International Data Corporation expects worldwide shipments of foldable phones, including flip and fold form factors, to reach 21,4-million units in 2023 – an increase of more than 50% over the 14,2-million units shipped in 2022.
Foldable phones remain the one positive talking point in a market that declined more than 11% in 2022. This segment’s recent success and forecast growth highlight a healthy demand for this growing form factor. Although average selling prices are dropping slightly, foldables remain in the premium price segments in all regional markets.
“The foldable phone market finished slightly higher than previously forecast as consumers start to embrace the new form factor,” says Anthony Scarsella, research manager, Mobile Phones at IDC. “A 10% decline in ASP helped the market grow 75,5% in 2022 as foldable devices became more affordable in numerous markets.