Global foldable smartphone shipments in 2024 grew by just 2.9% year-on-year despite some manufacturers posting record growth. Samsung and OPPO are the main reasons for the slow growth, according to a new report from analyst firm Counterpoint Research.
Overall market growth in 2024 was impacted by a difficult Q4 for Samsung due to political instability, as well as a reduction in production of more affordable foldable smartphones by OPPO. At the same time, Huawei, Motorola, HONOR and Xiaomi had strong growth, which helped stabilize the situation. 2025 will be even more difficult and foldable smartphone shipments will fall.
At the same time, a report by Counterpoint Research has optimistic forecasts for 2026. According to the company, the foldable smartphone market will grow to double digits next year. In particular, this will be facilitated by the possible release of a foldable iPhone from Apple.
“I don’t see many positives this year and we are actually expecting negative growth for the segment, which will be a first,” said senior analyst Jene Park. “But it is definitely not a sign of the market peaking; rather it is a sign of regrouping before 2026, which is expected to be exciting and rejuvenating for the segment with the entry of Apple and a slew of clamshells.”