Global Foldable Phone Market to Hit 19.8M Units in 2025 – Samsung’s Lead Shrinks as Apple Looms

The global foldable smartphone market is growing—but at a measured pace, according to the latest TrendForce report. Despite innovation, foldables still face adoption challenges including durability concerns, the visible crease, and their typically high prices.

Foldables to Capture 1.6% of Global Smartphone Market in 2025

TrendForce estimates that 19.8 million foldable phones will be shipped this year, maintaining the same 1.6% share of the total smartphone market as in 2024.

Samsung's Market Share Declines as Competition Heats Up

Samsung remains the global leader in the foldable space, but its market share is expected to drop from 45.2% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025. Meanwhile, Huawei is catching up fast, with a minor dip from 35.2% to 34.2%, narrowing the gap between the two tech giants to just over 1%.

Rising Brands in the Foldable Race

Several other OEMs are gaining ground:

Honor: from 6% to 9.1%

Motorola: from 5.5% to 7.6%

Oppo & vivo (combined): 8.5% projected in 2025

Xiaomi: from 3% to 5.1%

These brands are expected to continue expanding their footprint in the foldable segment through more affordable and durable offerings.

Apple Foldable Could Reshape the Market

The biggest disruption may come from Apple, which is rumored to enter the foldable space as early as next year. The company has reportedly placed panel orders with Samsung Display and is focusing on eliminating the crease and using liquid metal for enhanced durability.

However, pricing is still expected to be premium — no surprise for a first-gen Apple product.

If Apple delivers on both innovation and experience, its foldable could redefine the segment and push global adoption beyond the current slow growth trajectory.