Apple’s foldable screen will be a turning point in the industry

According to a report released by market research firm TrendForce on July 23, shipments of foldable smartphones will reach 19.8 million units in 2025, with market penetration remaining at around 1.6%, the same as in 2024.

Samsung currently leads the field of foldable devices, and its global market share will drop from 45.2% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025. Huawei maintains strong sales momentum in China and ranks second in the world with a share of 34.3% in 2025.

TrendForce pointed out that this situation may change in 2026. Apple is likely to launch its first foldable screen mobile phone in the second half of next year. The phone will be equipped with a 5.5-inch external screen and a 7.8-inch internal screen. Apple’s entry is expected to significantly increase consumers’ interest and acceptance of foldable devices, especially in the high-end user market.

TrendForce believes that Apple’s launch of a foldable phone in 2026 will be an industry turning point in the foldable screen market. Apple will push foldable devices into the mainstream market and inject new impetus into the smartphone industry.

Unlike other folding screens, the advantage of Apple’s folding screen lies in its ecosystem. Apple iOS 27 will be exclusively optimized for folding screens, thus achieving seamless collaboration between software and hardware, which is Apple’s killer feature.

In addition, Apple’s folding screen adopts a crease-free design, the panel is provided by Samsung, it has a rear dual camera, and is equipped with an A20 Pro chip. The battery capacity is expected to exceed 5000mAh.

According to supply chain information, trial production of folding panels has begun, and large-scale mass production is expected to start by the end of 2025, with an annual production capacity of tens of millions of pieces.

Overall, foldables are evolving from a mere innovation showcase to a mature product category that will become more popular as prices drop and materials improve.