Apple's Foldable iPad and AR Glasses: A Glimpse into Future Categories

Recent reports from [[Mark Gurman|Mark Gurman]] via [[9to5Mac|9to5Mac]] indicate that [[Apple Inc.|Apple]] is continuing development on two highly anticipated, yet perpetually delayed, product categories: [[Augmented Reality (AR)|AR]] glasses and a foldable [[iPad|iPad]] (dubbed the 'iPad Fold'). While a potential [[2028]] launch for AR glasses remains on the table, their development seems to be benefiting from breakthroughs in [[Artificial Intelligence (AI)|AI]] smart glasses, which are slated for an earlier unveiling. The foldable [[iPad|iPad]] faces a more uncertain future, with some sources doubting its eventual release, despite being reportedly prioritized by [[John Ternus|John Ternus]], Apple's current head of hardware engineering.

• Apple's AR glasses are reportedly still targeting a 2028 launch, potentially benefiting from AI advancements.
• A foldable iPad, internally prioritized, faces significant doubts about ever reaching the market.
• AI smart glasses are expected to launch before Apple's more advanced AR glasses.
• The timelines for these ambitious products remain highly fluid and speculative.
• John Ternus's reported prioritization of the foldable iPad indicates a strategic push for innovation in new form factors.

Mark Gurman's reporting indicates that [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]'s AR glasses are still targeted for a [[2028]] release, though this timeline is subject to change. The development of AI-powered smart glasses, expected sooner, may be influencing the AR glasses' trajectory. The foldable [[iPad|iPad]] has seen its launch window pushed back to [[2028]] or later, with internal doubts about its eventual release, despite its reported prioritization.

The continued focus on [[Augmented Reality (AR)|AR]] glasses, with a potential [[2028]] launch, signals [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]'s long-term commitment to spatial computing. Breakthroughs in [[Artificial Intelligence (AI)|AI]] are likely accelerating this development, promising a truly immersive experience. The 'iPad Fold' being a priority for [[John Ternus|John Ternus]] suggests a determined push to innovate within the tablet market, potentially mirroring the success of a rumored foldable [[iPhone|iPhone]] Ultra.

The persistent delays and internal skepticism surrounding the foldable [[iPad|iPad]] raise serious questions about its viability, with some sources doubting it will ever ship. The AR glasses' [[2028]] target date, while still on the books, is a distant horizon for a product category that has yet to find mainstream traction. This suggests [[Apple Inc.|Apple]] may be struggling with the core technological and market challenges for both devices.

Originally reported by 9to5Mac