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Huawei has widened its lead in China’s fast-evolving foldable smartphone market, while competitors from Honor to Samsung carve out smaller but notable positions. New IDC figures show the segment is growing beyond early adopters into something much bigger.
Market share by the numbers: Huawei well ahead
IDC reports that Huawei captured a commanding 68.9% share of China’s foldable market in the first three quarters (January to September). Behind Huawei, Honor holds 11.2%, vivo 5%, Oppo 4.9% and Samsung 4.3%.
- Huawei: 68.9%
- Honor: 11.2%
- vivo: 5%
- Oppo: 4.9%
- Samsung: 4.3%
That Samsung appears in the top five is striking given its relatively small footprint in overall Chinese smartphone sales. The company’s Galaxy Z Fold7 seems to have real appeal among Chinese buyers, helping Samsung punch above its usual weight in this niche.
Shipments are rising — and IDC sees more growth ahead
The foldable category shipped 2.63 million units in Q3, an increase of 17.8% compared with Q3 2024. For the first three quarters combined, shipments totaled 7.62 million units, up 14.3% year over year. Based on this pace, IDC forecasts the market will reach nearly 10 million foldable shipments for the full year.
These numbers suggest foldables are moving out of the early-adopter phase. Improvements in thinness, weight and overall ergonomics in the latest generation of devices are making foldables more appealing for everyday use — not just as tech showpieces.
What this means for consumers and brands
For consumers, the trend signals more choice and faster iteration: expect lighter, thinner models and more competitive pricing as volumes rise. For brands, the takeaway is clear: there’s room to grow, but Huawei currently sets the pace in China. Competitors will need standout design, strong marketing and reliable supply to chip away at that lead.
So, are foldables finally mainstream? In China, the data says they are well on the way.
Source: gsmarena
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