NEW DELHI: Competition in India’s premium smartphone segment is set to intensify later this year as Apple prepares to enter the foldable smartphone market, challenging Samsung’s long-standing dominance in a category that, while still niche, is expected to continue growing despite an overall slowdown in handset demand.Samsung, currently commands about 89% of India’s foldable market, and this week expanded its portfolio with three new Galaxy Z-series models. Motorola remains a distant second with around 8% share after strengthening its Razr lineup.According to Counterpoint Research, India’s foldable smartphone shipments are projected to exceed 650,000 units in CY2026, up 8% year-on-year, even as the overall smartphone market is expected to shrink by 13-14%. By the end of the year, cumulative foldable shipments in India are expected to cross the 3-million mark.Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone globally in Sept. However, because of the late launch, Counterpoint estimates the device will account for less than 1% of India’s foldable smartphone shipments this year. Analysts expect its real impact to be felt from 2027 onward, when it could expand consumer interest in the category and intensify competition at the ultra-premium end. Also, as per Counterpoint Research, new launches and financing options could give the foldables segment a further push.Report suggests Apple’s arrival could become a long-term catalyst for the segment, particularly among premium buyers already invested in the company’s ecosystem. While foldables currently account for just 2-3% of India’s smartphone market by value because of their high average selling price of around $1,800, greater competition is expected to accelerate innovation in design, durability and software experiences.