A recent report from DSCC underlines the challenges faced by foldable smartphones in the marketplace. They have just experienced their first year-over-year decline, with projections indicating that conditions may worsen further. However, the report presents a glimmer of hope: Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone.
Rapid foldable growth has concluded earlier than anticipated
Foldable phones are just starting to emerge, but they appear to have already peaked. For the first time ever, Q3 2024 recorded a year-over-year decrease in panel acquisitions.
This trend doesn’t seem to be a mere anomaly, as DSCC analysts predict a downtrend for the entirety of 2025.
According to the DSCC report:
After enjoying consistent growth of at least 40% annually from 2019 to 2023, DSCC now predicts that the foldable smartphone display market will see only a 5% increase in 2024, followed by a 4% decline in 2025. Demand appears to have plateaued at around 22 million panels. Foldable smartphone display procurements fell by 38% year-over-year in Q3 2024 and are anticipated to decrease year-over-year in four of the next five quarters.
This news is particularly concerning for companies that are relying on foldable technology.
Apple’s iPhone likely to reverse the trend
It’s not surprising that the report predicts Apple’s foldable iPhone will revolutionize the market.
Set to launch in late 2026, this new version of the iPhone is expected to reinvigorate the foldable category, leading to a record year for such devices, according to DSCC.
Despite a projected stall in the market and anticipated decline in panel procurements in 2025, optimism remains. Apple is set to debut in the foldable sector in the latter half of 2026. Given Apple’s stronghold in high-end smartphones, there’s potential for substantial growth in the foldable market. Enhancements in design, functionality, use cases, and durability could boost demand. Thus, 2026 is projected to be a landmark year for foldables, with growth exceeding 30%, followed by over 20% growth expected in both 2027 and 2028.
If the foldable iPhone materializes, it will certainly influence the foldable market significantly.
However, placing all expectations on Apple’s iPhone raises concerns. Should the foldable device have already peaked, the challenges faced by other smartphone manufacturers may extend beyond Apple’s involvement.
While an iPhone collaboration would undoubtedly enhance the demand for foldables, the question remains: how substantial of a change can it bring to the fortunes of its competitors? Only time will reveal the answer.
What are your thoughts on the decline of foldables happening already? How impactful do you believe the iPhone will be? Share your opinions in the comments.
Best Apple discounts this Cyber Monday
: . More.
