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Chinese tech giants Xiaomi and Huawei launched new foldable smartphones ahead of Apple’s Wednesday event, where the company is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone. Counterpoint Research projects Apple could ship 6 million foldable iPhones in 2026, capturing 25% of the global foldable smartphone market, with potential growth to 40% by 2027. The move intensifies competition with Samsung, which currently dominates the foldable market.

Xiaomi and Huawei’s recent product launches underscore their strategic push to position themselves as leaders in the foldable smartphone segment ahead of Apple’s anticipated entry. Xiaomi introduced the Xiaomi 18 Fold, a passport-sized device similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8, while Huawei unveiled the Mate XT2, its third-generation trifold smartphone. These releases align with Apple’s Wednesday event, where the company is expected to debut its first foldable iPhone under new CEO John Ternus.

Counterpoint Research estimates Apple could ship 6 million foldable iPhones in 2026, securing a 25% share of the global foldable market. This share could rise to 40% by 2027, according to the firm. Despite the high cost of foldable devices, the market continues to grow, driven by strong consumer demand. Neil Shah, a partner at Counterpoint Research, noted that Apple’s potential foldable iPhone could attract users who have previously switched to Samsung or remain loyal to the Apple ecosystem.

The competition for foldable dominance is reshaping the smartphone industry. Samsung, which has led the foldable market, now faces pressure from Apple and Chinese firms like Xiaomi and Huawei. Analysts suggest Apple’s entry could disrupt existing dynamics, prompting rivals to accelerate innovation in flexible displays and materials. Xiaomi and Huawei’s aggressive strategies may also pressure Apple to refine its foldable strategy, potentially influencing global supply chains and R&D investments.

Apple’s potential entry into the foldable smartphone market could challenge Samsung’s dominance, with Counterpoint predicting a 25% market share for Apple in 2026. However, the success of Apple’s foldable iPhone remains uncertain, as it faces stiff competition from established players and emerging rivals.

Topics: Technology, Smartphones, Market Competition, Foldable Phones, Smartphone Innovation, Consumer Electronics, Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei

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Source: CNBC