Samsung is reportedly considering the release of an entry-level version of its popular Galaxy Z Fold smartphone. The move comes as the company aims to increase its presence in the Chinese foldable market and compete with Chinese manufacturers such as Xiaomi, HONOR, and OPPO, who offer cheaper foldable options. The entry-level Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to launch in the second half of 2024.
One of the main goals for Samsung is to make the Z Fold thinner, as it currently stands out as the thickest phone in comparison to its competitors. By reducing the thickness, Samsung hopes to position itself better in the market and attract more customers. The company recognizes that affordability is a key factor for consumers, especially in the Chinese market, and believes that a cheaper version of the Z Fold could help it gain an edge over its rivals.
However, there are concerns within Samsung about the potential impact of releasing an entry-level Z Fold 6. The uncertainty of the smartphone industry this year could lead to a higher demand for premium devices, which may overshadow the sales of the entry-level device. Samsung wants to avoid cannibalizing its own sales and is carefully considering the timing and strategy for the release.
Interestingly, Samsung is not considering an entry-level version of its Galaxy Z Flip series. The company believes that the clamshell foldable has already established itself in the market and has exceeded Z Fold shipments. Instead, Samsung is more focused on increasing the sales of its book-style foldable.
In a previous interview, Drew Blackard, Vice President of Mobile Product Marketing at Samsung, mentioned that the prices of Samsung’s foldables would eventually come down. However, at that time, the company’s focus was on refinement rather than affordability. If this recent report is true, it suggests that Samsung’s priorities may have shifted, indicating a greater emphasis on affordability and market competition.
Overall, Samsung’s consideration of an entry-level Galaxy Z Fold 6 reflects the company’s efforts to expand its presence in the Chinese foldable market and compete with its Chinese counterparts. By offering a cheaper option and making the device thinner, Samsung aims to attract more customers and position itself as a strong contender in the foldable smartphone market. However, careful planning and strategy will be crucial to avoid any negative impact on sales and ensure a successful launch of the entry-level device.
