Foldable Phone Panel Shipments Will Increase with iPhone Fold
According to the Counterpoint Research report, Apple’s entry into the foldable phone market will lead to growth in panel shipments and increased revenue in 2026.
According to a new report published by Counterpoint Research, Apple’s entry into the foldable phone market will initiate a significant upward trend in foldable phone panel shipments in 2026. The market, which experienced a 7% decline in the first quarter of the year due to brand stock inspections and reduced new product launches, will enter a recovery period in the second half of the year with Apple’s potential attack and increasing productivity needs. Experts predict that this development will lead to significant mobility in the display technologies supply chain.
- Foldable phone panel shipments are expected to increase by 24% throughout the year.
- Panel revenues are expected to increase by approximately 48% on an annual basis.
- BOE maintains its leadership in foldable display supply with a 45% market share.
- Samsung Display becomes the sole supplier for Apple’s first foldable iPhone model.
Foldable Display Market Shows Growth Again
According to market analysts, the calmness experienced in the first quarter of 2026 will be replaced by a strong recovery in the second half of the year. Counterpoint Research summarizes this process as “the first half tests the bottom level, while the second half tests the recovery.” The success of Apple and Samsung’s new generation product strategies is critical for the division to enter another growth cycle.
Foldable display technology is now moving from a niche category to the mainstream.
Supplier Balances Continue to Shape
Competition in the industry continues intensely among panel manufacturers. BOE maintains its leadership with a market share of 45%, while Samsung Display ranks second with 22%. However, Samsung Display’s special supply agreement with Apple shows that the company can further increase its market share in the coming period. On the other hand, manufacturers such as Visionox, TCL CSOT and Tianma continue to take a share from the expansion of the market.
Especially in-fold devices have now become a much more popular option compared to clamshell designs. The increasing demand for productivity scenarios and big screen experiences are among the main factors fueling this change. Apple’s involvement in this market is seen as not only a brand change, but also a turning point in terms of standardization of user experience.
Apple’s entry into the foldable market could permanently alter panel shipping stability across the division.
The development of technology allows devices to become more robust and functional. As foldable screen devices become more widespread, consumers’ expectations from portable devices are also increasing. In particular, battery efficiency and software optimization are as important as hardware quality. Branch representatives agree that 2026 will be a breakthrough year for foldable devices.
How do you think a foldable iPhone model would change your portable device usage habits? Are you considering switching to this technology, or do you prefer classic designs? Share your comments with us.
