The Foldable Phone Market's Growth Slows: Potential First-Ever Negative Growth in 2025, Strong Rebound Expected in 2026

The Foldable Phone Market's Growth Slows: Potential First-Ever Negative Growth in 2025, Strong Rebound Expected in 2026A March 28th blog post from market research firm CounterPoint Research indicates sluggish growth in the global foldable phone market in 2024, with a year-over-year increase of only 2.9%

The Foldable Phone Market's Growth Slows: Potential First-Ever Negative Growth in 2025, Strong Rebound Expected in 2026

A March 28th blog post from market research firm CounterPoint Research indicates sluggish growth in the global foldable phone market in 2024, with a year-over-year increase of only 2.9%. This data reveals a significant slowdown and foreshadows potential challenges.

While Huawei, Motorola, Honor, and Xiaomi reported double-digit or even triple-digit growth in 2024, the report highlights Samsung's sharp fourth-quarter sales decline and OPPO's reduction in low-priced clamshell foldable production as contributing factors to the overall market weakness. Samsung's decline, as the market leader, significantly impacted the overall results. OPPO's strategy adjustment reflects intensifying competition and cautious market outlook. The reduced production of low-priced clamshell foldables indicates manufacturers are reassessing market demand and adapting product strategies.

CounterPoint Research predicts even tougher challenges in 2025, potentially resulting in single-digit negative growth the first ever for the foldable phone market since its emergence. This raises concerns, but Jene Park, a senior analyst at CounterPoint Research, believes this isn't a market peak but rather a build-up for a 2026 boom. He suggests the negative growth will be a temporary adjustment, a market transformation preparing for future expansion.

This view is supported by Calvin Lee, research director at CounterPoint Research. He points to long lead times for foldable panel orders from the supply chain, indicating persistent demand, albeit in a transitional phase. He sees the current downturn not as stagnation but as a temporary setback before a transformation. Manufacturers' preparations for future competition might be a factor contributing to the 2025 dip.

CounterPoint Research is optimistic about 2026, forecasting a double-digit year-over-year increase in foldable panel procurement, signifying a strong rebound. Apple's anticipated 2026 entry into the foldable phone market is expected to inject new energy and further stimulate demand. The resurgence of clamshell foldables will also contribute to growth. These factors combined could lead to double-digit growth in 2026.

Apple's entry will profoundly impact the market landscape. As the world's largest smartphone manufacturer, its brand influence and technological prowess are undeniable. Its entry will significantly increase market attention and attract more consumers. It will also introduce new design concepts and technological innovations, furthering foldable phone technology.

The resurgence of clamshell foldables offers renewed hope. Their smaller size and portability appeal to some consumers. Previous limitations in technology and cost hindered their development, but advancements are expected to revive their growth.

Nevertheless, the potential 2025 negative growth remains a significant challenge. Manufacturers need to adapt to market changes, adjust strategies, and enhance product competitiveness to thrive. This requires comprehensive improvements in product design, technological innovation, and marketing.

In conclusion, the foldable phone market is undergoing a crucial transition. The 2024 slowdown and potential 2025 negative growth are not signs of decline but a temporary adjustment. With Apple's entry and the revival of clamshell foldables, 2026 is poised for a strong rebound with double-digit growth. However, manufacturers must prepare, proactively addressing challenges to capitalize on this opportunity. Long-term supply chain orders confirm this; the market isn't stagnant, but rather accumulating potential for a breakthrough. This requires comprehensive strategic adjustments and planning across product innovation, marketing, and supply chain management to secure a competitive advantage. 2025 will be critical, with manufacturers' responses directly impacting the market's future trajectory.