Apple to enter foldable market
Analysts project Apple’s entry will push global foldable shipments toward ~30 million units in 2026, threatening incumbents like Samsung, Oppo and Huawei and forcing new engineering work across hinges, materials and display integration. The form‑factor shift will create fresh demands for hardware‑software co‑optimization. (digitimes.com)
Counterpoint Research’s March 17, 2026 forecast estimates Apple could take roughly 28% of the global foldable‑phone shipments in 2026, closing the gap with current leaders. (counterpointresearch.com) IDC’s December 9, 2025 press release projects worldwide foldable smartphone shipments will rise about 30% year‑over‑year in 2026, and expects foldables to represent more than 10% of total smartphone market value by 2029. (my.idc.com) Multiple supply‑chain reports name Samsung Display as a principal panel partner for Apple’s first foldable, with Samsung starting screen production lines that are being tied to Apple’s timeline. (trendforce.com) Hinge orders are reported to be concentrated among a Foxconn–Shin Zu Shing joint effort, which is said to target roughly 65% of Apple’s hinge volume while Amphenol would cover the remaining ~35% of hinge manufacturing. (wccftech.com) Supply‑chain coverage indicates Apple’s foldable program has advanced into engineering validation or pre‑mass production after claims of a “crease‑free” inner display, and the company has begun stockpiling key components ahead of a 2026 launch window. (particle.news) Market estimates converge on a premium launch price near $2,399 and early‑year unit projections in the single‑digit millions (reports commonly cite 8–10 million units as an early target), underpinning manufacturers’ ramp plans and cost‑engineering for hinges and materials. (macrumors.com)
