by After perfecting slab phones over the past decade, companies are now looking at foldable smartphones as the next frontier to revolutionize the form factor. While foldable phones were considered a gimmick a few years ago, major brands have made huge strides in making this futuristic design a reality. Let’s take a deeper look at where foldable smartphones are headed.
Early Adopters and Challenges
When Royole unveiled the FlexPai in 2018, it became the world’s first commercially available foldable smartphone. However, early adopters faced many issues with durability, software bugs and a high price tag. Samsung’s Galaxy Fold from 2019 also suffered major problems that delayed its launch. These early devices highlighted the technical challenges in making foldable displays strong and resilient to withstand thousands of opens and closes over the phone’s lifetime. Mass production of flexible OLED screens that can fold without creasing was a major hurdle.
Improved Designs and Models in 2021
Fast forward to 2021, and foldable designs have come a long way. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 addressed many shortcomings of previous generations. They showed that foldable phones can be durable enough for everyday use, have water resistance, and offer a compelling form factor without compromising on key smartphone features. Other brands like Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi also unveiled concept foldables. Huawei brought their refined Mate X2 to markets outside the US. These devices proved that foldables can be just as powerful and versatile as traditional smartphones, if not more.
What Makes Them Special?
The inherent flexibility of Foldable Smartphones designs allows unique capabilities that traditional slab phones cannot match. Devices like the Z Flip fit comfortably in pockets when folded but provide a tablet-like experience for media consumption and multitasking when unfolded. The Z Fold has three distinct panels for multiple tasks at once. This versatility opens up use cases beyond what current devices offer. Foldables also enable completely new aspect ratios for apps and UI to take advantage of their transforming screens. Their portability and large unfolded canvases make them productivity powerhouses.
Software Advancements are Critical
While hardware innovation has come a long way, software is still catching up to support foldable form factors. Early devices faced issues with apps randomly crashing or not using available space optimally across screens. Google and developers are now prioritizing features like app continuity and multi-window capabilities to improve the foldable experience. Samsung also optimizes One UI for folding phones. As more brands enter the segment, a unified platform approach will ensure compatibility. Software will play a huge role in determining how well foldables can enhance workflow and daily digital lives.
Growth and Adoption Ahead
Analyst firms predict that sales of foldable smartphones will grow exponentially over the next five years as technology matures and prices become more affordable. According to DSCC, global foldable shipments are estimated to reach 32 million by 2025. Major brands are doubling down on foldables as the next mass market product category after slates. The success of Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3 shows that consumers are willing to pay premiums for cutting-edge designs if issues are resolved. Lower price points next year could see many first time foldable buyers upgrade. With improved durability, software and wider choices, foldables will see much broader adoption globally in the coming years.
Foldable smartphones are moving out of their niche status to become mainstream. Early adopter issues highlighted the challenges in developing this new form factor, but brands have shown strong progress. The versatility and productivity advantages of foldables over regular phones will appeal more as prices decline. With ongoing advancements addressing durability, software optimizations and a wider model portfolio, foldables are set to revolutionize the smartphone market much like smartphones replaced regular mobile phones over a decade ago. While challenges remain, 2022 looks set to be a coming of age year for the foldable category. The next phase of innovation in this evolving space will be exciting to watch.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Vaagisha Singh
Vaagisha brings over three years of expertise as a content editor in the market research domain. Originally a creative writer, she discovered her passion for editing, combining her flair for writing with a meticulous eye for detail. Her ability to craft and refine compelling content makes her an invaluable asset in delivering polished and engaging write-ups. LinkedIn
