Inside Apple’s Product Pipeline Beyond the Foldable iPhone Ultra
In Focus
- Apple plans to launch iPhone Ultra later during the 2026 WWDC
- Upcoming products include a touchscreen MacBook, AR glasses, and security devices
- A foldable iPad is reportedly a priority for John Ternus
Apple’s incoming CEO, John Ternus will reportedly prioritize a series of new products. A report by Bloomberg showed that in addition to Apple’s foldable iPhone, Ternus has his eyes set on a foldable iPad when he takes over on September 1, 2026.
Under Tim Cook, Apple has made significant progress with the design and development of iPhone Ultra. The tech giant is reportedly using dual-layer glass on the foldable smartphone to reduce the crease effect.
Which Products are in Apple’s Pipeline?
Tim Cook’s successor has a strong product pipeline to handle. Several devices are either under development or awaiting launch. Two weeks after taking over, Ternus will oversee the launch of iPhone Ultra, which will be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.
Additionally, Ternus will be overseeing the design, development, and launch of Apple’s AI smart home devices, including a Tabletop Robot and security devices. Apple also plans to introduce the Smart Home Hub, which is a HomePod with a screen, to compete with Google’s Nest devices.
Under Ternus, the iPhone maker is expected to unveil AI-powered wearables that feature built-in cameras, like the AI pendant. The first touchscreen MacBook and augmented reality glasses also feature on John Ternus’ priority list.
The MacBook will likely launch at the beginning of 2027, with augmented reality and the foldable iPad expected to arrive later between 2028 and 2030. The augmented reality glasses will likely be different from the Siri-powered AI smart glasses the company plans to launch at the end of this year or early 2027.
A Foldable iPad Among Ternus’ Priorities
Reports of the potentially foldable iPad have been circulating for several years now. In its recent report, Bloomberg noted that the device has been a priority for Ternus. Apple’s incoming CEO has been running the company’s engineering department.
The idea of Apple’s 20-inch foldable iPad could see the tech giant develop a device that redefines how users interact with portable computing. The foldable design would make the iPad more versatile, offering users a larger canvas that supports creative workflows, multitasking, and better productivity, while maintaining portability.
It’s still unclear whether a foldable iPad and the other products that are reportedly under development will become a reality. But if Apple makes the foldable iPad a reality, it will cost more and will initially be an experimental device.
Will John Ternus Host the 2026 WWDC?
Apple wants Ternus to host the upcoming 2026 WWDC event, where the flagship products will be launched. As the head of Apple’s engineering department, Ternus likely oversaw the development of the foldable iPhone, which makes him the best person to introduce it.
His hardware engineering knowledge and experience also enables him to explain the product. Tim Cook, who stood out for his supply chain expertise, will step down from the CEO position on September 1, 2026 after serving for 15 years.
