Core Insights - The article discusses the anticipated growth of the foldable smartphone market, driven by Apple's expected entry in the second half of 2026, which is projected to increase the penetration rate from 1.6% in 2025 to over 3% by 2027 [2] Group 1: Foldable Smartphone Market Trends - TrendForce forecasts that the global foldable smartphone hinge market will reach a value of $1.2 billion by 2025, with hinges currently accounting for approximately 5% to 8% of the bill of materials (BOM) cost per device [3] - Samsung has adopted a droplet-type hinge design in its Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip series starting in 2023, which improves folding flatness and durability while reducing the visibility of creases, becoming a mainstream design in the industry [3] - The industry is accelerating the push towards modular designs and standardization to reduce costs and improve yield rates, which will enhance overall assembly efficiency and optimize the profit structure of the supply chain [3] Group 2: Apple's Potential Impact - Apple is considering the use of liquid metal as a structural material for its foldable devices, aiming to leverage its properties for lightweight and high toughness, which could lead to a comprehensive upgrade of the high-end structural component supply chain [4] - Historically, Apple has preferred to enter markets once they stabilize, employing an "early majority" strategy to capture market share quickly while minimizing risks and R&D costs [4] - The entry of Apple into the foldable smartphone market signifies a maturation of the technology, shifting the core competition towards manufacturing efficiency, cost control, and supply chain integration [4]

Core Insights - The core viewpoint of the article is that the foldable smartphone market is expected to see a shipment of 19.8 million units by 2025, maintaining a penetration rate of approximately 1.6% compared to 2024, indicating a slowdown in growth but still highlighting the technology's importance in the mid-to-high-end market [1] Group 1 - The shipment volume of foldable smartphones is projected to reach 19.8 million units by 2025 [1] - The penetration rate for foldable smartphones is estimated to be around 1.6%, consistent with 2024 [1] - Although growth has slowed compared to previous years, advancements in technology and price reductions are driving interest in foldable smartphones [1] Group 2 - Foldable smartphones are becoming a key focus for mid-to-high-end markets and a tool for brand differentiation [1] - Major manufacturers are accelerating the development of new products and expanding their product lines and price ranges [1] - The industry is preparing for a potential market explosion in 2026 [1]

Core Insights - The article discusses the projected growth and market dynamics of foldable smartphones, highlighting a forecasted shipment of 19.8 million units by 2025, maintaining a penetration rate of approximately 1.6% compared to 2024 [1] - Despite a slowdown in growth compared to previous years, advancements in technology and price reductions are making foldable phones a focal point in the mid-to-high-end market, with manufacturers preparing for a potential market explosion in 2026 [1][6] Group 1: Market Leaders and Competitors - Samsung remains the leader in the foldable smartphone market, recently launching the Galaxy Z Fold7 with significant improvements in hinge structure, crease control, and weight [4] - Huawei is expected to maintain strong performance in the Chinese market, with a global market share of 34.3% in 2025, while brands like Honor and Lenovo are projected to increase their market shares significantly [5] - Xiaomi is also making strides in the lightweight foldable market, with an expected market share growth from 3.0% in 2024 to 5.1% in 2025 [5] Group 2: Consumer Sentiment and Market Challenges - Despite improvements in technology and product variety, global sales growth of foldable phones remains moderate due to consumer hesitance regarding crease visibility, durability, and pricing, particularly among non-brand loyal users [5] - The current market positioning of foldable phones is seen as "high-end experimental products," as most users prefer high-cost-performance traditional flagship models [5] Group 3: Future Outlook - A potential turning point for the foldable smartphone market may occur in 2026 with Apple's anticipated launch of its first foldable phone, which could significantly increase consumer interest and acceptance [6] - Apple's strategy is expected to focus on stability and ecosystem integration, enhancing user experience through optimized iOS applications and hardware [6] - Overall, foldable smartphones are evolving from mere brand innovation showcases to becoming a core product line, with comprehensive planning across entry-level to flagship models [6]