Rumors are circulating that the foldable phone market, once touted as the next breakthrough in the smartphone industry, is facing unexpected challenges. According to reliable tech leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS), at least three major brands have either suspended or significantly delayed their foldable phone projects.
DCS states that one of the top five global smartphone manufacturers has “killed off” its foldable phone project. Additionally, two other companies have also suspended their clamshell foldable phone projects.
The reasons for the suspension of these projects have not been disclosed, and DCS has not revealed the specific brand names.
Currently, the foldable phone market is primarily dominated by Android manufacturers, with Samsung being a prime example. They hold the largest market share and are said to be developing the next generation of the Z-series foldable phones, including a triple-foldable model. Huawei is also rumored to be developing a triple-foldable phone. OPPO and vivo are also emerging players in this field.
However, a recent report suggests that both OPPO and vivo have decided to exit the foldable phone market. The reason is believed to be a significant decline in their market share in this segment last year.
If these rumors are true, OnePlus will also be affected, as they heavily rely on OPPO and have only recently launched their own foldable device.
In another development, Apple’s foldable iPhone project is also said to be facing challenges due to the fragility of the screen.
Although foldable phones offer unique designs and capabilities, they are still relatively expensive and delicate, and the software optimization is not yet fully realized. Only time will tell whether these rumors will turn into reality and how they will impact the foldable phone market.
