Apple’s first foldable iPhone, expected to debut in the second half of 2026, is set to transform the foldable smartphone market, according to TrendForce. The launch could push foldable phone penetration from 1.6 percent in 2025 to more than 3 percent by 2027, driving mainstream adoption and opening new opportunities for suppliers.
The foldable smartphone market has been advancing through innovations in hinge technology, lighter materials, and slimmer designs. Samsung, currently the leader in foldables, set an industry standard with the Teardrop hinge introduced in its Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip models in 2023. This design reduced screen creases, improved durability, and enhanced flatness—contributing to steady demand growth.
TrendForce estimates the foldable hinge market will reach US$1.2 billion in 2025, with hinge assemblies accounting for 5–8 percent of the bill of materials (BOM) cost of each device.
Apple’s entry could bring a supply chain shake-up. The company is reportedly exploring liquid metal, composite materials, and advanced 3D printing processes to create foldable structures that balance durability with light weight.
Chinese supplier Eontec already has capabilities in liquid metal forming, making it a potential beneficiary if Apple moves ahead with this approach. Established suppliers like Taiwan’s Shin Zu Shin, U.S.-based Amphenol, and Chinese players such as NBTM New Materials and Gian Technology are also scaling up to meet demand for high-precision foldable components.
Apple typically avoids being a first mover, instead entering markets once technologies are proven. This “early majority adopter” strategy allows it to capture scale while avoiding early-stage risks. In the foldable iPhone era, Apple’s presence is expected to accelerate cost optimization, supply chain integration, and the adoption of standardized hinge and material specifications.
By reshaping competition around efficiency, yield rates, and pricing flexibility, Apple’s foldable phone could mark the inflection point that shifts foldables from a niche premium segment to a mainstream category. For suppliers and component makers, the company’s debut is likely to trigger the next wave of foldable phone market growth worldwide.
Foldable smartphone market
TrendForce forecasts foldable smartphone shipments at around 19.8 million units in 2025, representing approximately 1.6 percent market penetration — unchanged from 2024.
Cognitive Market Research report projects the global foldable smartphone market to be worth about USD 29.64 billion in 2025, with growth from USD 18.91 billion in 2021, reflecting a CAGR of roughly 13.7 percent between 2021 and 2025.
Mordor Intelligence report estimates the global foldable smartphone market at USD 31.30 billion in 2025, anticipating growth to USD 118.87 billion by 2030, at a robust 30.6 percent CAGR.
TrendForce report earlier indicated that Samsung remains the dominant player in the foldable segment, but its grip is loosening: its global market share is expected to decline from 45.2 percent in 2024 to 35.4 percent in 2025.
TechInsights report notes Samsung commands about 31.4 percent share in the flip-style foldable market, indicating its leadership across form factors.
Baburajan Kizhakedath
