Imagine unfolding your iPad to reveal a screen as expansive as two iPad Pros side by side. That vision could become reality as soon as 2028, according to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman sheds light on Apple’s ambitious project: an 18.8-inch foldable iPad with a nearly invisible crease. This device isn’t just another gadget; it’s potentially a game-changer in the realm of personal computing, blending the portability of a tablet with the expansive screen real estate of a laptop.

Apple’s venture into foldable technology has been a subject of speculation and rumor for years. The idea of a foldable iPad, in particular, has been tantalizing tech enthusiasts since at least 2022, when talks of a 20-inch folding “iPad/MacBook hybrid” first surfaced. However, the path to bringing such a device to market has been fraught with challenges—primarily, the quest for a display that can fold without compromising on quality or durability.

The prototypes described by Gurman feature a display where the crease is almost imperceptible, a significant leap if achieved, given that visible creases have been a common critique of early foldable devices. This innovation suggests Apple is not just entering the foldable market but aims to set new standards. The device is envisioned to marry the sleek, powerful design of the iPad with the functional benefits of MacBook, offering users the versatility to switch between tablet and laptop modes seamlessly.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this foldable iPad is its software implications. According to Gurman, by 2028, iPadOS could be sufficiently advanced to run macOS applications natively. This convergence of software ecosystems could dramatically expand what users can do with an iPad, potentially turning it into a more formidable productivity tool. Considering that Macs can currently run iPad apps, this two-way street could redefine user expectations from Apple’s devices.

The financial aspect of this foldable marvel is equally compelling. With the current 13-inch iPad Pro starting at $1,299, a device that doubles that screen size might command a premium. Yet, the ability to run macOS apps could justify this cost, offering consumers a device that could replace both a high-end tablet and a laptop, potentially reducing the need for multiple devices.

Apple’s exploration of foldable technology isn’t limited to iPads. Gurman notes that a foldable iPhone is also on the horizon, though not expected before 2026. This broader strategy hints at Apple’s intent to integrate foldable technology across its product line, possibly revolutionizing how we interact with our devices. Furthermore, recent leaks of an internal Apple display roadmap align with these developments, suggesting that OLED technology will also grace MacBook Pros by 2026 and MacBook Airs by 2027, potentially enhancing screen quality across the board.

Despite the excitement, the road to launching such a device is paved with technical challenges. The durability of foldable screens, the longevity of the hinge mechanism, and ensuring the device remains lightweight while packed with advanced tech are all hurdles Apple must overcome. Moreover, consumer acceptance of a high-cost, high-tech device in a market still warming up to the concept of foldables will be crucial.

As we look towards 2028, the prospect of an 18.8-inch foldable iPad from Apple represents not just an advancement in screen technology but a potential paradigm shift in how we perceive and utilize our digital devices. Whether it will meet the lofty expectations set by rumors and leaks remains to be seen, but if Apple can pull it off, this device might just redefine what we expect from a tablet—and perhaps even from personal computing as a whole.