Foldable Smartphone Market Report: Trends, Forecast and Competitive Analysis to 2031

Foldable Smartphone Market Trends and Forecast

The future of the global foldable smartphone market looks promising with opportunities in the consumer, enterprise/corporate, and government & defense markets. The global foldable smartphone market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 13.5% from 2025 to 2031. The major drivers for this market are the increasing demand for portable multi-functional devices, the rising adoption of flexible display technologies, and the growing preference for premium innovative smartphones.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the form factor category, book-style is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
• Within the end use category, consumer is expected to witness the highest growth.
• In terms of region, APAC is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.

Gain valuable insights for your business decisions with our comprehensive 150+ page report. Sample figures with some insights are shown below.

Emerging Trends in the Foldable Smartphone Market

The foldable smartphone market is rapidly evolving, influenced by technological innovations, consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics. As manufacturers push the boundaries of design, new trends are reshaping the market. Understanding these trends can provide insights into how the market will evolve in the coming years.

• Improved Durability and Build Quality: Foldable smartphones have historically been criticized for their fragility. However, manufacturers have significantly improved durability by using tougher materials and engineering foldable displays with better resistance to wear. This is making foldables more reliable and appealing to a wider range of consumers.
• Increased Affordability: Initially a premium product, foldable smartphones are becoming more affordable due to manufacturing improvements and increased competition. Entry-level foldables and mid-tier models are being introduced, broadening market reach beyond early adopters and attracting budget-conscious consumers who desire cutting-edge technology at a lower price point.
• 5G Integration: Foldables with 5G capabilities are becoming a standard offering, enhancing the user experience with faster internet speeds. As 5G networks expand, foldables are positioned as future-proof devices for consumers who need high-speed connectivity for media consumption, gaming, and remote work.
• Multi-Screen and Multi-Tasking Features: Foldable smartphones are increasingly being optimized for multitasking and enhanced productivity. Larger screens allow for more efficient use of apps in parallel, improving the overall workflow for users. This trend appeals to professionals and business users who require flexibility and versatility in their devices.
• Sustainability Focus: As sustainability becomes a priority for consumers, manufacturers are focusing on using eco-friendly materials and adopting energy-efficient designs. This trend reflects the growing demand for products that minimize environmental impact, making foldables more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

The trends shaping the foldable smartphone market highlight a shift toward greater functionality, accessibility, and sustainability. As more consumers adopt foldable devices, manufacturers will continue innovating to address durability concerns, reduce costs, and enhance usability. These trends indicate a promising future for foldable smartphones as they become an integral part of the smartphone landscape.

Recent Developments in the Foldable Smartphone Market

Recent developments in the foldable smartphone market indicate a shift toward greater innovation, affordability, and functionality. Manufacturers are introducing more models, improving durability, and focusing on consumer demands for flexible and versatile devices. The market is evolving with the adoption of new technologies and strategic partnerships, signaling its potential for long-term growth.

• Improved Screen Technology: Foldable smartphones have benefited from breakthroughs in screen technology, including the development of ultra-thin glass and flexible OLED displays. These advancements make screens more durable and resistant to creasing, addressing one of the main concerns with earlier foldable models. The improved display quality is crucial for enhancing the user experience.
• Expansion of Foldable Models: Samsung and other manufacturers are introducing multiple foldable models catering to different price points. This expansion includes flip-style devices and larger book-style foldables, offering more choice to consumers. These models aim to appeal to both the premium and mid-range market segments, broadening the target audience for foldables.
• Integration of Advanced Software Features: Foldable smartphones are benefiting from optimized software that supports multi-tasking and enhanced app functionality. For example, Samsungs One UI includes features like Flex Mode, which adjusts the UI to maximize usability when the device is in different folded positions. This software development increases the appeal of foldables.
• Faster Charging and Battery Improvements: New foldable devices feature faster charging technology and improved battery management systems. These enhancements address the power consumption challenges of large screens and multitasking features, ensuring that foldables offer better endurance throughout the day, making them more practical for everyday use.
• Competitive Pricing and Affordability: Foldable smartphones are gradually becoming more affordable due to advances in production efficiency. Companies like Samsung, Motorola, and Huawei are introducing more competitively priced models, targeting a broader range of consumers. This development signals that foldables will soon move from being a niche product to a mainstream device.

