Apple Could Seize a Quarter of the Foldable Phone Market in Year One

Counterpoint Research says Apple’s expected entry into foldable smartphones could quickly reshape the premium device market, even though Samsung is likely to remain the largest maker in 2026. The firm forecasts global foldable shipments to rise 21% in 2026, helped by broader competition and rising interest in larger screens for AI-driven productivity. Samsung is projected to keep a 32% share, down from 40% in 2025, while Apple could take 25% in its first year and Huawei 24%. The report suggests Apple’s launch could expand consumer awareness, intensify competition, and pressure incumbents, but Samsung still has advantages in product maturity, distribution, and user experience. Apple shares were slightly lower in premarket trading, but the article frames the news as strategically positive for the foldable category rather than a near-term earnings catalyst for AAPL.