Apple(US:AAPL) Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-12-04 01:28Group 1 - The global foldable smartphone shipment is expected to grow by 14% year-on-year in Q3 2025, reaching a historical high for the category, with foldable devices now accounting for 2.5% of global smartphone shipments [1] - The market expansion is driven by the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Huawei Mate series, with book-style models leading the growth, while clamshell models also perform well due to Samsung's refreshed product line and the strong performance of the Motorola Razr60 series [1] - Samsung's Galaxy Z series, particularly the Z Fold7, has significantly enhanced its appeal in the high-end market due to its thinner body, lighter weight, more durable hinge, and less visible crease, contributing to unexpected growth [1] Group 2 - The foldable smartphone market is projected to close 2025 with a stable growth rate of around 16% year-on-year, driven by high-end users' preference for larger screens and improved durability [4] - The market is expected to enter a significant expansion phase in 2026, with key drivers including enhanced durability, thinner and lighter designs, optimized hinge and panel structures, and richer AI-driven software experiences [4] - Apple is anticipated to enter the foldable market in the second half of 2026, leveraging its large iPhone user base to drive a new round of high-end product upgrades [4] Group 3 - The competition landscape is expected to change significantly with Apple's entry into the foldable market, prompting existing manufacturers to accelerate their technological advancements and product differentiation strategies [4] - A notable trend is the gradual move away from traditional book-style designs in foldable smartphones, with Huawei's early multi-fold solutions demonstrating engineering feasibility and Samsung's new tri-fold product marking a shift from concept to practical testing [4][5] - Samsung's first tri-fold model will have limited shipments, focusing on validating durability, hinge structure, and software optimization before larger-scale commercialization [5]