The foldable smartphone market is in decline. A drop which would be a great opportunity for Apple.
According to Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), shipments of foldable screens decreased during the third quarter of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. A historic first in this emerging sector.
And according to the research company's estimates, it's not just a slump in the market. The increase planned for 2024 is only 5% while, in fact, it was 40% per year between 2019 and 2023. The decrease would still be felt in 2024 with a fall of 4%.
Manufacturers of foldable screens for smartphones are withdrawing one by one. We can cite Infinix, Itel or Tecno. On the manufacturer side, Oppo and OnePlus could stop their foldable smartphone activity.
Flips down at Samsung
On Samsung's side, 10% fewer panels were shipped for the Galaxy Z Flip 6, compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 5, explains DSCC. A decline due to less adoption across the Atlantic, unlike Europe and Korea. This is a different story for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, but overall Samsung is selling fewer foldables today with a return to 2021 figures, adds the DSCC.
It is difficult to know the causes of this consumer pout. As a specialist in the sector, I would argue that the quality/price ratio plays a big role. We have rather fragile devices, less well equipped than their classic counterparts and above all more expensive. Paying more for less, with just the twist of folding, is a step that many don't take.
Apple time?
This market is still missing the model that will give it a dazzling presence. Of course, we think of Apple, which has a habit of perpetuating sectors. In 2023, one of its senior executives announced the arrival of a foldable iPhone in 2026. Patents have since been intercepted. Things seem to be on track.
