According to the latest Counterpoint Research report, global shipments of foldable smartphone panels dropped by 13% in the first half of 2026. This decline was driven by a 62% decrease in clamshell panel shipments, while book-style foldable panels saw a 35% growth, increasing their market share to 78%.
Analysts project a 23% increase in total foldable panel shipments for the full year of 2026 compared to 2025. The second half of the year is expected to see a significant recovery, with shipments projected to grow 53% over the first half and 71% compared to the same period in 2025, accounting for 61% of the annual total.
Apple is expected to become a major market driver, contributing 27% of total shipments in 2026, with all activity concentrated in the second half. Samsung is forecast to retain the top position with a 33% market share, followed by Huawei at 25%. Together, these three companies will control 86% of the market.
The market shift toward book-style devices is expected to continue throughout 2026. Shipments of large foldable panels are projected to grow by 107%, reaching an 81% market share. Conversely, clamshell panels are expected to decline by 59%, while multi-foldable panels will likely maintain a modest 3% share.
