Counterpoint: Apple foldable panel shipments could rise 167% by 2030

Counterpoint Research has released a report examining the potential growth of foldable smartphone shipments by 2030, with a particular focus on the impact of Apple's upcoming iPhone Duo. According to the report, Apple is forecast to hold a 27% share of foldable panel shipments in 2026, despite launching the iPhone Duo only next month.

Samsung is expected to maintain its top position with a 33% share, following an 8% year-over-year increase in shipments. Huawei is projected to rank third with a 25% share, down from its 27% share in 2026, as its shipments decline by 6%. Looking further ahead, Counterpoint anticipates foldable panel shipments to grow by 74% between 2026 and 2030, representing an average compound annual growth rate of approximately 15%.

This surge in demand is expected to propel Apple's shipments by 167% from their H2-only 2026 base to 2030, raising the brand's share by roughly 15 percentage points to 42%. Samsung's shipments are expected to increase by 27%, albeit with its share falling to 24%. Huawei's shipments are forecast to rise by a mere 3%, with its share declining to 15%.

Furthermore, Counterpoint outlines the projected distribution of foldable panel shipments across in-fold, multi-fold, and clamshell designs by 2030. In-fold shipments are expected to grow by 79% from 2026 to 2030, increasing their share from 81% to 84%. Multi-fold shipments are forecast to rise by 179%, lifting their share from 2.8% to 4.5%.

Clamshell shipments are projected to grow by 27%, but their share would decrease by approximately 4 percentage points to 12%. For a comprehensive analysis, readers can refer to Counterpoint's full report at the provided link.