Foldable smartphone displays declined year-over-year (Y/Y) for the first time in the third quarter of 2024, and 2025 sales are also expected to be down, according to a DSCC report. Can an “iPhone Fold” reignite sales of foldable smartphones?
DSCC says foldable smartphone adoption is below expectations as Samsung remains regionally concentrated, Chinese brands are pulling back, and the market remains dominated by just two brands. The research group adds that there’s reason for optimism with Apple introduce a foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. (Personally, I remain skeptical that the company will ever introduce a foldable smartphone.) In addition, DSCC expects more multi-fold models coming in 2026 and the first slidable laptop in 2025.
From the report: Although the market has stalled and will decline for the first time on a panel procurement basis in 2025, there is reason for optimism. Apple is expected to enter the foldable market in 2H’26 and given their dominant position in flagship smartphones could generate significant growth for the foldable smartphone market. Any improvement in form factor, functionality, use cases, durability, etc. could drive new demand for this market. As a result, 2026 is expected to be a record year for foldables with over 30% growth and with over 20% growth projected for 2027 and 2028 as well. In addition, we expect at least one other brand to adopt a tri-fold in 2026 and expect to see the first slidable laptop in 2025 with more models coming in 2026.
