Samsung is gearing up to unveil a thinner version of its flagship foldable smartphone, with the launch expected to take place next month. This move comes as the tech giant battles formidable Chinese rivals in the race to deliver the slimmest and most innovative devices to the market. Since Samsung first introduced foldable phones in 2019, the landscape has evolved significantly, with competitors like Honor and Oppo aggressively launching thinner and lighter models that challenge Samsung’s dominance.
The importance of slim foldable designs cannot be overstated. Thinness has emerged as a critical factor for consumers, as many are unwilling to compromise on the sleekness of their devices. According to Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, users expect the convenience of a folding phone without the drawbacks of added weight and bulk. “People aren't prepared to accept the compromise for a thicker and heavier phone to get the real estate that a folding phone can deliver,” Wood stated in a recent CNBC interview.
As Samsung prepares for its upcoming launch, it's essential to compare its offerings with those of its competitors. The Galaxy Z Fold6, Samsung's latest foldable released in 2024, measures 12.1 millimeters (0.48 inches) thick when folded and weighs 239 grams (8.43 ounces). In contrast, the Oppo Find N5, launched earlier this year, boasts a thickness of just 8.93 millimeters and weighs 229 grams. Furthermore, the Honor Magic V3, which debuted last year, is 9.2 millimeters thick and weighs 226 grams. This stark difference in dimensions underscores the need for Samsung to innovate in the foldable space.
In light of the competitive pressure, Samsung is determined to enhance its foldable lineup. The forthcoming Galaxy Z series is touted to be the thinnest, lightest, and most advanced foldable yet, with a promise of meticulous craftsmanship and durability. As stated in a preview blog post, Samsung aims to redefine the foldable experience for users, emphasizing quality and design.
The competition remains fierce, with Honor set to launch its latest folding phone, the Magic V5, in China on July 2. Ben Wood highlighted that if Samsung can match the thinness achieved by Honor, it would represent a significant design advancement. Despite these promising developments in foldable technology, the market has not gained the excitement that many anticipated. CCS Insight predicts that foldables will only comprise about 2% of the overall smartphone market this year.
While thinner devices could potentially stimulate interest in foldables, it is essential to note that consumer preferences must also evolve. Wood suggests that by delivering exceptionally thin foldables that resemble traditional monoblock phones, manufacturers could capture consumer attention and encourage a reconsideration of folding devices. However, he also cautions that many consumers still grapple with understanding the necessity of a folding phone.
As Samsung prepares to launch its new foldable smartphone, the tech world is watching closely. Will the new design be enough to reclaim its position at the forefront of the foldable market? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the competition is heating up.
