Apple might have a foldable device on the shelves next year – but it’s not what you think

APPLE could have a foldable device on the shelves next year – but it might not be what you think.

The tech giant is reportedly working on a new product following foldable mobile phones by rivals such as Samsung and Motorola.

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Yet it’s not a phone Apple are working on – but a tablet, according to Digitimes.

Production of a foldable iPad is earmarked to start by the end of next year, paving the way for a foldable iPhone to follow.

The new iPad would be Apple’s first foldable product, in contrast to other tech firms who already provide the format for phones, tablets and PCs.

Apple experts are said to be consulting on panel and hinge designs which would be most cost-effective and easiest to mass-produce.

They have reportedly been in contact with Samsung Display and LG Display about getting hold of foldable screens.

Apple remains the industry leader when it comes to tablets but its shipments dropped by 16.8 per cent over the past year – albeit still better than the overall market’s 29.9 per cent slump.

Plans for a foldable iPad are being seen as an attempt to help arrest that slide.

Analysts have suggested a foldable iPhone could be a prospect for 2025 or 2026.

Samsung recently revealed two new folding smartphones in a bid to persuade iPhone users to “join the flip side”.

The South Korean firm unveiled the fifth version of its Galaxy Z Flip and the Galaxy Z Fold devices.

Previous screens suffered with bendy bulge problems.

Earlier this year Google launched its first foldable smartphone, called Pixel Fold.

Meanwhile, Apple this week announced a new Pencil device.

There had been rumours they were planning three new iPads.

The most recent refresh of the iPad range was last year with an updated iPad Air and 10th generation iPad.

Apple last month revealed its new iPhone 15, though buyers have complained about a mysterious “crackle”, overheating and problems with some battery packs.

There is already speculation about potential features for the iPhone 17 despite it likely being another two years away.

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This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk