Core Insights - Despite recent positive responses to new foldable devices, global foldable smartphone shipments are expected to remain flat at approximately 15.2 million units for the year, with 2026 anticipated to be a turning point for growth [1][4] - The foldable smartphone market is projected to see a significant year-on-year increase of 51% in shipments by 2026, driven by intensified competition and more affordable clamshell models [1] - The foldable smartphone segment remains a niche market, accounting for only 1.0-1.5% of global shipments, but it holds substantial strategic value and revenue potential for manufacturers [8][10] Market Dynamics - In the first half of 2025, global shipments of foldable smartphones are expected to remain stable at around 6.6 million units, with China showing a notable growth of 32.8%, primarily driven by Huawei's Mate and Pura X series [4] - The U.S. market, while growing at a more modest rate of 7%, is led by the Motorola Razr 2025 series [4] - The foldable smartphone market is characterized by a low single-digit percentage of the overall smartphone market, raising questions about its role in manufacturers' business strategies [4] Innovation and Strategy - Foldable smartphones serve as a testbed for hardware innovation and brand differentiation, allowing manufacturers to showcase their technological leadership and engineering capabilities [7] - The average selling price (ASP) of foldable devices is significantly higher than standard smartphones, with book-style foldables priced 289% higher and clamshell models 123% higher than traditional devices [13][16] - Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7, priced at approximately $1,899, generates revenue equivalent to about 15 entry-level Galaxy A06 4G devices, highlighting the high revenue potential of foldable devices [10] Consumer Perception and Adoption - A consumer study indicated that while 96% of respondents are aware of foldable smartphones, nearly 40% expressed disinterest, often due to budget constraints or unmet needs [11][13] - The adoption of foldable smartphones faces challenges related to user interaction and the need for behavioral changes, as consumers must rethink how they engage with their devices [13] - Manufacturers are exploring enterprise applications for foldable devices, emphasizing productivity advantages in professional settings, such as multitasking and document editing [14] Future Outlook - The foldable smartphone market is expected to evolve, with manufacturers needing to address barriers to adoption and enhance consumer experiences through innovative retail strategies [11][14] - The focus on high-end markets and brand differentiation will continue to drive the strategic importance of foldable devices, even as they remain a small segment of overall smartphone sales [15]

Core Insights - The foldable smartphone market is experiencing a wave of new releases in 2025, with manufacturers addressing concerns about device thickness and weight through advanced engineering technologies [1][4] - Despite increased competition, global shipments of foldable smartphones remained stable at around 6.6 million units in the first half of 2025, with a notable 32.8% year-on-year growth in the Chinese market [4] - The foldable smartphone segment is expected to see significant growth in 2026, with a projected 51% year-on-year increase in shipments, driven by intensified competition and more affordable flip models [4][12] Market Dynamics - The foldable smartphone category remains a niche market, accounting for only 1.0-1.5% of global shipments, but its revenue contribution and strategic value are disproportionately high [7][11] - Samsung's product strategy exemplifies this, as its Galaxy Z Fold7 generates revenue equivalent to approximately 15 entry-level Galaxy A06 4G devices, highlighting the high average selling price (ASP) of foldable devices [11] Consumer Perception and Adoption Challenges - A consumer study revealed that while 96% of respondents are aware of foldable smartphones, nearly 40% expressed disinterest, primarily due to budget constraints or unmet needs [12][14] - Key challenges for broader adoption include changing consumer behavior, high pricing, and the need for effective marketing strategies that emphasize user experience and trust [14][12] Strategic Implications for Manufacturers - Foldable smartphones are becoming a strategic lever for manufacturers to drive high-end branding, differentiation, and long-term profitability, despite their limited market scale [11][7] - Companies are exploring enterprise applications for foldable devices, positioning them as productivity tools rather than mere consumer novelties [14][12]

