Apple's foldable iPad is facing further delays and may not be released.

The rumored 18-inch tablet is reportedly too heavy, too expensive, and too late to the party.

Referential image of the 2024 M4 iPad Pro. | Image credit — PhoneArena

Apple's ambitious project to revolutionize the iPad series with a large foldable display is facing considerable difficulties. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company's work on an 18-inch foldable tablet, initially planned for release in 2028, may be delayed to 2029 or canceled altogether.

The primary challenges involve engineering issues related to the 18-inch OLED screen. Apple is collaborating with Samsung to minimize the crease. The weight of the prototypes, reportedly around 3.5 pounds, is also a concern. The current large iPad Pro weighs 1.3 pounds, putting the prototype closer to the MacBook Pro range.

The aim of this foldable device is more than just creating a larger iPad. It represents Apple's attempt to enter the foldable market, where competitors such as Samsung, Google, and Huawei are already present. The iPad lineup's sales have declined from their 2021 peak, and the foldable was intended to be an innovative product.

However, competitors are already active in this market. Huawei released its 18-inch MateBook Fold in May. Although currently exclusive to China and priced at $3,400, it weighs about one pound less than Apple's prototypes. The prototype's weight and potential cost may pose challenges.

The concept of a 3.5-pound tablet costing $3,000 raises questions about its target audience. When folded, it resembles a laptop without an external display, and when unfolded, it is the size of a 13-inch laptop. Its utility as an iPad may be uncertain.

While Apple seeks to remain competitive, this product may be addressing a non-existent need. Concerns about its potential cancellation have been raised, especially considering Apple's decisions to discontinue the Apple Car and the cheaper Vision Pro. This foldable iPad could be the next project to be discontinued.