Counterpoint Research forecasts 2026 foldable smartphone display panel shipments
of about 27.5 mln units, up ~24% YoY, and revenue of roughly $4.4 bln, up ~48%
YoY. Growth stems from volume recovery plus Apple entering the segment and a
shift to higher-end, large-fold devices. Apple’s first foldable iPhone, expected
in H2 2026, should lift panel procurement and boost demand for Samsung Display,
high-end large-fold panels and higher-value display technologies. Supply-side:
Q1 2026 already shows panel-maker share divergence; H2 will determine full-year
upside. BOE remains the market leader but has lost share; Samsung Display has
gained momentum and narrowed the gap.
