折叠屏在东北变“碎碎冰”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and growth prospects of the foldable smartphone market, particularly focusing on durability issues in low temperatures and the expected increase in shipments due to Apple's entry into the market in 2026 [3][13]. Durability Issues in Low Temperatures - Foldable smartphones face durability problems in extremely low temperatures, as highlighted by a viral incident where a user's device was damaged in Harbin due to temperature fluctuations [5][11]. - The core reason for screen breakage in cold weather is attributed to the material properties of flexible OLED screens, which become brittle at low temperatures, leading to issues like delamination and liquid leakage [12]. - Recommendations for using foldable phones in cold environments include minimizing opening and closing the device outdoors and allowing it to warm up before use [12] [13]. Market Growth Predictions - Despite durability concerns, the global shipment of foldable smartphones is expected to reach 24 to 25 million units in 2026, a growth of approximately 41% to 47% from 17 million units in 2025 [14]. - The Chinese market is projected to see shipments of 12 to 13 million units in 2026, reflecting a growth of 20% to 30% from 10 million units in 2025 [14]. - The foldable smartphone market is anticipated to remain small, accounting for about 2% of the total global smartphone sales of approximately 1.15 billion units in 2026 [15]. Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape - China has become the largest market for foldable smartphones, with local manufacturers focusing on innovation in hinge design, screen technology, and overall device performance [17]. - Major brands like Huawei, Apple, and Samsung are expected to dominate the market, with Huawei holding a significant share of around 50% in China [18]. - The competitive landscape is characterized by a clear division among leading brands, with Huawei showing a 14% increase in sales, while other brands like Honor and Vivo are facing challenges [18]. Future Observations - The introduction of Apple's foldable smartphone is anticipated to significantly influence market dynamics, with expectations for innovations in hardware and software that could enhance user experience [20]. - The ongoing "trade-in" subsidy policy in China may provide additional support for the foldable smartphone market, although rising costs present challenges for manufacturers [20].