Core Insights - Counterpoint Research predicts a 46% year-on-year growth in foldable smartphone panel shipments by 2026, driven by Apple's entry into the market with its first foldable iPhone [4][5] - The book-style foldable panels are expected to solidify their dominant position, with Samsung Display projected to capture over 50% market share [4][5] - The overall foldable smartphone shipments are forecasted to grow by 14% in 2025 and 38% in 2026, with book-style models leading the market [5][7] Market Trends - The demand for larger screens and enhanced multitasking capabilities is driving consumer preference towards book-style foldable designs, despite their higher price [7] - The global foldable smartphone market is showing signs of recovery, with a 45% year-on-year growth in Q2 2025, setting the stage for explosive growth in 2026 [7] - The introduction of new models, such as the Galaxy Z TriFold, will maintain the market share of multi-fold designs in the low single digits [5][7] Company Overview - Counterpoint Research specializes in technology ecosystem market research, providing services to a wide range of clients from smartphone OEMs to chip manufacturers and large tech companies [8] - The company has a team of experienced analysts covering various sectors, including AI, automotive electronics, consumer electronics, and semiconductors [8]

Core Insights - The global foldable smartphone shipment volume reached a record high in Q3 2025, with a year-on-year growth of 14%, driven primarily by the strong performance of Samsung's Galaxy Z7 series [4][5]. Market Performance - In Q3 2025, foldable smartphones accounted for 2.5% of global smartphone shipments, indicating a growing acceptance in the high-end market [5]. - The book-style foldable models led market expansion, supported by the launch of Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7 and Huawei's Mate series [5]. - The clamshell foldable models also performed well, benefiting from Samsung's refreshed product line and the strong showing of Motorola's Razr 60 series [5]. Future Projections - The foldable smartphone market is expected to close 2025 with a year-on-year growth of around 16%, maintaining a stable growth trajectory [8]. - By 2026, the market is anticipated to enter a significant expansion phase, driven by improvements in durability, thinner and lighter designs, and enhanced AI-driven software experiences [8]. - Apple is expected to enter the foldable market in the second half of 2026, potentially triggering a new upgrade cycle among high-end users [8][9]. Competitive Landscape - The competition in the foldable smartphone market is set to intensify with Apple's entry, prompting existing manufacturers to accelerate their technological advancements and product differentiation strategies [8][10]. - Samsung's recent launch of the Galaxy Z TriFold is a strategic pilot aimed at solidifying its technological leadership before broader commercialization [9][10].