When Samsung introduced a foldable smartphone in 2019 in the form of the original model Galaxy Fold, you really had to be a die-hard fan of the company to buy it. Regardless of the fact that it cost $2 or that it had some problems from the start. This was also one of the reasons why the device was not widely available, but it still served as a demonstration of a long-held concept. Samsung wanted to show the world what was possible and that it was about to revolutionize the smartphone industry.
The following year he came up with a model Galaxy From Flip. This foldable smartphone has already caught the attention of the whole world. It had familiar shapes based on the "clamshell" construction and felt like a device that could withstand everyday use. At $1, it was still quite expensive. A few months later, the company came up with a model Galaxy From Fold2. It still cost $2, but its improvements were already decent enough to start taking this segment seriously.
Because of this, millions of Samsung's most loyal customers around the world bought these devices, even though they had to take into account that these next-generation smartphone devices may not have durability over time. Even so, with their purchase, they supported the company in its mission to change the smartphone industry once again. They came last year Galaxy From Fold3 a Galaxy ZFold3.
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The 3rd generation was a clear success
Priced at $1 and $799, both of these devices have seen significant price cuts, making them more affordable, of course. Their durability has also been increased and foldable displays have become more reliable. It is also the world's first foldable smartphone that is water resistant. This time, it seemed that even those who were not fully on board with folding devices in the past were now willing to take a chance. Samsung ended up selling more units than it anticipated.
Galaxy ZFold3
Until now, the company has made a conscious decision to present its foldable smartphones as premium devices. After all, any device that costs more than $900 (approx. CZK 20) is considered premium and flagship worldwide. Here, customers understand that they are paying a high price not only for the form factor, but also for high-end specifications. They also appreciate that spending so much money on a foldable smartphone sets them apart. It's like being a member of an exclusive club.
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Pressure on price (and thus sales)
But there have been several rumors that suggest that Samsung might be looking into making a cheaper foldable smartphone. Allegedly, Samsung is preparing to release foldable smartphones with a price tag even below 2024 dollars by 800. These devices are likely to be marketed under the brand name Galaxy A, which is a series that is known for its ideal price/performance ratio, but they fall into the middle class.
Galaxy Z-Flip3
Customers who then make a purchase Galaxy Z Fold or Galaxy From the Flip, they will clearly lose the exclusivity of this form factor. It would be no different than buying Galaxy A53 vs Galaxy S22 Ultra. The form factor is the same, only the specifications are different. Most people are fine with whatever service they get Galaxy A53 will do, so don't feel the need to spend more for Galaxy S22 Ultra. It would be similar with jigsaw puzzles.
But Samsung will create a similar situation even if it really launches a folding model of the lower series. If someone is able to get the same experience for $449 as $999, and is willing to compromise on specs, they will still be in that "exclusive club" of jigsaw owners, they'll just get in at a much lower price.
The uniqueness of premium foldable smartphones has contributed to their surge in popularity and sales. Many customers have purchased these devices for this very reason. With a cheap solution, they might feel that Samsung is effectively cheapening the attractiveness of the entire foldable smartphone segment, if they are no longer only offered at the top/flagship.
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Do jigsaw puzzles have a future?
Ultimately, these customers may not choose to spend their money on the latest models Galaxy Z, if similar shapes and options are offered in the line Galaxy A (or other lower). Probably no one will study with the given owner if he has a higher or lower model, and if he has the current top chipset or the lightweight one. The foldable smartphone will fold the same whether it costs $1799 or $449.
Likely form of Z Fold4
Maybe that's why Samsung is working on more advanced folding, scrolling and sliding displays. As the company begins to expand its folding device portfolio into the mid-range segment, it can continue to offer truly unique products to justify its premium price tags. However, the success and downfall of the entire folding segment will probably be determined by the upcoming 4th generation. Unfortunately for it, it will come at an inauspicious time, in which the decline in smartphone sales is an infamous consequence of global crises.
Samsung series phones Galaxy You can buy z here, for example
Samsung I would never buy it rather huawei or xiami than this horror like samsung brand!!!
So it would at least need some arguments, rather than just shouting into the void like this. Others can say the same for the brands you named, for example.