Apple expected to launch foldable iPad first instead of foldable iPhone

WEB DESK: Apple’s impending foray into the foldable device market, a territory it had previously shied away from, seems to be approaching. Initial media speculations focused on the development of a foldable iPad rather than a foldable iPhone, primarily based on insights from prominent analysts.

However, recent developments indicate increasing substantiation for this assertion. A recent report suggests that a foldable iPad is poised for production in the upcoming year and might even be available for purchase within the same timeframe.

According to reports, Apple is gearing up and working closely with its suppliers to introduce its inaugural foldable iPad.

Insiders from the supply chain indicate that limited-scale production of this foldable iPad is expected to kick off by late 2024.

Evidently, Apple is resolute in establishing its presence in the foldable device market, although it has not yet revealed its design for this endeavour.

Another source also hints at Apple’s preliminary focus on deploying this technology on larger devices, such as the iPad, before extending it to iPhones.

A publication’s insights suggest that Apple’s primary aim is to achieve cost-effective production by adopting a more straightforward design approach.

Furthermore, the source contends that Apple’s decision to prioritize the iPad over the iPhone is influenced by the similarities between iPadOS and the iOS operating system used in iPhones.

Another factor influencing Apple’s choice to debut its foldable technology with the iPad is the associated risks, considering that the iPad contributes a smaller share of Apple’s overall revenue compared to its flagship iPhone product.

Read more: How to receive regular calls and messages on ‘non-PTA’ iPhones

In parallel developments, Apple has reportedly released the Release Candidate (RC) versions of iOS 17.1 to both public testers and developers. iOS 17 is the latest operating system for iPhones, which became available to users worldwide last month, introducing new features like Live Voicemail, Contact Posters, and the Journal app.

Although the release encountered some initial issues, particularly with iPhone 15 users reporting overheating problems, these were subsequently addressed with an iOS 17 update.

These foldable iPads may appear highly appealing to Apple fans worldwide, including Pakistanis who have increasingly embraced Apple products. Despite the absence of an official Apple store in Pakistan, people still manage to purchase or import them.