Samsung Challenges Apple’s Dominance with Foldable Phones, Gains 8% US Market Share
Samsung has made significant gains in the US smartphone market, with its market share rising from 23% to 31% in Q2 2025, while Apple’s share declined from 56% to 49%, according to new data from Canalys. This marks the first time in over a decade that Apple’s dominance in its home market appears vulnerable.
The surge is largely attributed to Samsung’s innovative foldable phones, particularly the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, launched in July 2025. The Z Fold 7 can transform into a tablet with its 8-inch internal display, while the Z Flip resembles a modern flip phone. These devices have gained significant social media traction, especially after viral durability tests showed the Z Fold 7 being bent over 200,000 times without breaking.
Samsung’s stock has risen about 35% in 2025, while Apple shares have declined 7.5%. Analysts expect Apple to respond with its own foldable iPhone, potentially launching in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 lineup, with an expected starting price of $1,999 to compete with Samsung’s premium foldable models.