Amazon Joins Foldable Race, Eyeing 2026–2027 Launch for Large Hybrid Device

Amazon may soon be stepping into the foldable device market, according to a new report from trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. In a post on X, Kuo revealed that Amazon is internally developing a large-format foldable device, though the project has not yet officially launched. If progress continues as expected, mass production could begin as early as late 2026 or 2027.

This marks a significant strategic shift for Amazon, whose hardware lineup currently focuses on e-readers, tablets, Fire TVs, and Alexa-powered devices.

A Direct Challenge to Apple’s Foldable Plans

Kuo's report also highlighted Apple's progress in the foldable space. Apple is believed to be working on an 18.8-inch foldable device, which may blur the lines between a foldable iPad and MacBook. Mass production for this device is reportedly set for late 2027 or 2028, giving Amazon a potential head start—if it greenlights the project soon.

Apple is also rumored to be developing a foldable iPhone, with some analysts suggesting two foldable products could launch as early as 2026. However, timelines remain uncertain and vary across reports.

Supplier Discussions Already Underway

Ross Young, founder of Display Supply Chain Consultants, responded to Kuo’s post saying he has “known about Amazon’s foldable project for some time.” Young added that Amazon has already spoken with key suppliers, reinforcing the idea that development is gaining traction even if a formal product announcement hasn't happened yet.

Kuo also acknowledged Young’s input, saying Amazon has been researching foldables for a while but hasn't moved into full-scale development.

Foldables: The Next Big Battleground?

If both Apple and Amazon proceed, we could see the foldable device market expand beyond traditional players like Samsung and Huawei. While Amazon hasn’t been a major force in premium tablets or laptops, its move into foldables may indicate ambitions to create a hybrid device that combines content consumption, productivity, and perhaps Kindle-level reading into one.

For Apple, a foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid could redefine its current product categories and offer a new kind of flexibility and portability—something fans have been eagerly waiting for.

Final Thoughts

With mass production potentially just a couple of years away, Amazon’s entry could heat up competition in the large-format foldable market. As both tech giants explore this next frontier in device design, the real winner could be the consumer—especially if these innovations deliver on portability, durability, and versatility.

The foldable era may be closer than we think, and it’s no longer just a Samsung or Huawei story. Apple and Amazon could soon be at the center of it.