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The Rise of Foldable Phones in the Smartphone Market

As the smartphone landscape evolves, one of the most intriguing advancements is the growth of the foldable phone segment. According to recent insights from TrendForce, shipments of foldable phones are projected to reach approximately 19.8 million units by 2025, resulting in a market penetration rate of around 1.6%, comparable to the previous year. While the growth appears to have slowed slightly compared to earlier expectations, several key factors suggest that foldable devices are set to emerge as dominant players in the mid-to-high-end smartphone arena.

Key Players and Market Dynamics

Currently, Samsung remains at the forefront of this innovative sector. The company has recently unveiled its flagship model, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which boasts significant advancements in hinge technology, minimizing crease visibility, and enhancing overall design. Despite its leading position, Samsung is facing increasing competition. Its share of the global foldable phone market is expected to decline from 45.2% in 2024 to 35.4% in the upcoming year, indicating a shift towards a more competitive landscape.

Huawei continues to show impressive growth, projecting to capture the second-largest global market share at 34.3% in 2025, primarily benefiting from strong sales in China. Additionally, emerging companies like Honor and Lenovo (Motorola) are rapidly making strides, with forecasts indicating their market shares will rise from 6% and 5.5% to 9.1% and 7.6%, respectively. Xiaomi is also increasing its presence in the compact foldable segment with its MIX Flip series, anticipating a rise in its share from 3% to 5.1%. This diverse competitive ecosystem is shaping up as various brands combine to achieve an expected market share of 8.5%.

Challenges and Consumer Sentiments

Despite the rapid developments and technological improvements, the foldable phone market is still facing several challenges. Concerns over crease visibility, durability, and high price points act as significant barriers to consumer adoption. For casual consumers who do not have brand loyalty, the incentive to transition to foldable devices remains low. Consequently, many users favor traditional, cost-effective bar-type models over more experimental foldable options.

However, this landscape may experience a transformation in 2026, with the anticipated entry of Apple into the foldable phone market. Rumors suggest that Apple plans to release its first foldable device in the second half of next year, featuring a 5.5-inch external display and a spacious 7.8-inch internal display. If these reports hold true, Apple's entrance could significantly elevate interest in foldable devices, particularly among premium users.

The Promise of Apple's Entry

The anticipated Apple foldable phone is predicted to benefit from the brand's hallmark emphasis on ecosystem integration and stability, paired with an optimized iOS experience designed specifically for foldable functionalities. This launch could mark a pivotal moment, propelling foldable phones from niche products to mainstream adoption, thereby invigorating the entire smartphone market.

In conclusion, the foldable phone sector is progressing from mere technological showcases to structured products ranging from budget options to high-end variants. As production costs decrease and materials improve, these devices are poised to become more accessible to a broader audience. TrendForce suggests that Apple's influential entry into the foldable market could catalyze a shift, propelling foldable phones into the spotlight and reinvigorating consumer interest in smartphone innovations.