Core Viewpoint - Samsung's recent advertisement for the Galaxy Z Fold7 mocks the iPhone's inability to stand upright, highlighting the advantages of its foldable screen technology. Apple is expected to enter the foldable phone market in 2026, which may lead to a significant shift in the industry dynamics [1][17]. Market Growth and Trends - The foldable smartphone market is experiencing a resurgence, with IDC projecting global shipments to reach approximately 19.83 million units by 2025, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 6.0%. By 2029, shipments are expected to approach 27.29 million units, with a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% [3]. - In the first half of 2023, China's foldable smartphone shipments reached 4.98 million units, marking a year-on-year increase of 12.6% and capturing 48% of the global market share. It is anticipated that China's share will stabilize at over 40% in the next five years [5][7]. Competitive Landscape - The competition in the foldable smartphone market is intensifying, with major brands like Huawei and Samsung leading the charge. As of 2024, these two companies are projected to hold a combined 58% market share, with Samsung at 34% and Huawei at 24% [11][13]. - Huawei has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Chinese brand to surpass 10 million cumulative shipments of foldable phones since its first launch in 2019 [11]. Consumer Preferences and Market Dynamics - Consumer acceptance of foldable smartphones is increasing, with a notable preference for larger foldable models. The average transaction price for these devices remains above 7,000 yuan [7]. - The growth of the foldable market is still heavily influenced by manufacturers' product release schedules rather than consumer demand, indicating a need for strategic marketing and product positioning [8][9]. Future Outlook - Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market is expected to accelerate the adoption of this technology, potentially increasing market volume by millions of units. The company is likely to focus on high-end markets initially, with plans to expand globally by 2027-2028 [17][18]. - The shift towards "software-defined hardware" is expected to become a defining trend in the foldable smartphone industry, emphasizing the importance of software optimization alongside hardware advancements [18].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the competitive landscape of the foldable smartphone market in Europe, highlighting the entry of Chinese manufacturers like Honor and OnePlus, which are challenging Samsung's dominance as Apple prepares to enter the market [3][4][5]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Honor has officially launched the Magic V5 overseas in London, positioning foldable smartphones as a key strategic focus for its international expansion [3]. - According to Counterpoint, the European foldable smartphone market is expected to grow by 37% year-on-year in 2024, with increased competition from Chinese brands leading to a significant decline in Samsung's market share [3][9]. - Samsung's market share in the European book-style foldable smartphone segment has dropped from 98% to 73% by the end of 2023, and is projected to fall to 50% in 2024 due to the rise of competitors like Honor [9]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Honor's market share in the foldable smartphone category has increased from less than 10% in 2023 to 34% by the end of the year, indicating a strong competitive presence in Europe [9]. - The overall smartphone market in Europe is shifting towards a more open market, reducing reliance on carrier subsidies, which benefits Chinese manufacturers [9][10]. - The European market for high-end smartphones priced above $700 has seen a sales increase of over 70% in the past year, with a doubling of sales in the first half of this year [10]. Group 3: Supply Chain and Technology - The domestic supply chain for foldable smartphones in China has matured, covering key components such as screens, hinges, and materials, with companies like BOE and Lens Technology leading in their respective areas [12]. - China has become the largest market for foldable smartphones globally, with shipments expected to reach 4.98 million units in the first half of 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of 12.6% [12]. - Future foldable smartphones are anticipated to enhance human-computer interaction and improve work efficiency, with a focus on personalized multi-screen experiences [13].

