Unfolding the Future: A Look at the Foldable Phone Market
Impressive Foldable Phones Come with Significant Sacrifices in Functionality
The world of foldable phones is unfolding at a steady pace, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of technology to create devices that offer a unique blend of portability and screen size.
Foldable phones, such as Samsung's latest Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the retro Razr+ by Motorola, are engineered to withstand hundreds of thousands of folds, equating to a decade of daily use. Despite this durability, the devices remain more prone to damage compared to traditional phones, and their battery life still lags behind.
The market for foldable phones is projected to reach 19.8 million units in 2025, maintaining a global penetration rate of about 1.6%. However, it is valued at $31.3 billion by 2025, with a forecasted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.59% through 2030. Samsung leads the market with its Galaxy Z series, with Huawei close behind, and brands like Honor and Lenovo (Motorola) expanding their presence.
Innovation and competition are driving the sector forward, with brands introducing new designs, such as tri-fold and ultra-thin concepts, and more affordable models to expand market access. Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable market in 2026 is expected to drive further innovation and mainstream adoption, with rumours suggesting that the company will release two models, one folding like a book and the other like a flip phone.
Google's plans for foldable phones are uncertain, with potential delays or cancellations for products like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Google might focus on refining its products before a significant release.
The software on foldable phones is currently in beta stage, and the wow factor of these devices fades fast, but the price tag does not. Despite the challenges, the sector remains attractive to early adopters, tech collectors, and those who like to show off gadgets.
In August 2025, Google is set to release a new foldable phone, and in 2026, Apple is expected to join the foldable phone race, which is expected to stimulate broader market growth and interest in foldable devices.
Overall, the foldable phone market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements and increased competition, with major players like Samsung, Huawei, and Apple expected to play critical roles in shaping the future of this segment. While the devices offer more surface area, it remains to be seen whether they provide more value in the long term.
[1] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Unveiled [2] Apple's First Foldable iPhone to Launch in 2026 [3] Foldable Phone Market to Reach $31.3 Billion by 2025 [4] Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold Faces Delays or Cancellation [5] Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7: A Game Changer in Foldable Technology
- The foldable phone market, with Samsung leading in innovation and Huawei close behind, is predicted to grow significantly, reaching a value of $31.3 billion by 2025, driven by technological advancements and increased competition.
- The latest addition to the foldable phone market is Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, engineered to withstand hundreds of thousands of folds for a decade of daily use, despite its susceptibility to damage and shorter battery life compared to traditional phones.
- Apple is expected to join the foldable phone market in 2026, adding two models to the sector which might stimulate broader market growth and interest, with one model folding like a book and the other like a flip phone.
