Apple to Release Foldable MacBook in 2026 with New Details

TapTechNews May 23rd news, previously analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had said that Apple plans to launch a MacBook device with a 20.3-inch foldable screen in 2027. Today he shared some important new details about this futuristic MacBook again, one of which is that Apple will advance the release time to 2026.

Here are some new information given by Ming-Chi Kuo:

The size of the foldable screen may still have multiple options. The previously rumored 20.3-inch display may be replaced by an 18.8-inch panel. The former will be similar to the current 14-15 inch MacBook after folding, while the latter is closer to the modern 13-14 inch model.

The device is expected to be released in 2026, one year earlier than previously reported.

The device is expected to be equipped with the M5 series chip, which is in line with the expected timeline that the M4 will be popularized to the entire MacBook product line by the end of 2025.

Apple's goal is to minimize the screen crease as much as possible, which requires very high design requirements for both the panel and the hinge. Therefore, the cost of the panel and the hinge is very high. Currently, the initial estimated cost of the panel and the hinge is about $600-$650 and $200-$250 respectively. When it is mass-produced, if the yield is significantly improved, the cost is expected to be further reduced.

Ming-Chi Kuo also said that judging from the cost of the panel and the bearing, the price of the folding MacBook should not be cheap. If Apple cannot significantly improve the yield and reduce the cost before mass production, then the cost of the folding MacBook may be close to the current VisionPro. But because the product positioning of the folding MacBook is relatively more clear, the shipment should be significantly higher than that of VisionPro, and it is estimated that the shipment in 2026 can reach more than 1 million units.

TapTechNews noticed that Apple has never produced a full-screen foldable device, and there is still a long time until 2026. If this news is true, then we should hear more revelations about this device in the coming months and years.