The display is the first thing users see when turning on the phone. It also dictates the usability and design of the product. As different display technologies and design phenomenon battle for place in the phones, new aspect ratios emerge to the markets. 

Display resolution has long been a key measure of the quality of a smartphone. The premium-tier has driven the improvements in smartphone resolutions. Increasing media consumption and gaming usage increases the importance of higher resolutions.

• The increased consumption of all media and gaming has contributed to the need for bigger displays with better resolution.
• Foldables are the fastest growing aspect ratio segment.
• 4K resolution is still a niche technology.
• 2K resolution growth has stagnated when standalone VR headsets have become more common.
• Taller aspect ratios drive the development of new technologies such as notches, punch holes and behind display cameras and fingerprint sensors.

Clients of our Device Technologies service can learn more in the Insight : Smartphone Sales by Aspect Ratio and Resolution to 2026 or from reports Global Smartphone Display Aspect Ratio Forecasts to 2026 and Global Smartphone Display Resolution Forecasts by Price Tier to 2026