Foldable Smartphones Set for Strong Resurgence by 2026 Globally
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Synopsis
The global market for foldable smartphones is poised for a significant revival in 2026, despite a modest growth of 2.9% in 2024. The entry of Apple and new clamshell designs are set to invigorate the market, overcoming current challenges and paving the way for a transformative phase.
Key Takeaways
- Global foldable smartphone shipments grew by 2.9% in 2024.
- 2026 is expected to be a transformative year with Apple's entry.
- Samsung faced challenges in Q4 due to political instability.
- OPPO reduced production of budget-friendly models.
- Single-digit negative growth is forecasted for 2025.
New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) Global shipments of foldable smartphones in 2024 experienced modest growth of 2.9 percent year-over-year, yet this does not indicate a saturation in the market, as per a recent study.
In fact, it suggests a period of strategic recalibration prior to 2026, which is anticipated to be a dynamic year for the segment with the anticipated entry of Apple and a range of clamshell models, according to Counterpoint Research’s latest report titled ‘Global Foldable Smartphone Market Forecast’.
While numerous original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) witnessed impressive double and triple-digit growth, the overall market growth was hindered by Samsung experiencing a challenging Q4 due to political unrest and OPPO reducing production of its budget-friendly clamshell foldables.
This year is expected to be even more challenging, with Counterpoint projecting single-digit negative growth for the market in 2025.
“I don’t see many positives this year, and we are indeed anticipating negative growth for the segment, which would be a first,” noted senior analyst Jene Park.
Nonetheless, the report supports a positive outlook for 2026, predicting a mid-double-digit year-over-year growth in panel procurement.
“The supply chain indicates that foldable order books are continuing to fill up,” remarked Research Director Calvin Lee.
“Currently, this doesn’t appear to be a market that is leveling off – it seems to be on the verge of a transformation. This necessitates significant planning, hence the minor pullback this year,” Lee added.
Order books are indicating a significant turnaround in 2026 due to Apple's entry and the resurgence of clamshell models.
Global shipments of foldable smartphones fell by 1 percent in the third quarter this year—marking its first-ever decline in Q3—as Samsung regained the top position with a 56 percent market share.
The global foldable market seems to have entered a transitional phase as it navigates challenges while evolving from a niche category to mainstream.
“User satisfaction is notably high with book-type foldable devices, but the excessively high prices pose the greatest barrier to widespread adoption,” stated senior analyst Jene Park.
