The foldable OLED market is facing a slump, with shipments dwindling and the industry eagerly awaiting Apple's game-changer. But will the tech giant's highly anticipated 2026 foldable iPhone be the savior?
UBI Research reveals a concerning trend: foldable OLED panel sales have been lackluster since the start of 2025, indicating a weak demand for foldable smartphones. With an estimated 21.3 million foldable OLED panels to be shipped this year, the market is set to shrink by 14.4% compared to 2024. This decline is surprising, considering the foldable smartphone market has reached its fifth year, and major players like Samsung and Huawei persist in launching new models.
The culprit? The high price tag of foldable screens, which has been a significant barrier to widespread adoption. But there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon. And this is where things get interesting...
UBI predicts that Apple's foldable phone launch in 2026 will be a market-defining moment, potentially boosting demand. However, the expected price of over $1,700 for Apple's foldable device may limit its mass appeal. Despite this, Apple's entry could catalyze innovation and inspire more manufacturers to join the foldable smartphone race, which might eventually lead to more affordable options.
Controversial Opinion: Apple's foldable iPhone might not be the sales hit the industry expects, but it could still be a catalyst for much-needed change. Will it be a success or a flop? Only time will tell. What's your take on the future of foldable smartphones? Share your thoughts in the comments!
