Overview
- Analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo now expects an H2 2026 unveiling, warning that “smooth shipments” are unlikely before 2027 and that shortages could persist through the end of 2026.
- Recent reports and leaked CAD renders point to a tablet‑like foldable with a roughly 5.3–5.5 inch outer screen and a 7.7–7.8 inch inner display, aiming to better fit iPad‑style apps.
- The CAD leak cited dimensions near 83.8 x 120.6mm when folded, about 4.8mm thickness when open (excluding the camera bump), a 1.8mm hinge protrusion, and a 7.76‑inch internal panel.
- Rumored hardware targets include a crease‑less display, Touch ID, an A20 Pro‑class SoC, dual rear cameras, an under‑display selfie camera, eSIM‑only configuration, and pricing around $2,000–$2,500.
- Coverage ties Apple’s timeline to broader AI plans, with reports of short‑term reliance on Google’s Gemini and longer‑term infrastructure work like the Broadcom “Baltra” AI server chip slated for 2027, as Apple seeks larger displays for multimodal AI use.