Counterpoint Research predicts global foldable phone shipments will surpass 100 million units by year-end, with the i Phone Ultra driving significant growth. Apple is expected to capture 25% of the market this year and potentially become the top player by next year. The Xiaomi 18 Fold, leaked last month, officially launched in China the day before Apple's event.

While folding smartphones currently account for only about 2% of the total market, Counterpoint forecasts 24% growth this year and 37% next. The report highlights new products from Samsung, Apple, Huawei, Motorola, Honor, Google, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi.

Counterpoint forecasts up to 6 million foldable i Phone shipments in 2026, placing Apple at 25% market share, behind Samsung at 38% and ahead of Huawei at 22%. A full year of Apple sales is expected to more than double shipments, pushing Apple's share to 40% and exceeding Samsung's current 38%.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold, sharing the book format of the i Phone Ultra, was leaked toward the end of last month before being shown at IFA and has now officially launched on the eve of Apple's Surprise and Shine event.