The global foldable smartphone industry is on the verge of major changes. According to data from the analytics agency Counterpoint Research, the launch of Apple's first foldable device, scheduled for 2026, could radically alter the balance of power. The company, traditionally dominating the premium segment, could immediately capture a quarter of the market for such devices.
New Market Map: Samsung Loses Leadership
According to forecasts, the market structure in 2026 will undergo significant changes. The South Korean giant Samsung, which has held undisputed primacy for the past few years, will retain its title of leader, although its share will decrease from 40% to 32%.
The main beneficiary of these changes will be Apple. Analysts predict that the debut foldable iPhone will immediately propel the company to second place with a figure of 25%. This will allow the American tech giant to overtake its Chinese competitor Huawei, whose share, according to experts, will drop from 30% to 24%.
Other Players and Overall Segment Growth
Motorola with an 8% share and Honor with 3% will also make it into the top five leaders. The remaining manufacturers will collectively occupy 8% of the market. Overall, global shipments of foldable smartphones in 2026, according to Counterpoint Research, are expected to grow by 21% compared to the previous year.
Analysts link this surge in interest not only to the launch of a new Apple product but also to the development of artificial intelligence. The implementation of advanced AI functions increases the demand for devices with large screens, which are ideal for working with documents, content editing, and managing complex tasks.
Coincidence or Strategy? Similarity to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8
The publication of the report coincided with the announcement of a new generation of foldable smartphones from Samsung, led by the Galaxy Z Fold8 model. Notably, the shortened and wider body of the new device resembles the construction attributed to the future iPhone Ultra by rumors.
Samsung's mobile division head Drew Blackard, speaking to The Wall Street Journal journalist Joanna Stern, stated that this visual similarity was accidental. Nevertheless, competition in the premium segment of foldable devices promises to become one of the fiercest in the history of the industry.
