Why Samsung, Google And Possibly Apple Are Investing In Folding Smartphones

CNBC September 6, 2025
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Apple is reportedly planning to release its first foldable iPhone in 2026, entering a market long dominated by Samsung and Huawei. Foldable phones have been on the rise in Asia, especially China and South Korea, but still account for less than 2% of global smartphone shipments. Advances in durability, slimmer designs, and lower prices are making the devices more appealing, while larger screens are being pitched as ideal for AI-powered multitasking. Analysts say Apple’s move could push foldables into the mainstream, reshaping the premium smartphone market. Watch the video to learn more. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:02 Chapter 1 - How we got here 04:46 Chapter 2 - iPhone Fold? 06:50 Chapter 3 - What’s next Produced and Edited by: Lisa Setyon Additional Editing and Narration: Erin Black Senior Director of Video: Jeniece Pettitt Animation by: Jason Reginato, Emily Park Additional Footage: Samsung, Apple, Getty Images Additional Production: Andrew Evers » Subscribe to CNBC: https://cnb.cx/SubscribeCNBC » Subscribe to CNBC TV: https://cnb.cx/SubscribeCNBCtelevision » Watch CNBC on the go with CNBC+: https://www.cnbc.com/WatchCNBCPlus About CNBC: From 'Wall Street' to 'Main Street' to award winning original documentaries and Reality TV series, CNBC has you covered. Experience special sneak peeks of your favorite shows, exclusive video and more. Want to stand out, grow your network, and get more job opportunities? Sign up for Smarter by CNBC Make It's new online course, How to Build a Standout Personal Brand: Online, In Person, and At Work. Sign up today: https://cnb.cx/4nUBgbA Connect with CNBC News Online Get the latest news: https://www.cnbc.com/ Follow CNBC on LinkedIn: https://cnb.cx/LinkedInCNBC Follow CNBC News on Instagram: https://cnb.cx/InstagramCNBC Follow CNBC News on Facebook: https://cnb.cx/LikeCNBC Follow CNBC on Threads: https://cnb.cx/threads Follow CNBC News on X: https://cnb.cx/FollowCNBC Follow CNBC on WhatsApp: https://cnb.cx/WhatsAppCNBC #cnbc Why Samsung, Google And Possibly Apple Are Investing In Folding Smartphones

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