The global foldable smartphone market is facing a slowdown, with growth projected at just 5% in 2024 and a 4% decline expected in 2025, according to a report by Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC).
Foldable smartphone display procurement dropped 38% year-on-year (YoY) between July and September 2024 and is projected to decline in at least four of the next five quarters.
Despite the slump, the research firm believes that Apple’s entry into the category could revive buyers’ interest. “Apple is expected to enter the foldable market in 2H’26 and given their dominant position in flagship smartphones (that) could generate significant growth for the foldable smartphone market. Any improvement in form factor, functionality, use cases, durability, etc. could drive new demand for this market,” the report said.
Earlier this year, The Information reported that Apple is “actively working on prototypes” for at least two clamshell iPhones, expected to go into production around or after 2025. Ross Young, a display supply chain analyst, also said the foldable device could be a 2026/2027 release. In a recent post on X, Young also suggested that Apple is most likely to adopt a book-style folding device, competing with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and the Google Pixel Fold.
Additionally, a previous 9to5Mac report revealed that Apple is considering two potential screen sizes for its foldable iPhone — 7.9 inches and 8.3 inches. If launched in 2026, DSCC predicts that the foldable market could see a record 30% growth, with 20% growth projected in both 2027 and 2028.
Why is the market down?
Samsung, the top player in foldables, is feeling the pinch. Its Galaxy Z Flip6 isn’t selling as well as hoped, with panel shipments expected to drop by over 10% compared to the Galaxy Z Flip5. While the Galaxy Z Fold6 is set to slightly outperform its predecessor, Samsung’s overall panel orders are expected to plunge over 20% next year.
Huawei isn’t immune either. Late launches for the Mate X6 and Pocket 3 hurt its numbers, and panel procurement for its Mate XT is also falling short. Still, Huawei’s market share is expected to grow from 18% to 33% in 2024, thanks to strong growth in panel orders, even as it scales back its plans for new models due to restrictions on advanced processors.
The foldable market is dominated by Samsung and Huawei, with no new players stepping up. Together, they hold 70% of the market, and other brands like Motorola and Honor trail far behind. High costs, low demand, and tech issues like overheating are pushing some companies to scale back or abandon their foldable plans entirely.
With its loyal fanbase and knack for setting trends, Apple could revitalise the market. Plus, we might see more creative designs like tri-fold devices and slidable laptops hitting the market by 2025 and beyond.
(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
