The foldable phone market has come a long way since 2019, and market watchers expect foldable panel and phone shipments to increase in 2023 compared to a year ago. Foldable devices continue to increase in popularity, and we've already seen a few other brands at MWC 2023 preparing to release new foldable phones globally.
Seven different brands, including Samsung, have released 19 different foldable smartphones in 2022, notes Display Supply Chain. However, DSCC expects 10 different brands to release at least 37 foldable device models in 2023.
At least 16 of these foldable phones will have a clamshell phone factor, while roughly 20 of them will have a book-type design. So, despite the popularity of the Galaxy Z Flip series and the fact that it is the dominant foldable smartphone series, OEMs aim to capture more market share in the book-like foldable market, where Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series is leading.
Foldable phone shipments to reach almost 20 million in 2023
@DSCCRoss estimates that roughly 19 million foldable phones will be shipped by all OEMS combined this year. Foldable panel shipments will exceed 22 million, and roughly 20 million foldable phones will be produced in 2023.
According to a previous report, Samsung shipped nearly 12 million foldable phones in 2022, outperforming all other OEMs combined. The company aims to increase shipments to around 15 million this year.
Samsung Display demonstrated a variety of foldable device form factors at MWC 2023, but most of them will remain prototypes. However, Samsung's mobile division is expected to release the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 in Q3 2023.
The Z Fold 5 is said to feature a new waterdrop hinge that will allow the phone to fold perfectly flat and have less of a noticeable crease across the foldable display. Samsung started the final testing for the waterdrop hinge for durability and reliability.
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is rumored to feature a much larger cover display that may occupy the entire surface of the phone's upper half.