These key developments are helping foldable smartphones evolve into more practical, affordable, and versatile devices. As manufacturers continue to innovate and refine their offerings, foldables will become increasingly mainstream, attracting a wider consumer base and reshaping the smartphone market.

Strategic Growth Opportunities in the Foldable Smartphone Market

The foldable smartphone market presents significant growth opportunities across multiple applications, ranging from premium consumer devices to business and productivity solutions. As technology improves and manufacturing costs decrease, new opportunities arise, driving the development of innovative products that cater to a variety of needs and preferences.

• Premium Consumer Segment: Foldables offer an attractive option for high-end consumers seeking cutting-edge technology. With improved durability, performance, and screen sizes, foldables appeal to those who want a premium, multifunctional device. This segment will continue to drive growth as more consumers demand innovative, luxurious smartphones with advanced features.
• Enterprise and Business Use: Foldables are increasingly being targeted at business professionals. The ability to multitask on larger screens, combined with portability, makes foldables an appealing choice for productivity on the go. With further software optimization, these devices could replace traditional laptops for tasks like video conferencing and document editing.
• Gaming and Entertainment: With larger, flexible screens and the integration of 5G, foldable smartphones are ideal for gaming and entertainment. The larger display offers a more immersive experience, while 5G ensures faster data transfer for streaming. These devices are positioned to cater to a growing gaming community looking for high-performance, portable devices.
• Mid-Tier Market Expansion: As prices for foldable smartphones decrease, manufacturers are targeting the mid-tier market. By offering affordable yet feature-rich models, foldables can reach a broader audience, especially in emerging markets. The introduction of lower-priced foldables could accelerate growth in regions like India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.
• Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Buyers: Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, leading to demand for sustainable products. Foldable smartphones designed with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies offer an opportunity to tap into the growing sustainable consumer segment. Manufacturers focusing on green innovations will gain a competitive advantage in this emerging market.

Growth opportunities in foldable smartphones span diverse applications, including premium, business, and entertainment markets. Manufacturers can capitalize on these opportunities by targeting different consumer segments with affordable, sustainable, and feature-rich devices. As the market matures, foldables are poised to become a key category in the global smartphone industry.

Foldable Smartphone Market Driver and Challenges

The foldable smartphone market is influenced by multiple drivers and challenges, including technological advancements, economic factors, and evolving consumer preferences. While the market offers substantial growth potential, several hurdles need to be addressed for broader adoption, including production challenges and price concerns.

The factors responsible for driving the foldable smartphone market include:

1. Technological Advancements in Display Technology: Advances in flexible OLED and ultra-thin glass have drastically improved foldable smartphones durability and display quality. These technologies have resolved previous concerns about screen creasing and fragility, making foldables more attractive to consumers. As display technology continues to evolve, it will further enhance user experience.

2. Increased Demand for Larger Screens: With consumers seeking more versatile and multifunctional devices, foldable smartphones offer the ability to deliver larger screens without sacrificing portability. This demand for larger displays for gaming, productivity, and media consumption is a key driver pushing foldable smartphones into the mainstream market.

3. 5G Network Expansion: The global rollout of 5G networks has contributed to the demand for foldable smartphones that offer faster internet speeds. Foldable devices with 5G compatibility cater to consumers looking for faster downloads, seamless streaming, and improved gaming experiences, making them a valuable investment.

4. Consumer Desire for Innovative Designs: The unique form factor of foldable smartphones appeals to tech-savvy consumers who crave innovation and exclusivity. Foldables stand out as futuristic devices with the potential to reshape how people use smartphones, providing a competitive advantage in a crowded smartphone market.

5. Competitive Pressure from Brands: As more manufacturers enter the foldable market, competition is driving rapid innovation and cost reduction. Companies like Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola are investing heavily in foldable technology, pushing the industry forward. This competitive environment fosters continuous improvements in product offerings, expanding the market for foldables.

Challenges in the foldable smartphone market are:

1. High Manufacturing Costs: Producing foldable smartphones remains expensive due to the advanced materials and complex design required for foldable screens. These high costs contribute to higher retail prices, limiting the accessibility of foldables to only premium consumers. Reducing manufacturing costs is critical for broadening market reach.

