Foldable iPad Pro and OLED iPad Air Expected in 2027, OLED iPad Mini to Launch in 2026

Gist Tech

Gist Tech

— 2 min read
  • Apple is set to launch an 8.5-inch OLED iPad Mini in 2026 and 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Air models in 2027, expanding its OLED display technology.
  • An 18.8-inch foldable iPad Pro with OLED display is also expected to debut in 2027, alongside ongoing discussions about Apple's first foldable device.
  • The transition to OLED displays for most of Apple's iPad lineup, except for the low-cost model, aims to enhance visual quality, similar to existing OLED technologies used in iPhones and Apple Watches.

According to analyst firm Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), Apple is set to broaden its OLED display technology across various iPad models, which includes the anticipated launch of a foldable iPad. A 8.5-inch OLED iPad Mini is scheduled for introduction in 2026, followed by 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Air models in 2027. With the iPad Air and iPad Mini transitioning to OLED technology, it is anticipated that by 2027, the majority of Apple's iPad lineup will consist of OLED displays, with the exception of the budget-friendly iPad.

DSCC also forecasts a significant evolution in design, with multiple reports indicating that a foldable iPad or MacBook could be among Apple's initial offerings in the foldable device market. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Apple is developing a larger foldable device aimed to function as a laptop, measuring approximately 19 inches when unfolded. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman additionally mentioned a foldable iPad in recent discussions, projecting its potential launch for 2028. Gurman indicated that Apple aims to eliminate any visible crease in the device's design, preferring it to appear as a seamless piece of glass.

The current rumors surrounding this forthcoming foldable device have yet to clarify whether it will be an iPad or a Mac; both options remain plausible based on Apple's choice of operating system.

While iPhones and the Apple Watch have utilized OLED displays for several years, the production of larger OLED displays that are cost-effective for Macs and iPads has taken time. Apple recently introduced its inaugural OLED iPads, unveiling the 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Pro models.

Apple has plans for significant design and format changes to its iPhone lineup over the upcoming years, as per The Wall Street Journal's Aaron Tilley and Yang Jie. A recent report has confirmed the news surrounding the "iPhone 17 Air," which will feature an "ultrathin" design, surpassing the dimensions of existing iPhone models.

Next year's iPhone 17 Pro models are reported to have a substantial redesign, particularly regarding the rear camera module. Recent supply chain insights support this significant alteration, according to a Chinese leaker.

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