A new report from South Korea suggests that Samsung is considering an entry-level model of its next-generation foldable phone. However, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard rumors that the South Korean brand is working on an affordable foldable phone. It was reported last year that the company might introduce the foldable Galaxy Z FE after this year’s Z Fold 6. The latest development is a compelling reason for Samsung to launch a cheaper foldable variant.
Samsung may release an entry-level version of the next Galaxy Z Fold
According to a report by Korean publication The Elec, Samsung is considering the possibility of developing a low-cost version of the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6. This doesn’t mean that the South Korean brand will give up on the regular Z Fold 6. a cheaper version with reduced features. The company is said to launch it in the second half of 2024, most likely at the company’s Unpacked event in August, along with the next-generation Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. So, this could indicate the possibility of three advanced devices appearing this year.
According to the report, the move to launch the cheaper Galaxy Z Fold is due to Samsung’s market share in the Chinese foldable smartphone segment. The South Korean brand, which is dominated by local players, ranks third with a share of 19 percent, after Huawei and Honor. The company has consistently enjoyed a double-digit market share in the country’s feature phone segment, which is also more than the tablet segment, which has less than a 1 percent share. The entry-level Galaxy Z Fold 6 could increase Samsung’s shipments or market share in China.
The report also states that Samsung preferred the Z Fold series over the Z Flip because the Z Flip released to date is much better known and sold. Fold has better potential in terms of form factor and performance.
Samsung currently dominates the global market for foldable smartphones. A cheaper version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 will give it an edge over the competition. However, this move may also have a cost that will negatively affect Samsung’s profitability. This is due to uncertain economic conditions and high demand for premium products.