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Global shipments of foldable smartphone displays are expected to increase significantly in 2026, with a growing interest in wide foldable devices. Market research firm Omdia forecasts a 44% rise in foldable display shipments this year, following a 12% decline in 2025.
According to the forecast, manufacturers will ship around 29 million foldable displays in 2026. However, this figure refers specifically to the inner screens used in foldable smartphones, not the final devices. Display shipments and smartphone sales may differ because manufacturers usually ship components before completing and releasing their products.
Despite this difference, the forecast suggests that 2026 could be a strong year for the foldable smartphone market.
Foldable Display Shipments to Increase 44% in 2026 as Wide Foldables Gain Popularity
One of the most notable findings in Omdia’s report is the growing demand for wide foldable displays. These displays are expected to account for 44% of total foldable display shipments in 2026, putting them close to half of the market.
The foldable smartphone market currently includes three main designs: wide foldables, book-style devices with larger and squarer inner screens, and compact flip-style phones.
The increasing popularity of wide foldables is expected to reshape competition among smartphone manufacturers. Devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and Apple’s reported iPhone Duo are among the products driving interest in this design.
As more companies explore wider foldable phones, manufacturers may place greater emphasis on screen proportions and usability to attract consumers.
Samsung Display Expected to Lead the Market
Samsung Display is expected to benefit considerably from the growing demand for foldable screens. According to Omdia, the company could capture 66% of the foldable display market in 2026.
Samsung Display manufactures panels for both the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Apple’s iPhone Duo, putting it in a strong position as demand for wide foldables increases.
Meanwhile, competing display manufacturers, including BOE, China Star, Tianma and Visionox, are expected to see their market shares decline.
The forecast highlights Samsung Display’s strong position in the foldable screen industry, particularly as more smartphone brands consider adopting wider foldable designs.
Chinese Manufacturers May Increase Competition
Although demand for foldable smartphones remains weak in China, Omdia expects competition to increase as more Chinese manufacturers enter the wide foldable segment.
Huawei was among the early companies to introduce this form factor. However, other manufacturers appear to be taking a more serious interest in the design as its market potential becomes clearer.
Greater participation from Chinese brands could lead to more product choices and increased competition in the coming years.
LTPO Displays Expected to Dominate
Another important trend is the expected dominance of LTPO display technology in foldable smartphones. Omdia forecasts that most foldable displays manufactured in 2026 will use LTPO rather than LTPS technology.
LTPO displays offer more precise refresh-rate control, allowing screens to adjust their refresh rates according to the content being displayed. This can help reduce power consumption while maintaining a smooth viewing experience.
Although LTPO panels generally cost more than LTPS displays, their benefits make them an attractive option for premium foldable smartphones.
Since foldable devices already occupy the higher end of the smartphone market. Manufacturers are likely to continue using advanced display technologies to improve performance and user experience.
Foldable Smartphone Market Outlook
Omdia’s forecast points to renewed growth in the foldable display market during 2026. Rising demand for wide foldables, Samsung Display’s strong position and the wider adoption of LTPO technology are expected to shape the industry.
However, display shipment figures do not directly represent the number of foldable smartphones sold. Actual device sales will depend on product availability, pricing and consumer demand.
If the forecast proves accurate, 2026 could mark an important step forward for foldable smartphones, with wider designs becoming a more significant part of the market.
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