware executive John Ternus, though contributors noted it might not reach market.[9to5Mac]
  • Earlier supply chain projections had slated a potential launch window around 2026 before expectations shifted to 2028 prior to the reported cancellation.[9to5Mac]

What remains uncertain

  • Apple has not publicly confirmed the existence, internal status, or cancellation of any large foldable hybrid project.[9to5Mac]
  • It is unclear whether Apple will permanently shelve the format or reassess development based on the market reception of other anticipated foldable devices.[9to5Mac]

Sources