Motorola aims to compete with Samsung in the US foldable phone market ahead of Apple's expected entry in 2026.

Even though Samsung is expected to remain the number one foldable vendor in the US both this year and the next, Motorola is rising fast in second place and Apple is preparing its own 2026 charge.

Motorola's 2025 foldable lineup appears to be making waves, with Counterpoint Research forecasting positive outcomes for the company in the US market. The new Razr series is expected to significantly improve Motorola's sales figures this year compared to 2024.

The report suggests Motorola may substantially reduce the gap between its sales and those of the leading foldable smartphone vendor in the US by year's end, though specific numbers are absent.

Samsung sold roughly twice as many foldable phones as its closest competitor in the US last year. Next year, the competition for the top spot could involve as many as three brands. It seems unlikely that Google will be the third contender.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold may arrive too late, and at too high a price, to significantly increase Google's market share. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold could face even greater challenges, particularly with the potential arrival of an iPhone Fold.

Current expectations indicate Samsung will likely maintain its lead in the US foldable market next year, followed closely by its main competitor, with Motorola in third place after a considerable decline.

The predicted foldable iPhone is expected to impact the market shares of Samsung, Motorola, and Google. However, its potential release in 2026 is not yet confirmed.

Should the iPhone Fold not appear next year, or if its release is limited, the projected 51 percent growth in total US foldable sales for 2026 could be inaccurate.

The market is expected to grow by 68 percent this year compared to 2024, even without Apple. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Razr (2025), Razr Plus (2025), and Razr Ultra (2025) are contributing to the increasing adoption of foldable devices.

Foldable devices are gaining popularity, driven by more diverse offerings from brands like Motorola and Samsung.

While an earlier entry from Apple would be welcome, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE and Samsung's upcoming tri-fold device suggest the market will continue to expand, regardless of the participants.

Apple's entry could boost foldable devices in terms of exposure, marketing, and build quality. Until then, the progress made in the foldable market should be appreciated.

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