Core Insights - Chinese smartphone manufacturers are intensifying competition against Samsung in the European foldable smartphone market, particularly with the launch of Honor's Magic V5 overseas version [2][4] - Counterpoint's data indicates a projected 37% year-on-year growth in the European foldable smartphone market in 2024, with Samsung's market share declining by 23% due to competition from Chinese brands like Honor and OnePlus [2][7] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Samsung's market share in the European book-style foldable smartphone segment has dropped from 98% to 73% by the end of 2023, and is expected to fall to 50% in 2024, with Honor's share increasing from under 10% to 34% [7][8] - The overall terminal scale in the European market is estimated to be between 130 million to 140 million units, with high-end smartphone sales (priced above $700) doubling in the first half of the year [8] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Apple is expected to enter the foldable smartphone market, with production of a foldable iPhone anticipated to begin in late Q3 or early Q4 of this year, potentially impacting market dynamics further [3][4] - The competition in the European market is expected to intensify as Samsung prepares to launch the Galaxy Z Fold7, aiming to regain its competitive edge [8] Group 3: Supply Chain and Technology - The domestic supply chain for foldable screens in China is maturing, with key players in various segments such as screens, hinges, and materials, contributing to a robust supply ecosystem [9] - IDC forecasts that China will surpass other markets to become the largest foldable smartphone market globally, with shipments expected to reach 4.98 million units in the first half of 2025, marking a 12.6% year-on-year growth [9][10] Group 4: Future Outlook - The next generation of foldable smartphones is anticipated to focus on high performance and enhanced human-computer interaction, with an emphasis on improving work efficiency and user experience [10]

Core Insights - The European foldable smartphone market is experiencing significant growth, with a year-on-year increase of 37% in 2024, despite currently holding only about 2% of the total smartphone sales in the region [1] - Samsung, which previously dominated the market with a 98% share in 2022, has seen its market share decline to 73% by the end of 2023 due to increased competition from brands like Honor, Google, and OnePlus [1] - Honor's Magic V2 and the upcoming Magic V3 have led to a remarkable 377% increase in sales for Honor, capturing a 34% market share in the book-style foldable segment, making it the fastest-growing player in the market [1] Company Developments - Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy Z Fold7 in July 2025, which is touted as the thinnest, lightest, and most powerful foldable smartphone to date, with a thickness of only 4.2mm and a weight of 215g [2] - Honor is expected to release the Magic V5 on August 28, 2024, which will feature a thickness of 4.1mm, potentially reclaiming the title of the thinnest foldable smartphone, along with enhancements in battery capacity and durability [2] Market Outlook - Apple is anticipated to enter the foldable smartphone market in 2026, which is expected to accelerate the adoption of foldable devices in high-end markets like the UK and Germany [2] - Counterpoint Research predicts that by 2028, annual sales of book-style foldable smartphones in Europe will approach 4 million units, representing over 2% of total smartphone sales, with a potential market share of nearly 10% in the high-end segment priced above $800 [2]

Core Insights - By 2028, book-style foldable smartphone sales are expected to approach 4 million units, accounting for over 2% of total smartphone sales, with a nearly 10% market share in the high-end segment in Europe [1][9] - 2024 is a pivotal year for the European foldable smartphone market, with a projected 37% year-on-year growth in sales, driven primarily by book-style foldable models, which are expected to see a 60% increase [1][9] - The competitive landscape is intensifying, with Samsung's market share dropping from 98% in 2022 to 73% by the end of 2023 due to new entrants like Honor, Google, and others [2][3] Market Dynamics - Honor's Magic V2 has captured 27% of the European book-style foldable smartphone market, and the upcoming Magic V3 is anticipated to further enhance its position [3][6] - Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy Z Fold7 in July 2025, which is its thinnest and lightest foldable smartphone to date, potentially regaining market competitiveness [6][8] - Google and other manufacturers are also ramping up their efforts in the European foldable smartphone market, indicating a new phase of industry growth [7][9] Future Projections - Apple is expected to enter the foldable smartphone market in 2026, which will further intensify competition and potentially accelerate market growth [9] - Despite a projected decline in foldable smartphone sales in the first half of 2025 due to a lack of technological innovation and macroeconomic factors, a rebound is anticipated in the latter half of the year [9][10]

