The market for flexible phone screens is getting ready for a massive boost. Research firm Omdia predicts that shipments of foldable smartphone displays will grow by 44 percent in 2026. This means suppliers will ship around 29 million of these screens. A big reason for this jump is the arrival of new book-style phones from major brands that feature wider inner screens. The demand for larger digital real estate is driving this shift.
Screen makers see big gains from upcoming foldable models
Brian Huh from Omdia notes that wide-screen foldable panels will make up 44 percent of all foldable display shipments in 2026. He expects that number to cross 60 percent by 2027 when more Chinese manufacturers join the race.
Right now, Samsung Display holds a very strong position. The company will exclusively supply the screens for the Galaxy Fold8 and the highly anticipated foldable iPhone. Thanks to these exclusive deals, the Korean tech giant should capture 66 percent of the total foldable display market next year. Chinese display makers might lose some ground as demand for local foldable brands slows down.
Don’t miss the best of The Mac Observer
Set us as a preferred source and our Apple reporting ranks higher in your Google Search results and Discover feed — one tap, no account changes.
Apple faces high demand for its first foldable device
This surge in screen production is a positive sign for Apple and its fans. The company recently launched the iPhone Duo, but buyers are already facing long wait times. If you try to buy one today, your delivery date might slip all the way into January 2027.
To handle the heavy interest, the company had to restrict the number of purchases a single person can make. A steady supply of fresh screens from its partners will be crucial to clear these backlogs and get the phones to waiting customers.
Discussion