When Steve Jobs unveiled the iPad, he described it as “a new category of device.” One that would excel in specific areas better than laptops or smartphones. However, with the emergence of foldable iPhones capable of replacing both smartphones and iPads, does that unique category begin to fade away?
Rationale for the iPad’s Existence
Lately, I’ve been thinking about Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
The idea of the ‘iPhone Fold’ possessing the versatility similar to an iPad mini excites me.
For many years, I cherished my iPad mini. However, a decade ago, when I transitioned to using the iPad Pro as my primary computer, I found the notion of juggling two iPads less appealing, leading to the iPad mini’s exit from my daily routine.
With my 13-inch M4 iPad Pro now serving as a laptop thanks to the Magic Keyboard, I haven’t been utilizing the ‘tablet’ aspect as much.
I truly miss some of the benefits offered by my compact iPad mini.
This resonates with the essence of Steve Jobs’ original pitch for the iPad.
In 2010, following the iPhone’s monumental success, Jobs argued that there was a gap for a “third category of device” nestled between smartphones and laptops.
This is where the iPad came in.
Jobs showcased how the iPad excelled over both the iPhone and Mac for specific tasks, like casual web browsing, watching videos, and managing email.
He made a convincing case for the iPad’s purpose, which was fundamentally rooted in this argument.
“If there’s going to be a third category of device, it’s going to have to be better at these kinds of tasks than a laptop or smartphone; otherwise, it has no reason for being.”
Throughout the years, many have debated the iPad’s “reason for being.”
Users variously employ it as their primary computer or use it casually for entertainment and light tasks.
As iPhones grew larger and Macs became sleeker, the iPad faced increasing challenges to distinguish itself.
With foldable iPhones on the horizon, it’s likely to become an even steeper hill to climb.
iPhone Fold May Signal the Beginning of the End for iPad
The iPad isn’t going anywhere soon.
For one, the upcoming iPhone Fold will likely appeal to a niche market. Its premium price tag—rumored to be around $2,000—will provide ample room for the more affordable $349 iPad to continue thriving in sales.
However, what about five years down the road?
If foldable devices gain traction, Apple will probably expand its range considerably, likely at much more attractive price points.
The anticipated iPhone Fold is set to feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner display.
When folded, it will be relatively compact compared to current iPhones but resemble an iPad mini when unfolded.
Historically, users have demonstrated a preference for larger iPhones.
It’s not far-fetched to imagine multiple foldable iPhones of various sizes emerging in the coming years, potentially taking over parts of Apple’s current iPhone lineup and possibly even its iPads.
Over time, the iPad might persist as a specialized, budget-friendly option or perhaps evolve into its own high-end, large foldable model.
However, for the majority of users, I predict the need for an iPad will wane as foldable iPhones take center stage.
In Steve Jobs’ era, that third device truly had its place. Yet, with foldable smartphones emerging, the dynamics could shift significantly.
I appreciate the iPad, but we may be on the brink of witnessing its logical decline.
Do you believe foldable iPhones will eventually lead to the fading of the iPad? Share your thoughts in the comments.
