Projected 20% Growth in Global Foldable Smartphone Market by 2026
Synopsis
The global foldable smartphone market is on track to expand by 20% in 2026, primarily due to Apple's anticipated entrance into the sector and the ongoing premiumization trend. This growth signals a significant shift in the smartphone industry, as competition intensifies among major players.
Key Takeaways
20% growth in foldable smartphone shipments expected by 2026.
Apple set to enter the foldable market, targeting a 46% share in North America.
Intensifying competition among major players like Samsung , Motorola , and Google .
Focus on book-type devices for better multitasking and productivity.
Foldables becoming crucial for OEMs' profit margins.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) The worldwide market for foldable smartphones is anticipated to witness a remarkable growth of 20 percent year-on-year by 2026. This surge is largely attributed to Apple's imminent entry into this innovative segment and the ongoing premiumization of the smartphone landscape, according to a report released on Tuesday.
The analysis from Counterpoint Research suggests that the launch of Apple's inaugural foldable iPhone is set to heighten competition significantly, with predictions indicating that Apple will secure a substantial 46 percent market share in North America by 2026.
North America is expected to experience the most immediate disruption, as Apple's entrance will put increased pressure on current foldable manufacturers such as Samsung, Motorola, and Google, as stated in the report.
Leading Android manufacturers are hastening updates to their foldable offerings, unveiling new book-style devices throughout the year in light of intensified competition.
Despite foldable devices accounting for a mere 1.6 percent of the overall smartphone market in 2025, this category is becoming progressively critical for OEMs as they seek models with appealing margins to counterbalance pricing pressures in the entry-level and mid-range segments.
The report emphasizes that manufacturers are focusing their foldable strategies on book-type designs, which provide larger displays suitable for multitasking, media consumption, and productivity-oriented applications.
"Apple is in a particularly advantageous position due to its extensive experience with iPadOS and optimization for large-screen software," the report noted.
Some Android users exploring book-style foldables may also consider Apple's upcoming device as a viable option, which could increase the likelihood of switching ecosystems, according to forecasts.
In Q3 2026, Samsung plans to introduce next-generation updates to its Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip devices. The company is expected to adjust its lineup by substituting the previous Flip FE with a wider aspect ratio Fold variant aimed at more directly competing with Apple's anticipated book-type foldable.
Motorola is set to launch its first book-type device, the Razr Fold, in Q2 2026, while Google is anticipated to refresh its next-gen Pixel Fold in Q4 2026, the report indicates.
aar/pk
Point of View
The anticipated entry of Apple into the foldable segment marks a pivotal moment. With a strong focus on premiumization and innovative design, the competitive dynamics are shifting, suggesting a vibrant future for foldable devices.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving the growth of the foldable smartphone market?
The growth is primarily driven by Apple's expected entry into the market and the ongoing trend of premiumization in the smartphone industry.
What market share is Apple expected to capture in North America by 2026?
Apple is projected to capture a 46 percent share of the foldable smartphone market in North America by 2026.
Which companies are currently competing in the foldable smartphone market?
Current competitors include Samsung, Motorola, and Google, all of whom are rapidly updating their foldable device portfolios.
What percentage of the overall smartphone market do foldables represent?
Foldable smartphones are expected to represent only 1.6 percent of the overall smartphone market in 2025.
When will Samsung and Motorola launch their new foldable devices?
Samsung plans to release its next-generation Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip in Q3 2026, while Motorola is set to launch its Razr Fold in Q2 2026.
