Big screen foldables tipped to dominate the market in 2026, could outsell flip phones: Report

Foldable phones

The global foldable smartphone market could see a major shift in 2026, as a new report from Counterpoint Research suggests that larger foldable phones, or book-style foldables, are expected to account for 65% of total foldable smartphone shipments this year, up from 52% in 2025. These projections come ahead of Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable market this year. The report also mentions that the clamshell foldable segment’s market share is expected to decline gradually in the coming months.

Foldable smartphone market projections in 2026: Key details

As per the Counterpoint Research report, book-style foldable smartphones could account for roughly 65% of global foldable smartphone shipments in 2026, suggesting that consumers are leaning toward larger foldable models, compared to clamshell flip-style foldables. This means that we could see an increased demand for Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold 7 compared to its latest clamshell foldable, Galaxy Z Flip 7.

The research firm also mentions that Apple’s potential entry into the foldable space this year, with the rumoured iPhone Fold, will play a key role in this substantial growth. The Cupertino-based tech giant will likely debut the iPhone Fold in the second half of 2026. One reason why this interest towards book style foldables is increasing is that these large dual-screen devices are often perceived as productivity-focused alternatives to normal tablets and smartphones, instead of the small form factor and screen size offered by flip phones.