Core Insights - Samsung has launched the Galaxy Z Fold6, which is thinner and lighter than its predecessor, as part of its strategy to compete with Chinese rivals in the foldable smartphone market [1][4] - The importance of slim foldable designs has increased, as consumers are less willing to accept thicker and heavier devices for the benefits of a folding phone [2][6] - Chinese competitors like Honor and Oppo have successfully differentiated themselves with thinner and lighter foldable devices, prompting Samsung to enhance its offerings [3][5] Company Developments - Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold6 measures 12.1 millimeters thick and weighs 239 grams, while competitors like Oppo's Find N5 and Honor's Magic V3 are significantly thinner and lighter [3] - The upcoming launch of a new thinner version of Samsung's flagship foldable smartphone is expected to take place next month, indicating the company's commitment to improving its foldable lineup [1][4] - Honor is also set to launch its latest folding phone, the Magic V5, on July 2 in China, intensifying competition in the foldable market [4] Market Trends - The foldable smartphone market is projected to account for only 2% of the overall smartphone market this year, highlighting the challenges in consumer adoption [6] - Analysts suggest that thinner foldables may attract consumer interest and encourage a shift in preferences towards folding devices [6] - Despite advancements, there remains skepticism about the necessity of foldable devices among consumers, which could hinder market growth [7]

People look at iPhones at the Apple Fifth Avenue store in New York City, U.S., May 23, 2025.Apple has plans to make a folding iPhone starting next year, reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said on Wednesday.Kuo said that Apple's folding phone could have a display made by Samsung Display, which is planning to produce as many as 8 million foldable panels for the device next year. However, other components haven't been finalized, including the device's hinge, Kuo wrote. He expects it to have "premium pricing."Kuo is ...