According to a South Korean publication, The Elec, the latest reports from Apple’s suppliers, such as Samsung Display and LG Display, suggest that the Cupertino tech giant is considering introducing a foldable iPad Mini as its first foldable device. There are no other details about the model, but it is said that the tablet will have a screen size ranging from 7 to 8 inches (17.78 to 20.32 cm).
The publication also mentions that Samsung and LG have already sent initial panel samples to Apple last year. Additionally, both companies have been in talks with Apple regarding the components that will be used in the foldable iPad Mini. There have been mentions of the possibility of using ultra-thin glass (UTG) for the main foldable screen and the cover screen, similar to the solution used in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5.
Apple’s patents describing the foldable device refer to it as a “laptop-style computer.”
The same publication also speculated that the foldable iPad Mini could replace the current version of the iPad Mini. In other words, Apple could end the current series at the right time. However, there are opposing views on these speculations, considering previous rumors about Apple’s plans for an iPad Mini version with an OLED screen. Regardless of which of these rumors turns out to be true, it wouldn’t hurt for Apple to continue selling both standard and foldable versions of the iPad Mini simultaneously.
Release Date of the Foldable iPad Mini
It is believed that the iPad Mini Fold or foldable iPad Mini will be available in 2026, although this date may be pushed back to 2027. Furthermore, a foldable hybrid iPad/MacBook with a 20-inch screen is planned to be released first in 2022. Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to debut only in 2027, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the iPhone’s launch.
Although we still have to wait a few more years to see Apple’s first foldable product, the company is already working intensively on changes throughout its iPad portfolio. This year, the introduction of new iPad Pro models with OLED displays and a 12.9-inch iPad Air is expected in March. The iPhone manufacturer also plans to refresh the iPad and iPad Mini line, although no specific date has been set yet.
What do you think about the foldable iPad Mini? Do you believe its size is more practical than the extra-large iPad? We look forward to hearing your opinion.
Source: Patently Apple
F.A.Q. Section based on the main topics and information presented in the article:
1. What does the latest report from Apple’s suppliers suggest about the foldable iPad Mini?
According to reports from suppliers such as Samsung Display and LG Display, Apple is considering introducing a foldable iPad Mini as its first foldable device.
2. What are the indicated screen sizes for the foldable iPad Mini?
It is said that the foldable iPad Mini will have a screen size ranging from 7 to 8 inches (17.78 to 20.32 cm).
3. What panel samples were sent to Apple by Samsung and LG?
Samsung and LG have already sent initial panel samples to Apple last year.
4. What components could be used in the foldable iPad Mini?
It is possible that the foldable iPad Mini will have an ultra-thin glass (UTG) for the main foldable screen and the cover screen, similar to the solution used in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5.
5. How does Apple describe the foldable device in its patents?
According to descriptions in the patents, Apple describes the foldable device as a “laptop-style computer.”
6. What are the speculations about replacing the current version of the iPad Mini?
According to the publication, the foldable iPad Mini could replace the current version of the iPad Mini, but there are also opposing views on this speculation, considering previous rumors about Apple’s plans for an iPad Mini version with an OLED screen. In any case, it can be expected that Apple will continue to sell both standard and foldable versions of the iPad Mini.
7. When is the planned release date for the foldable iPad Mini?
It is believed that the foldable iPad Mini will be available in 2026 or mid-2027. There are also plans for the release of a 20-inch foldable hybrid iPad/MacBook in 2022 and a foldable iPhone in 2027, marking the 20th anniversary of the iPhone’s launch.
Suggested Related Links:
– Wikipedia – iPad Mini
The source of the article is from the blog yanoticias.es