Global shipments of foldable smartphone displays are expected to surge in 2027 as demand for wider foldable phones grows, driven in part by Apple’s iPhone Duo and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8. The expected rise in demand for these devices points to a stronger year for wide foldables, following a forecast recovery in the wider foldable display market in 2026.
According to market research firm Omdia, global shipments of foldable smartphone displays are expected to increase by 44% in 2026, following a 12% decline last year. The firm expects manufacturers to ship approximately 29 million foldable displays this year.
However, these figures cover internal foldable displays rather than finished smartphones. As a result, display shipments may not directly match actual foldable phone sales because of the time needed to assemble and deliver finished devices.
Samsung Display Takes the Lead
Samsung Display, which supplies foldable screens for both the Galaxy Z Fold8 and iPhone Duo, is expected to capture 66% of the global foldable display market in 2026.
Meanwhile, competing display manufacturers, including BOE, China Star, Tianma, and Visionox, are expected to lose market share.
The forecast suggests that Samsung Display will strengthen its position as demand for wider foldable devices increases.
Competition in China
Omdia also reported that demand for foldable smartphones remains weak in China.
However, more Chinese smartphone manufacturers are considering entering the wide-foldable segment, which could increase competition in the coming years.
Huawei was among the first manufacturers to introduce the wider foldable design, but other companies have been slower to adopt the format.
LTPO Displays Dominate
The report also predicts that most foldable displays manufactured in 2026 will use low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) technology.
Although LTPO panels cost more than low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) alternatives, they offer more precise refresh rate control.
This allows manufacturers to adjust screen refresh rates more efficiently, making LTPO displays a preferred option for premium foldable smartphones.
Overall, Omdia’s forecast points to a recovery in foldable display shipments in 2026, with wider devices and Samsung Display expected to lead the growth.
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