Global Foldable Smartphone Market - 2024-2031

Global Foldable Smartphone Market - 2024-2031

Global Foldable Smartphone Market reached US$ 28.69 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 79.56 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 13.60% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The market is anticipated to undergo significant expansion over the forecast period because to the rapidly increasing demand for cutting-edge consumer electronics and the heightened acceptance of smartphones in the entertainment and gaming sectors. The increasing demand for phablets has notably impacted the market for next-generation smartphones in many nations.

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) projects that smartphone customers in North America will total 328 million by 2025. Furthermore, by 2025, the region may experience an escalation in mobile subscriber penetration rates (86%) and Internet usage (80%). GSMA estimates that by 2025, Europe will have the greatest internet penetration rate at 82% and smartphone usage at 88%. This increase will propel the analyzed market.

Moreover, 5G technology is expected to be a pivotal factor enabling original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to enhance their market presence, hence fostering long-term growth. A report by Ericsson forecasts that global 5G subscribers will attain 3.5 billion by 2026. The global demand for technology and infrastructure is anticipated to rise. The projected advancements are expected to substantially drive future market growth for foldable smartphones.

Dynamics

Advancements in Flexible OLED Technology

Earlier smartphone designs were restricted by the physical constraints of inflexible glass panels; however, progress in materials science has enabled the production of displays that can flex and fold without sustaining damage. This adaptable feature facilitates improved multimedia experiences and multitasking abilities in a highly portable format. Flexible OLED panels have significantly propelled innovation because to their thin and lightweight characteristics, rendering them ideal for folding designs. Technological advancements can lower costs, thereby prompting more manufacturers to launch competing foldable versions across various price tiers.

In August 2022, Xiaomi, a Chinese multinational technology corporation specializing in consumer electronics and associated software, home appliances, vehicles and household hardware, introduced the MIX Fold 2, which showcases a foldable smartphone design. The smartphone utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, likewise employed in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 and Z Flip4. The MIX Fold 2 features a distinctive design, measuring 5.4 mm in thickness when unfolded and 11.2 mm when folded. Xiaomi designed the phone's micro waterdrop hinge, demonstrating the company's novel approach to foldable technology.

Premium Trends, 5G Advancements and Strategic Marketing

The market for foldable smartphones is experiencing growth due to increasing demand in premium and high-end handsets. Consumers, especially in advanced economies like North America and Asia Pacific, are progressively inclined to spend on innovative technologies. Foldable smartphones, embodying the newest innovations in mobile technology, are perceived as luxury commodities that provide both prestige and use. The global expansion of 5G networks bolsters this desire, as foldable smartphones are generally outfitted with 5G capabilities, allowing users to capitalize on accelerated speeds and improved connectivity for streaming, gaming and professional activities.

Strategic marketing and product introductions have significantly contributed to the increasing demand for foldable cell phones. Prominent brands are vigorously marketing these gadgets, frequently through partnerships with influencers and high-profile campaigns. Regular product updates, trade-in offers and collaborations with cell carriers are enhancing the accessibility of foldable phones for a broader user base.

High Cost

The elevated production expenses of foldable smartphones may impede the expansion of the worldwide foldable smartphone industry. Foldable smartphones include flexible OLED screens that utilize sophisticated technology and materials, rendering their manufacturing a complex and costly endeavor in contrast to conventional smartphones.

The production of flexible OLED panels necessitates very precise gear and fabrication facilities capable of producing ultra-thin panels devoid of flaws, resulting in a substantial increase in capital investment. In September 2024, Huawei and Apple's latest smartphones were released in China, featuring Huawei's highly anticipated US$ 2,800 tri-foldable phone, priced at more than double that of the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Segment Analysis

The global foldable smartphone market is segmented based on functionality, distribution channel and region.

Gorwth of E-commerce

Leading foldable phone brands actively prioritize internet debuts to create excitement among technology aficionados. The prevalence of online sales channels enhances awareness and reviews for foldable smartphones, thereby fostering confidence among mainstream consumers and prompting them to contemplate the adoption of these innovative gadgets in the future.

E-commerce offers users a simple platform to compare foldable phone models, characteristics, reviews and price points comprehensively. This degree of research proficiency and transparency caters to the sophistication of early users of foldable phones. It enables marketers to advertise pre-order promotions and exclusive launches that encourage purchases via their own websites or affiliate online platforms. Technological improvements will result in an increased variety of possibilities in physical retail establishments.

