The iPhone Duo is projected to capture 24.8% of the foldable smartphone market in 2026, according to newly published forecasts, helping to counter a broader slump across the segment.
iPhone Duo expected to ship 5 million units in 2026
Following the announcement of the iPhone Duo, projections suggest Apple will secure 24.8% of the foldable smartphone segment by the end of the year. Apple is expected to ship 5 million units of the device in 2026, offsetting a segment-wide slowdown attributed to sharp increases in component costs.
Global foldable smartphone shipments are forecast to reach approximately 20.2 million units in 2026, up just 0.5% year on year. Excluding Apple, combined shipments from Android brands are expected to reach only around 15.2 million units, a decline of more than 20% year on year.
Samsung is still poised to lead the market with 7.1 million units shipped for the year and a 35.1% market share. Huawei is expected to match Apple’s 5 million units shipped and 24.8% share.
Hardware trade-offs behind the design
Several of Apple’s hardware choices for the iPhone Duo reflect the compromises required to reach its final design. Apple has omitted a dedicated periscope telephoto camera to minimise thickness and conserve internal space. Instead, the 48 MP main camera provides 2x optical-quality zoom, while a side-mounted Touch ID sensor replaces Face ID.
These decisions highlight the trade-offs that foldable smartphones continue to face across device thickness, camera capabilities, biometric components, and battery space.
Looking ahead at the foldable segment
Deeper integration of AI and multitasking interfaces with the larger foldable display could transform the device from a hardware differentiator into a new interface for AI applications. The forecasts point to the foldable form factor becoming a platform for software and AI experiences rather than solely a distinguishing piece of hardware.
Samsung remains the segment leader with a projected 35.1% market share and 7.1 million units shipped in 2026.
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Image: 9to5mac.com
