Apple's AR Glasses and Foldable iPad: Rumors Point to 2028, But
Recent reports from **Mark Gurman** via **9to5Mac** have reignited speculation around two highly anticipated, yet elusive, **Apple** products: AR glasses and a
Summary
Recent reports from **Mark Gurman** via **9to5Mac** have reignited speculation around two highly anticipated, yet elusive, **Apple** products: AR glasses and a foldable iPad. While the AR glasses are reportedly still targeting a **2028** launch, with an earlier 'smart glasses' unveiling possibly in **2026** or **2027**, the foldable iPad's future appears more precarious. Sources close to Gurman express skepticism about its eventual release, despite it being a stated priority for **John Ternus**, Apple's new CEO. The success of a rumored foldable [[iphone-16-pro|iPhone Ultra]] this fall could significantly influence the foldable iPad's development trajectory.
Key Takeaways
- Apple's AR glasses are reportedly still aiming for a 2028 launch, with an earlier smart glasses product expected sooner.
- The future of Apple's foldable iPad is highly uncertain, with internal skepticism reported.
- John Ternus, Apple's new CEO, has prioritized the foldable iPad.
- The success of a potential foldable iPhone Ultra could influence the foldable iPad's development.
- Mark Gurman's reporting from 9to5Mac is the primary source for these updates.
Balanced Perspective
Mark Gurman's latest report, as published by **9to5Mac**, indicates that Apple's AR glasses might still be on track for a **2028** release, with an earlier smart glasses product anticipated between late **2026** and **2027**. However, the foldable iPad's prospects are presented with significant doubt, with multiple sources questioning its viability. The article highlights that the foldable iPad is a priority for **John Ternus**, but this ambition is juxtaposed against internal skepticism and a potential dependency on the market reception of a foldable [[iphone-16-pro|iPhone Ultra]].
Optimistic View
The persistent targeting of a **2028** launch for Apple's AR glasses, despite previous delays, signals a commitment to pushing the boundaries of spatial computing. If the rumored 'smart glasses' arrive sooner, they could serve as a crucial stepping stone, allowing Apple to refine its AR technology and user experience before a full-fledged AR headset. A successful [[iphone-16-pro|iPhone Ultra]] could indeed catalyze the foldable iPad's development, bringing a much-desired form factor to the [[ipad-lineup|iPad]] lineup.
Critical View
The repeated delays and internal doubts surrounding Apple's foldable iPad paint a grim picture, suggesting it may never see the light of day. The AR glasses' **2028** target, while seemingly concrete, has been a moving goalpost before, and the 'smart glasses' might be a watered-down compromise rather than a true AR leap. The reliance on a hypothetical foldable [[iphone-16-pro|iPhone Ultra]]'s success for the iPad's future development is a precarious strategy, indicating a lack of conviction within Apple for this particular product category.
Source
Originally reported by 9to5Mac