​Foldable smartphones represent a significant evolution in mobile technology, featuring flexible displays that allow devices to fold, offering users the convenience of a compact form factor combined with a larger screen when unfolded. Find out the latest news and predictions for foldable phones in 2025.

This innovative design aims to enhance user experience by providing versatility in device usage.​

Foldable phones Market Performance in 2024

In 2024, the global foldable smartphone market experienced a modest growth of 2.9% year-over-year. This subdued expansion was influenced by several factors:​

• Samsung’s Challenges: Samsung faced a difficult fourth quarter due to political instability, which negatively impacted its sales and contributed to the overall market slowdown.​
• OPPO’s Production Cuts: OPPO reduced the production of its more affordable clamshell foldable models, further affecting market dynamics.​

Despite these setbacks, other manufacturers demonstrated resilience:​

• Huawei: Achieved notable growth, emerging as a bright spot in the market.​
• Motorola, HONOR, and Xiaomi: These companies recorded double- and triple-digit growth during the same period, indicating a growing consumer interest in foldable technology beyond the leading brands.

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Anticipated Decline for foldable phones in 2025

Looking ahead, the foldable smartphone market is projected to experience its first decline in 2025, with forecasts indicating single-digit negative growth. This anticipated downturn is attributed to the market’s current consolidation phase as manufacturers recalibrate strategies and product offerings in response to evolving consumer preferences and competitive pressures.

​“I don’t see many positives this year and we are actually expecting negative growth for the segment, which will be a first,” observed Senior Analyst Jene Park. “But it is definitely not a sign of the market peaking; rather it is a sign of regrouping before 2026, which is expected to be exciting and rejuvenating for the segment with the entry of Apple and a slew of clamshells.”

Optimistic Outlook for 2026

Despite the short-term contraction, the market is poised for a robust comeback in 2026. This resurgence is expected to be driven by several key factors:​

• Entry of Apple: Apple’s anticipated debut into the foldable smartphone segment is projected to invigorate the market, leveraging its strong brand presence and innovation capabilities to attract a broad consumer base.​
• Clamshell Resurgence: A renewed focus on clamshell designs, known for their compactness and user-friendly form, is expected to appeal to consumers seeking practicality without compromising on screen size.​
• Supply Chain Preparations: Indications from the supply chain reveal that order books for foldable components are filling up, suggesting that manufacturers are gearing up for increased production to meet the anticipated demand surge in 2026.

​Counterpoint Research’s latest Foldable and Rollable Display Shipment and Technology Report supports this growth view for 2026 with the forecast of a mid-double-digit YoY growth in panel procurement.

“The supply chain is telling us foldable order books are filling up further out,” said Research Director Calvin Lee. “At the moment, this doesn’t look like a market that is plateauing – it looks like a market that is about to transform. And that requires a lot of planning, hence the slight pullback this year.”

In conclusion, while the foldable smartphone market faces a temporary slowdown in 2025, the subsequent year promises significant growth and innovation, marking an exciting phase for both manufacturers and consumers in the mobile technology landscape.

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