Apple has reportedly delayed a highly anticipated device due to ‘technical challenges.’
The foldable MacBook, which has been rumored since 2019, was set to roll out next year, but has been pushed until early 2026 or as late as 2028.
The computer is expected to have a dual use of a notebook with an on-screen keyboard when it’s folded or could be used as a monitor with an external keyboard when unfolded.
Apple is facing issues with the display and mechanical components for the 18.8-inch screen size that uses one touch-screen on both the top and bottom halves of the device.
Apple is reportedly delaying a device that was expected to roll out in 2025
The foldable MacBook is expected to have a touch screen on both the top and bottom half of the screen. Pictured: Rendering of what the foldable MacBook might look like
Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst known for leaking information about Apple products, said in an X post that ‘some market participants previously expected Apple to launch the foldable iPad in 2025, but the current supply chain survey indicates that the foldable iPad has no visibility.
‘This may also be because some call this foldable MacBook a foldable iPad.’
Kuo reported that Apple canceled the 20.25-inch display design it had reportedly been considering, saying ‘the assembly mass production schedule has been pushed back from 1H26 [the first half of 2026] to the end of 2027 or 2028.’
Some users have raised concerns over having an on-screen keyboard, saying that it can become painful and difficult to type without being able to feel the keys, but Apple may be working on ways to make this easier.
An Apple patent described three ways to make typing on an on-screen keyboard easier, writing that it should allow ‘a flexible screen to deform when a virtual key is pressed’ and use haptic feedback ‘to simulate the click of a real key.’
The company added that ‘an electrostatic charge could also be used to simulate the feeling of the edge of a key, making it feel like a real keyboard when you place your fingers on it ready to type.’
Although the foldable MacBook won’t have a physical keyboard, it can be paired with one and set up as a monitor. Pictured: Rendering of what the foldable MacBook might look like
The foldable MacBook could now roll out in early 2027 or as late as 2028. Pictured: Rendering of what the foldable MacBook might look like
Apple has reportedly been working on a foldable laptop for years but hasn’t moved forward with an official production date, even as competitors like LG and Samsung rolled out their own versions.
The same technical issues that are delaying the MacBook could also be behind the postponed rollout of the foldable iPhone.
Apple insiders reported that the device was on track to launch in less than two years, but are now put on hold due to ‘screen creasing.’
The company is reportedly ‘still evaluating component specifications and performance, with strict requirements for crease and reliability,’ according to 9to5Mac that said the device is unlikely to roll out before 2027.