Apple is reportedly testing a giant foldable iPad with a display measuring up to 20 inches, potentially introducing an entirely new category of device that combines the functionality of a tablet and laptop.

According to Chinese tipster @Kang, Apple is experimenting with a large folding tablet that could take design inspiration from Huawei’s MateBook Fold, which is already available in China.

The device is tipped to feature an 18- to 20-inch display when fully unfolded, providing a considerably larger workspace than Apple’s current iPad Pro models.

When folded, it would transform into a more compact, portable device, potentially offering users the convenience of a tablet with the screen real estate of a large notebook.

The latest leak supports earlier predictions from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who previously suggested the company was working towards a 2028 launch for its first large-screen foldable iPad.

Apple is reportedly placing particular emphasis on minimising the crease in the flexible display, an issue that continues to challenge manufacturers of foldable smartphones, tablets and laptops.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has previously described Apple’s concept as resembling two iPad Pro tablets positioned side by side, creating an expansive display suitable for multitasking and productivity applications.

The device is expected to use ultra-thin glass (UTG) technology, which provides flexibility while helping protect the folding screen.

Kuo has suggested Corning, the company behind Gorilla Glass, could become the exclusive supplier of the glass materials.

General Interface Solutions (GIS) would reportedly handle specialised manufacturing processes, including cutting, edge finishing, quality inspections and packaging.

Both suppliers have also been linked to Apple’s wider foldable device plans, including its foldable iPhone.

Huawei’s MateBook Fold offers an indication of what Apple could be aiming to achieve.

The latest version, released in August 2026, features an 18-inch dual-layer OLED display and measures just 7.3mm thick on one side when fully opened.

Powered by Huawei’s Kirin X90 Plus processor, the device includes a built-in stand and stylus support, allowing it to function as a large tablet-style display or a more traditional notebook.

It is available in Sky White, Phantom Black and Streamer Gold, with prices starting at 24,999 yuan (A$5,325) in China where it was officially released.

Apple’s proposed foldable iPad is also expected to command a premium price, reflecting the manufacturing challenges associated with producing a large flexible display.

Previous industry forecasts have suggested first-year shipments could range between 500,000 and one million units, indicating Apple may initially target professional users and early adopters rather than the broader tablet market.

However, the project remains unconfirmed, and there is no guarantee Apple will bring the device to market on the reported schedule.

If the 2028 timeframe holds, the foldable iPad could mark one of Apple’s most ambitious hardware developments in years, potentially blurring the distinction between its iPad and MacBook product lines.