Geographical Penetration

Rising Competitiveness and Smartphone Users in Asia-Pacific

The swift improvements profoundly impact the foldable smartphone industry in technology by established entities in Asia-Pacific. The global market comprises a limited number of prominent enterprises from Asia-Pacific and has experienced heightened competitiveness as producers strive to secure early advantages in goods commercialization over their rivals. It has shown consistent expansion due to significant technological resources, segment expenses and substantial initial investments necessary for product development.

The leading market participants are expected to introduce innovative products during the forecast period to transform the smartphone sector in emerging economies. The developing countries, including India, have experienced a reduction in data expenses since 2013. This has augmented the quantity of smartphone users. The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASSOCHAM) projects that the number of smartphone users in the country increased from approximately 468 million in 2017 to 859 million in 2022, reflecting a CAGR of 12.9%. The increase in smartphone usage will provide a chance for foldable smartphone manufacturers to innovate and gain market share.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Motorola Mobility LLC, Oppo Mobile Telecommunications Corp., Ltd., Xiaomi Corporation, Honor Device Co., Ltd., OnePlus Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Microsoft Corporation, Google LLC and Royale Corporation.

Sustainability Analysis

The foldable smartphone market has witnessed significant expansion since the launch of the first foldable handset. With the increasing popularity of these gadgets, the industry has significant difficulties related to sustainability. Elevated repair prices, expenses for component replacement and apprehensions regarding the disposal of intricate materials raise inquiries about the long-term environmental ramifications of foldable cellphones. The difficulties underscore the necessity for efficient solutions to reduce waste and advance the circular economy.

In reaction to these issues, the European Union has implemented substantial measures to enhance sustainability in the technology sector, notably via its right-to-repair legislation. This legislation, framed by the European Green Deal, seeks to prolong product lifespan and minimize waste by requiring manufacturers to provide repairability, offer access to maintenance information and enhance gadget durability.

The proposed regulations mandate that foldable cellphones and other electronic gadgets remain repairable for a duration of 10 years, in accordance with overarching objectives of sustainable consumption and environmental stewardship. These actions are essential for promoting a more sustainable future in the foldable smartphone market.

AI Impact Analysis

Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially machine learning (ML), is crucial in influencing the foldable smartphone market by enhancing essential aspects like battery longevity. Samsung's foldable smartphones, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6, employ AI to assess user behavior and anticipate high-power consumption activities, including gaming or streaming. It enables devices to dynamically alter power distribution, assuring the preservation of important functionality while conserving energy in non-essential areas.

Through the use of AI-driven battery optimizations, Samsung is improving user experience and prolonging battery life, thereby solving a significant issue in the foldable smartphone sector. Samsung, a pioneer in the foldable smartphone market since 2019, maintains its industry leadership by integrating powerful AI functionalities into its recent products.

Samsung's AI-driven advances, coupled with advancements in foldable technology, are essential for sustaining its competitive advantage against emerging rivals. Moreover, firms like as Huawei and Xiaomi are integrating AI into their foldable smartphones, offering capabilities like AI-enhanced photography and user interface enhancements, hence intensifying market competitiveness.

By Functionality
• Flip
• Fold

By Distribution Channel
• Online
• Offline

By Region
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Rest of Europe
• South America
Brazil
Argentina
Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
China
India
Japan
Australia
Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments
• In August 2023, Samsung launched its newest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, with the Z Fold 5 commencing at Rs 1,54,999 with different RAM and storage options. The launch of an economical Galaxy Z Fold 6 seeks to bolster Samsung's market position in the foldable sector, especially as rivalry from Chinese companies such as Xiaomi, Honor and Huawei escalates.
• In November 2022, the Chinese telecommunications company Huawei launched the Pocket S, an affordable flip-style foldable smartphone, in China. The phone is priced lower than previous foldable models, ranging from CNY 5,988 to CNY 7,488 (US$ 819 to US$ 1,025). The device features a 6.9-inch OLED display; its dimensions are 87.3 x 75.5 x 15.2 mm when folded and 170 x 75.5 x 7.2 mm when unfolded.

Why Purchase the Report?
• To visualize the global foldable smartphone market segmentation based on functionality, distribution channel and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of the foldable smartphone market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global foldable smartphone market report would provide approximately 54 tables, 40 figures and 201 pages.

Target Audience 2024
• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies