Apple’s 2026 Foldable Smartphone: A Potential Revitalization for the Declining Foldable Market

Declining Foldable Smartphone Shipments: A 2024 Overview

Despite the introduction of innovative devices such as the Huawei Mate XT, the world’s first tri-folding phone, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 Special Edition in South Korea, there has been a noteworthy dip in foldable smartphone shipments. In the third quarter of 2024, shipments saw a 1% decline year-over-year (YoY), marking the first downturn in this segment in six years.

Market Analysis by DSCC

Recent insights from Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) reveal a stabilization in the foldable smartphone display market, which has experienced its first quarterly drop. The report forecasts a similar trend for 2025, predicting a continued decrease in demand. Currently, the market for foldable displays has plateaued at 22 million panels, with smartphone display procurement plummeting by 38% YoY in Q3 2024. Anticipation surrounds the next five quarters as the market is expected to witness further declines.

Key Challenges Facing Major Players

Several factors contribute to this decline, with the lackluster performance of Samsung—historically a market leader—being a significant issue. Additionally, Huawei’s share has drastically reduced, from 30% in Q2 2024 to just 13% in Q3 2024. An underlying challenge is the absence of a strong competitor to Samsung and Huawei, hinting that potential entry by a third player, such as Apple, may disrupt the market dynamics.

Apple’s Potential Entry into the Foldable Market

The anticipation surrounding Apple’s rumored folding iPhone continues to grow. Patent documentation surfaced in May 2024, suggesting the tech giant’s active development in the foldable space. Recent reports indicate that Apple has tasked Samsung with supplying displays for these upcoming devices. Initially, there were concerns regarding a delay in Apple’s launch due to addressing display crease issues; however, it appears that the company is moving forward with plans for a clamshell folding iPhone, expected to debut in 2026.

Future Projections for Foldables

The DSCC report supports the assertion that Apple aims to penetrate the foldable smartphone market by the second half of 2026. With Apple’s established dominance in flagship smartphones, their entry is projected to significantly invigorate the foldable market. Enhancements in design, usability, and durability could catalyze new consumer demand.

Apple’s Technological Innovations and Expectations for 2026

As Apple prepares for its entry, the company is focused on introducing unique technological features in its folding iPhone. The supply chain analysis suggests that the market could experience unprecedented growth in 2026, with expectations of over 30% growth, followed by 20% increases projected for 2027 and 2028. Furthermore, speculation also arises around Apple exploring opportunities in the foldable laptop segment.

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