The Evolution and Future of Foldable Phones
In the last four years, the tech industry has witnessed a surge in foldable phones. Several companies, including TECNO, OPPO, OnePlus, and Motorola, have released foldable devices, and it's expected that Honor and even Apple will join this trend in the future. The following discussion outlines why companies are embracing foldable phones and assesses whether the market is ready for this technology.
Why Companies Embrace Foldable Phones:
- Advances in foldable technology have made it cost-effective for manufacturers.
- The supply chain is well-prepared to create hinges and flexible displays, reducing manufacturing costs.
- Manufacturers are keen to jump into the premium smartphone market and establish their products in this segment.
- Foldable phones are positioned as 2-in-1 devices, offering both the compactness of a regular smartphone and the large screen of a tablet.
Realities of Foldable Phones:
- Despite efforts to make foldable phones creaseless, you'll still notice a crease when using them.
- Durability and build quality have improved, but foldable phones remain delicate and require careful use.
- Cameras and battery life in foldable phones might not match those in regular flagship smartphones.
- Software compatibility and user experience have improved over five generations of foldable devices.
Foldable Market Potential:
- The foldable market remains niche, estimated to be around 4-5% of the global smartphone market.
- While foldables are gaining traction, they won't replace regular smartphones. The majority of users will continue to opt for traditional phones.
- Companies are using foldable technology to position themselves in the premium segment rather than aiming for mass adoption.
Closing Thoughts:
Foldable phones offer a unique experience, but their market share will remain limited. For those interested in buying a foldable, Samsung is recommended due to its stable products. However, regular smartphones will continue to dominate the market.
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