Core Insights - 2024 is a pivotal year for the foldable smartphone market in Europe, with a projected 37% year-on-year growth in sales, despite currently representing only about 2% of total smartphone sales in the region [2] - The primary driver of this growth is the book-style foldable smartphones, which are expected to see a 60% increase in sales [2] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The competition in the foldable smartphone market is intensifying, with Samsung's market share dropping from 98% in 2022 to 73% by the end of 2023 due to new entrants like Honor, Google, and OnePlus [3] - Honor's Magic V2 has gained significant traction, accounting for 27% of book-style foldable smartphone sales in Europe, and the upcoming Magic V3 is expected to further enhance its market position [4] - Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7 is anticipated to be its most advanced foldable smartphone yet, addressing previous technological gaps [8] Group 2: Future Projections - By 2028, book-style foldable smartphone sales are expected to exceed 2% of total smartphone sales in Europe, capturing nearly 10% of the high-end smartphone market [4][11] - Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market in 2026 is expected to further accelerate competition and innovation, particularly in high-end segments [11] - The foldable smartphone market is projected to experience a rebound in sales in the second half of 2025, following a decline in the first half due to macroeconomic factors [11]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights Samsung's advancements in AI technology through its Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 devices, emphasizing the integration of AI features that enhance user experience and productivity in the smartphone market. Group 1: AI Technology and User Engagement - Samsung has evolved its Galaxy AI from a basic offering to a more robust platform, with 47% of surveyed users relying on AI features daily, and over 70% of Galaxy S25 users frequently utilizing Galaxy AI [1] - Among Galaxy S25 users, 50% use AI as a productivity tool, while 40% leverage it for creative purposes, indicating strong user engagement with AI functionalities [1] Group 2: Samsung One UI 8 Enhancements - The new Samsung One UI 8 is optimized for foldable devices, allowing users to switch application windows and adjust layouts for efficient multitasking on the Galaxy Z Fold7 [2] - Features like smart drag-and-drop and automatic content categorization enhance user interaction, making it easier to manage tasks and information [2][3] Group 3: Real-time Information and Performance Optimization - Instant briefing and real-time window features on the Galaxy Z Fold7 allow users to access important information without unfolding the device, improving convenience [3] - The system optimizes battery performance by freezing unused applications and managing power consumption during sleep, extending device longevity [3] Group 4: Multi-modal AI Capabilities - The integration of multi-modal AI in the Galaxy Z Fold7 enhances user experiences in searching, creating, and communicating, with Bixby providing comprehensive support for various tasks [5] - New AI features include problem-solving for K12 subjects and continuous translation capabilities, making the device versatile for educational and practical uses [7] Group 5: Creative Tools and Meeting Assistance - The Galaxy Z Fold7 offers advanced content creation tools, such as generative editing and audio noise reduction, which assist users in producing high-quality media [7] - The newly introduced teleprompter function aids users in delivering presentations smoothly, enhancing the device's utility for professional settings [9] Group 6: Galaxy Watch8 Series - The Galaxy Watch8 series complements the Galaxy ecosystem with advanced health tracking features and a comfortable design, promoting a healthier lifestyle for users [10] - The integration of Samsung BioActive sensors provides real-time health insights, encouraging users to adopt better health habits [10]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights Samsung's focus on integrating advanced AI technology into its new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 devices, aiming to enhance user experience and redefine smart interactions in the mobile sector [1][3]. Group 1: AI Integration and User Experience - Samsung's "AI for All" vision aims to embed AI experiences into daily life, with 47% of surveyed users relying heavily on AI services [3]. - Over 70% of Galaxy S25 series users frequently utilize Galaxy AI, with 50% using it as a productivity tool and 40% for creative purposes [3]. - The new Samsung One UI 8 system enhances Galaxy AI functionality, targeting over 400 million devices by 2025 [3]. Group 2: Device Features and Enhancements - Samsung One UI 8 offers tailored optimizations for the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, enhancing multitasking and user personalization [4][5]. - The upgraded smart drag-and-drop feature allows users to share content across applications and organize favorites efficiently [7]. - Instant briefing and real-time window features provide users with relevant information without needing to open applications, improving information retrieval efficiency [8]. Group 3: AI Capabilities and Tools - Galaxy AI serves as a versatile assistant, capable of processing multiple file formats and providing summaries, translations, and creative suggestions [9][12]. - The "Circle and Search" feature has been upgraded to include AI problem-solving for K12 subjects and continuous translation capabilities [11]. - Content creation tools have been enhanced, allowing users to edit photos, generate AI avatars, and clean audio tracks effectively [12]. Group 4: Wearable Technology - The Galaxy Watch8 series introduces advanced sensor technology for health monitoring and a new teleprompter feature for presentations [13][14]. - The devices are designed for comfort and precision, offering real-time health insights and encouraging healthier habits [16]. Group 5: Sales Promotions and Consumer Engagement - Samsung is currently offering promotional deals for the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, including storage upgrades and interest-free financing options [17].