Apple's Entry into Foldable Market Expected to Drive 30% Growth in 2026

The foldable smartphone market is poised for substantial growth in 2026, driven by Apple's expected entry into the segment with its first foldable iPhone. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), the market is projected to experience a 30% year-over-year increase, a significant rise from the previously forecasted 6%.

Nabila Popal, senior research director with IDC's Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, stated, :

"Next year will prove exciting for the foldable category with multiple launches pushing the market to 30% YoY growth from just 6% in the prior forecast."

Samsung is set to introduce the Galaxy Z TriFold in early 2026, bringing tri-fold innovation to mainstream consumers. Huawei's foldables running on HarmonyOS Next are also expected to see strong growth, with shipments projected to nearly double in 2026.

However, the most significant impact is anticipated from Apple's entry into the foldable space at the end of 2026. The iPhone Fold is projected to capture over 22% of unit share and 34% of the foldable market's value in its first year, attributed to an expected average price point of $2,400.

Apple's foray into the foldable market is expected to invigorate the segment, potentially leading to increased consumer interest and adoption of foldable devices.