Apple’s entry in the foldable market could impact Huawei and Samsung’s global sales share this year, but a report still says that the Chinese company will continue to be a strong player despite the fierce competition in the folding phone battle.
Counterpoint has shared a new report, revealing Samsung as the champion of the foldable market in 2026. The new analysis is a forecast of the global fold handset market in the current year, especially after Apple joins the pool.
The report says that Samsung will maintain its lead in the global foldable race for 2026 with a 32% market share. Meanwhile, the entire segment will grow by 21% YoY.
iPhone Ultra foldable will uplift the bar of competition in the folding device market as Apple is stepping into this battleground for the first time with its wide creation.
Despite Apple’s entry, Counterpoint said that Huawei will appear in the top three rankers on the 2026 best global foldable phone listing with its iconic fold models. It may slip from 30% market share to 24%, but will still hold a significant position.
“Huawei remains a strong player, particularly in China. Apple is projected to capture a 25% share in 2026, while Huawei is expected to hold 24%, followed by Motorola at 8% and HONOR at 3%.”
Apple may capture 25% in the folding handset market right after launching its first iPhone Fold. Motorola could land in the fourth spot with 8% of the market share, down from 12%. Honor may rank fifth this year with 3% market share.
The report adds that the global foldable market will continue to see growth this year due to strong demand for premium book-type folding devices. But Apple’s entry in this segment could push the strong competitors back into the game!
(Image Credits: Counterpoint)