Apple’s Giant 18.8-Inch iPad Pro Prototype Houses In-Display Face ID

A new leak claims that Apple’s forthcoming foldable iPad Pro will have Face ID embedded under the display, unlike the current iPhone models. Prior reports and rumors have speculated that the company is working on a new giant iPad Pro with an 18.8-inch foldable display, but it remains to be seen whether it will be a tablet or a Mac.

Apple’s giant foldable iPad Pro-like device will house Face ID under the display for a seamless user experience

According to Digital Chat Station on Weibo, one of Apple’s engineering prototypes of the 18-inch foldable screen features a “metal superstructure lens” that integrates the receiver and transmitter components for in-display Face ID. The leaker shared no further details on the hardware, but from what we can tell, Apple’s foldable iPad Pro could house Face ID sensors under the display.

Apple has reportedly been working on its foldable iPad-like device for a while, and to be fair, we’re not sure what it will be. This means the device could be a foldable iPad or a MacBook, depending on the operating system it runs. Apple could also offer a hybrid device that combines the best of both iPadOS and macOS.

This is the first time we’re hearing details about under-display Face ID sensors for a giant foldable device from Apple. The technology was also rumored to arrive in future iPhone iterations, but no concrete reports have confirmed its implementation on a foldable device so far.

As for the launch, Ross Young from Display Supply Chain Consultants suggests that Apple plans to launch an 18.8-inch foldable iPad Pro with an OLED display in 2027. Prominent industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo states that Apple has tapped LG to mass-produce 18.8-inch and 20.2-inch foldable displays by the end of this year.

Mark Gurman has also shared details about Apple’s foldable tablet-like device, stating that it will potentially launch in 2028. Given these estimates and Apple’s developmental challenges, the launch date could slip further. It was also previously reported that the company is working on a foldable iPhone, which could debut in 2026. However, due to limited space inside the device, it is rumored to feature Touch ID in the Power Button, similar to the iPad mini.