At a Glance
- Global foldable phone shipments expected to rise 10% in 2025, then 30% in 2026.
- Huawei led China’s foldable market with a 68.9% share in Q3 2025.
- New models include Samsung’s TriFold and rumored Wide Fold, Apple’s iPhone Fold, and Huawei’s Mate XT and Pura X.
- Why it matters: Consumers will soon have four distinct foldable styles, each offering different screen sizes and use cases.
Foldable phones are still a niche category, but they’re gaining traction. In 2025, shipments grew 10% over 2024, and analysts predict a 30% jump in 2026. Rumors of an Apple iPhone Fold and Samsung’s Wide Fold are driving excitement.
The 2026 Foldable Landscape
By 2026, the market will feature four main foldable types: book-style, flip, trifold, and widescreen. Each offers unique benefits, from tablet-like displays to pocket-friendly designs. Manufacturers are improving hinge durability and reducing crease depth with new battery and hinge tech.
Design Types and Key Models
- Book-style: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Oppo Find N5, Honor Magic V5, Huawei Mate X7 (launched Dec 2025).
- Flip: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, Motorola Razr series, including the Razr Ultra 2025.
- Trifold: Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold and Huawei Mate XT. The Mate XT folds in a ‘Z’ shape, while the TriFold folds in a ‘C’ shape.
- Widescreen: Huawei Pura X with a 6.3-inch 16:10 display; Samsung’s rumored Wide Fold would feature a 5.4-inch cover screen and 25-watt wireless charging.
| Foldable Type | Example Models | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Book-style | Galaxy Z Fold 7, Mate X7 | Tablet-size display, slim crease |
| Flip | Galaxy Z Flip 7, Razr Ultra | Pocket-friendly, 6.9-inch slab mode |
| Trifold | Z TriFold, Mate XT | Dual-hinge, 10-inch or 16:11 screen |
| Widescreen | Pura X, rumored Wide Fold | 16:10 aspect, minimal letterboxing |
Market Growth and Share
IDC’s December report projected a 10% growth in 2025 and a 30% increase in 2026. Huawei’s dominance in China is highlighted by its 68.9% market share in Q3 2025, a rare feat in a category with many competitors.
Key Takeaways
- Foldable phones are set for a 30% shipment surge in 2026, driven by new Apple and Samsung models.
- Four distinct foldable styles will be available, each catering to different user preferences.
- Huawei remains the market leader in China, capturing almost 70% of the foldable market in late 2025.
The upcoming wave of foldable designs promises more versatility and choice for consumers, even as prices remain high.
