Global Four Smartphone Giants Jointly Bet on Foldable Market

From September 7 to September 10, within just 72 hours, Huawei, Xiaomi (01810-HK), and Apple (AAPL-US) successively launched new foldable phones. Alongside Samsung, which has long been deeply involved in this sector, the world's four major smartphone giants have now converged on the foldable phone market.

As the smartphone market faces slowing growth and severe product homogenization, foldable phones have become a new focal point collectively pursued by the industry. Their popularity continues to rise, with sales increasing against the odds. This 'worth it' confidence stems from technological iteration, enhanced user experience, and industrial transformation.

The core appeal of foldable phones lies in breaking the traditional 'same-looking' limitation of slab smartphones, achieving a balance between portability and large-screen experience.

Thanks to continuously refined hinge technology and new display materials such as ultra-thin glass, today's foldable phones have improved upon the initial pain points of visible creases, bulky bodies, and poor durability. Smoothness of opening and closing, as well as device slimness and lightness, have significantly increased.

Multi-form factor modes adapt to diverse scenarios such as office work, entertainment, and daily commuting. Coupled with continuously improving software ecosystems, multitasking and large-screen interactions have become smoother, achieving a fusion of smartphone and tablet functionality. This precisely meets the needs of high-end users.

China's Economic Daily points out that foldable phones are a key battleground for Chinese domestic smartphone brands to break through in the high-end market. For a long time, the high-end smartphone market has been dominated by overseas brands. In recent years, domestic manufacturers have targeted the foldable phone segment, accumulating a large number of patents in areas such as foldable screen hinges, displays, and multi-form interactions through continuous R&D and innovation. This has enabled them to transition from catching up to leading, breaking the industry's stalemate with differentiated advantages.

Currently, foldable phones still face shortcomings such as high prices and incomplete ecosystems. However, as supply chains mature and costs continue to decline, foldable phone prices are expected to gradually become more affordable. It is foreseeable that continuously evolving foldable phones will lead innovation in the smartphone industry and become a significant growth engine in the smartphone market.