Galaxy Z Fold 7 Helps Push Foldable Market to All-Time High in Q3 2025

It looks like most consumers have lately started leaning toward foldable smartphones because of their practicality for both work and entertainment. Global foldable shipments reached their highest level ever in the third quarter of 2025. Samsung’s latest book-style foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (review), greatly contributed to this growth.

Foldable market gains momentum in Q3 2025 as consumers shift toward new form factor

According to Counterpoint Research, global foldable smartphone shipments increased 14% year over year in Q3 2025. It represents the highest quarterly volume to date for the category. On top of that, foldables now share 2.5% of all smartphone shipments. This shows that while they are still a niche product, adoption is steadily growing, mainly in the premium segment.

Book-type foldables played a key role in setting the new record. “In particular, the Z Fold 7’s slimmer frame, lighter hardware, improved hinge durability, and reduced crease visibility broadened its premium appeal and drove a stronger-than-expected uplift”, the research firm notes.

Meanwhile, Huawei’s Mate series continues to gain traction among consumers. HONOR and vivo also refreshed their foldable lineups to attract buyers. Clamshell-style foldables saw increased popularity as well, thanks to Samsung’s refreshed Flip devices and Motorola’s Razr 60 series.

Counterpoint Research says the market will enter a noticeable expansion phase in 2026. This is because brands are continuing to improve their foldables, making them thinner, lighter, and more durable. Moreover, Apple may step into the foldable market in the second half of 2026. As such, the foldable market will likely see increased demand for premium devices.

Just yesterday, Samsung announced its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, in its home country, South Korea. It will eventually become available to other markets, including the US, China, Taiwan, Singapore, and the UAE. So, next year, the Korean firm’s dual-hinge device could play a major role in driving the growth of the foldable smartphone market.