Foldable displays are heading for a strong recovery in 2026, as wider foldable designs gain momentum with consumers and manufacturers alike. After a softer period for the category, new research from Omdia points to a sharp rise in panel shipments, helped by fresh devices from Samsung and Apple and a growing preference for LTPO panels that can deliver smoother, more power-efficient refresh behavior.
Omdia expects shipments of foldable inner displays to climb by 44% this year, reversing the 12% decline recorded last year. The firm forecasts about 29 million units in 2026. Because the figure refers to display panels rather than finished handsets, it may not perfectly match final foldable phone deliveries, but it strongly signals improving momentum for the category.
Wide foldables are emerging as the biggest story within the category. Omdia projects that panels for wider foldable devices will account for 44% of all foldable display shipments this year, putting the newer shape close to parity with more established book-style foldables and compact flip models.
The shift is being powered by high-profile launches such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and the Apple iPhone Duo. Both devices use panels made by Samsung Display, giving the supplier a dominant position in the market. Omdia estimates Samsung Display will hold around 66% of foldable display shipments in 2026, while rivals including BOE, China Star, Tianma and Visionox are expected to see their shares decline.
China remains a more cautious market for foldables overall, according to the analysts. Even so, more Chinese brands are showing interest in wide foldable devices, suggesting competition in that segment could intensify. Huawei helped introduce the wider format, but other manufacturers appear to be waiting for clearer proof of demand before scaling up.
Most foldable panels shipped this year are expected to use LTPO technology. Although costlier than LTPS alternatives, LTPO offers finer refresh-rate control, making it a natural fit for premium foldables where battery efficiency and smooth visuals are key selling points.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 offers
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Source: Omdia
