Introducing Rumor Replay, a fresh weekly series from DMN that delivers a brief overview of the latest Apple product rumors, along with my insights and commentary. Today, we’ll discuss the anticipated timeline for the foldable iPhone, the M5 iPad Pro release period, and some HomePod updates. Here’s what’s brewing in this week’s Apple rumors.
Foldable iPhone Remains Targeted for 2026
Reports from this summer indicated that Apple’s first foldable iPhone is slated for a 2026 launch. Unlike the traditional horizontal folding designs from competitors, this device will feature a unique top-down fold mechanism.
While no new updates surfaced this week, confirmation remains that the foldable iPhone is still on track for a 2026 release.
Given the extensive development period and multiple missed launch windows, it’s significant that the 2026 projection is still intact. As we approach 2025, it seems increasingly unlikely that delays or cancellations will affect Apple’s foldable iPhone initiative.
M5 iPad Pro Expected Fall 2025
This year, Apple stunned the audience by introducing the M4 chip with its latest iPad Pro. This update was significant, not only due to the M4’s performance but also because of the introduction of an OLED display, slick design, and numerous other upgrades.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the next iteration of the iPad Pro with the M5 chip is set to launch in fall 2025.
This timing aligns with Apple’s standard 18-month upgrade pattern for the iPad Pro range, and the addition of the M5 is anticipated. It’s reasonable to expect fewer major changes with the M5 variant, given that the recent M4 upgrade was substantial. Nonetheless, it’s encouraging to see Apple continue to enhance its premium iPad lineup.
HomePod Delayed, or Is a New HomePod Coming?
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a new ‘HomePod with display’ is facing delays, being pushed from the first half of 2025 to the second half.
This raises several questions:
- It’s uncertain if the device mentioned by Kuo is the same as the ‘HomePad’ smart display previously discussed by Mark Gurman.
- If it is indeed the HomePad, the timing of this delay is peculiar, coming soon after Gurman’s report suggesting a March launch.
- If it is a distinct product from the HomePad, could this delay influence the HomePad’s release timeline?
Ultimately, this situation presents more questions than answers. I look forward to seeing if Gurman’s Power On newsletter sheds more light on the matter this weekend.
What are your thoughts on the likelihood of the foldable iPhone debuting in 2026? What do you think about the HomePod rumors? Share your opinions in the comments below.
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