2. Durability Concerns: Despite improvements, concerns about the long-term durability of foldable displays remain a challenge. Consumers are hesitant to invest in devices that may suffer from screen damage over time, particularly when folding mechanisms are involved. Overcoming these concerns is key to increasing consumer confidence in foldables.

3. Limited Consumer Awareness: While foldables are gaining traction, many consumers are still unaware of their benefits or remain skeptical about their practicality. Manufacturers need to educate the market and demonstrate the value proposition of foldable devices to drive broader adoption and convince hesitant buyers.

While the foldable smartphone market is poised for growth, it faces several challenges that need to be overcome. Technological advancements, increasing consumer demand, and competitive dynamics are key drivers of growth, while high costs, durability issues, and limited awareness remain challenges. By addressing these obstacles, foldable smartphones can establish themselves as a dominant force in the industry.

List of Foldable Smartphone Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. With these strategies foldable smartphone companies cater increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the foldable smartphone companies profiled in this report include-

• Samsung Electronics
• Huawei Technologies
• Motorola Mobility
• Xiaomi Corp.
• Oppo
• vivo Communication Technology
• Royole Corp.
• Honor Device
• TCL Technology Group Corp.
• ZTE Corporation

Foldable Smartphone Market by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the global foldable smartphone market by form factor, sales channel, end use, and region.

Foldable Smartphone Market by Form Factor [Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Clamshell
• Book-Style
• Outward Fold
• Rollable/Slide-out

Foldable Smartphone Market by Sales Channel [Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Carrier/Operator Stores
• Consumer Electronics & Specialty Retail
• E-commerce/Direct-to-Consumer

Foldable Smartphone Market by End Use [Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Consumer
• Enterprise/Corporate
• Government & Defense

Foldable Smartphone Market by Region [Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• The Rest of the World

Country Wise Outlook for the Foldable Smartphone Market

The foldable smartphone market is gaining momentum globally, with advancements across technology, design, and market accessibility in key regions like the U.S., China, Germany, India, and Japan. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for innovative, versatile devices. As the foldable segment continues to evolve, major players are focusing on expanding their presence and improving product offerings.

• United States: Foldable growth is evident in the U.S., with major players like Samsung and Motorola leading the way. Companies are focusing on improving durability and enhancing the user experience. The market is also being driven by the availability of 5G and consumer interest in cutting-edge technologies. The U.S. market shows steady demand for premium foldables.
• China: China has emerged as a major player in the foldable market, with brands like Huawei and Xiaomi pushing innovation. The focus is on providing competitive pricing and incorporating 5G connectivity. China’s robust manufacturing and tech ecosystem make foldables accessible at multiple price points, allowing the market to expand rapidly. Local brands are leading innovation.
• Germany: Germanys foldable smartphone market is growing, driven by an increase in consumer awareness and a growing desire for flexible, portable devices. Samsung’s foldable line is popular, but competitors like Huawei are starting to gain traction. German consumers value quality and durability, so foldable manufacturers are enhancing build materials and designs for premium segments.
• India: In India, foldable smartphones are still a niche segment but are gaining traction, particularly among tech enthusiasts and early adopters. Brands like Samsung have targeted the premium market, while localized brands are starting to experiment with more affordable models. Rising disposable incomes and a growing interest in high-tech gadgets are driving future demand.
• Japan: Japan’s foldable market is experiencing steady growth, with Samsung and Sharp being key players. There is strong consumer interest in compact, portable devices that also offer functionality. Japanese consumers value both innovation and quality, pushing manufacturers to focus on screen durability and battery life. Foldables are likely to become mainstream in the next few years.

Features of the Global Foldable Smartphone Market

Market Size Estimates: Foldable smartphone market size estimation in terms of value ($B).

Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends (2019 to 2024) and forecast (2025 to 2031) by various segments and regions.

Segmentation Analysis: Foldable smartphone market size by form factor, sales channel, end use, and region in terms of value ($B).

Regional Analysis: Foldable smartphone market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.

Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different form factors, sales channels, end uses, and regions for the foldable smartphone market.

Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the foldable smartphone market.

Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

This report answers following 11 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the foldable smartphone market by form factor (clamshell, book-style, outward fold, and rollable/slide-out), sales channel (carrier/operator stores, consumer electronics & specialty retail, and E-commerce/direct-to-consumer), end use (consumer, enterprise/corporate, and government & defense), and region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?

Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?

Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?

Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?

Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?

Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?

Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?

Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?

Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?

Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?

Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?

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