In 2026, the worldwide shipments for global smartphones are anticipated to increase by 20%, with the first foldable iPhone by Apple releasing in September this year. The whole market is competing with the shortage of chips and the increased price of memory.
Samsung is predicted to keep its lead in the foldable smartphone category, with Huawei and Apple to aid in driving growth. Q4 of this year is talked about as the most important sales period for 2026. Apple moving to the foldable smartphone category could give the category a lift.
Apple will be releasing the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone 18 Pro Max models alongside the first foldable iPhone in September this year, with suppliers being told in advance to start production for about 10 million units for 2026. Preorders for the foldable iPhone are expected to be available in Q4 of this year.
