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Foldable phones may experience a boom, but Samsung could lose dominance in a key area

Another report projects a boom in the foldable industry, but with a catch.

By Polina Kovalakova

Published: Aug 27, 2026, 3:25 AM

Samsung

Foldables

A person holds a folded Galaxy Z Fold 8 in their palm.

Foldables are about to become even more popular. | Image by PhoneArena

Foldable phones may not have taken over traditional devices, but they're about to become a lot more popular over the next few years. We've already heard Omdia's predictions about the projected boom in this segment, and now, another research company shares a similar outlook.

But this time, it's for one of the technology’s key components: foldable OLED panels.

Foldable OLED panels set for major growth

A significant boom is projected soon. | Image by UBI Reserach

In its 2026 Foldable Display Report, UBI Research suggests that OLED panels for foldable phones may hit 39.72 million units in 2030 as global users adopt the form factor more broadly.

The report explains that the category has been relatively stagnant over the past three years, with yearly global shipments around the low 20 million range. Starting this year, however, analysts predict a significant growth, which coincides with reports predicting a boom in foldable phone shipments as well.

But while Samsung is currently a leader in the foldable OLED panel shipments, UBI Research predicts its dominance will decline through 2030.

Samsung Display’s shipment share is expected to decline from 61.9% in 2026 to 41.0% in 2030, while BOE’s rises from 25.5% to 32.8% during the same period. The combined market share of the four Chinese companies will surpass 50% for the first time in 2027.

UBI Research analyst, August 2026

Do you plan on buying a new foldable soon?

Yes, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Z Fold 8 Ultra.

Yes, the Galaxy Z Flip 8.

Yes, a Huawei device.

Yes, an existing model from a different brand.

Yes, the iPhone Ultra.

I'm not sure yet.

No.

49 Votes

Samsung and Apple may have played a role

Although the foldable phones industry hasn't experienced truly groundbreaking innovation over the past few years, the push toward the new passport-style design and Apple's own efforts with the iPhone Ultra are expected to significantly drive up demand through 2030.

And let's give brands some credit where it's due. Foldable phone manufacturers have made meaningful progress in reducing weight and thickness while making devices more durable.

All of these improvements address key drawbacks that might have hindered the wider adoption of foldables, but apparently that's starting to change. As demand grows, foldable OLED panels would naturally grow on their own.

And in case you're looking for more related news:

Check out this review of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and find out why the new form factor is so great
You might want to read this article featuring more details about Omdia's report on the growth of foldables

Foldables won't be a niche much longer

While not everyone is accepting the foldable form factor today, the projected growth of the segment clearly shows consumer adoption is shifting. Apparently, once the design is just right, users are becoming more willing to upgrade, and panel manufacturers naturally prepare to meet the massive foldable OLED panel demand.

Still not a fan, but I'm starting to see the appeal

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is my favorite foldable yet. | Image by PhoneArena

I have to admit that foldables have never been my thing. But I see why they're becoming more popular. The hardware is evolving rapidly, making the devices significantly more durable while premium components ensure a proper flagship-grade experience.

If anything, the biggest shift is that foldables are no longer asking users to compromise quite as much as they once did.

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Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.

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