Counterpoint Sees Apple’s Foldable iPhone Driving 46% Panel Surge in 2026
The book‑style design is poised to become the segment’s default, boosting Samsung Display’s share above half.
Overview
- Counterpoint Research reports that Apple is procuring panels for its first foldable iPhone, which is expected to debut around mid‑September 2026.
- Foldable panel shipments are forecast to rise 46% year over year in 2026, with overall foldable smartphone shipments projected to grow 14% in 2025 and 38% in 2026.
- Book‑type devices are projected to dominate next year, while multi‑fold panels are expected to hold only a low single‑digit share.
- Samsung Display is expected to supply Apple’s foldable panel and lift its market share past 50%, with average selling prices for panels set to increase.
- Recent sales trends point to demand for larger, productivity‑oriented displays, as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold outpaced the Flip during early H2 2025 sales, while specific panel order counts for Apple remain unconfirmed.