Rumors of a foldable MacBook have been swirling for a while, and according to a new report, Apple might be closer than ever to bringing this futuristic device to market.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for his accurate predictions about Apple’s upcoming products, has shed some light on the foldable MacBook. Kuo believes Apple could be shipping over 1 million units of this innovative device by 2026. This is an optimistic update compared to his previous predictions of a 2027 launch.

The foldable MacBook is expected to boast a large, foldable display – either 20.25 inches or 18.8 inches according to Kuo. When folded, these displays would transform the device into a form factor similar to a traditional 14-inch or 13-inch MacBook, offering incredible versatility.

Kuo also reports that Apple is collaborating with LG Display to develop a “crease-free as possible” folding screen. This crease is a common drawback in current foldable devices, and eliminating it would significantly enhance the user experience.

Adding to the excitement, the foldable MacBook is rumored to be powered by Apple’s next-generation M5 chip, hinting at powerhouse performance. Production is reportedly slated to begin as early as the fourth quarter of 2025, putting a 2026 release well within reach.

The concept of a foldable MacBook wasn’t born yesterday. Back in 2022, analyst Ross Young first sparked rumors of a 20-inch foldable device, later corroborated by Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman. Gurman even hinted at a potential iPad/MacBook hybrid with a dual-screen design, eliminating the need for a physical keyboard and trackpad – a truly revolutionary concept.

Further fueling the foldable frenzy, a Korean publication, The Elec, in 2022, proposed a timeline for Apple’s foldable ambitions. They predicted Apple would prioritize integrating OLED displays into existing devices like iPads or MacBooks before venturing into foldables. With the recent release of the OLED iPad Pro, it seems the stars might be aligning for a foldable future.

The foldable MacBook isn’t the only foldable Apple might have up its sleeve. Rumors suggest Apple is actively developing foldable iPhones with a horizontal folding mechanism. Additionally, Gurman has hinted at a foldable iPad in the early stages of development, with Apple reportedly focusing on eliminating the crease, a challenge that continues to plague even industry giants like Samsung.

While Apple itself has remained tight-lipped about these foldable devices, the weight of these rumors and analyst predictions is undeniable. If they come to fruition, Apple could be on the verge of reshaping the laptop landscape yet again, offering users a level of portability and functionality never seen before. With a potential 2026 launch date on the horizon, the wait for this foldable future might not be that long after all.

This article was originally published on May 23, 2024, at 11:30 am ET.