Samsung is reportedly planning to launch a budget-friendly foldable smartphone in the coming year, with pricing expected to sit around 500 USD. This projection comes from industry observers and is echoed by tech outlets that cited TrendForce and near-term insiders. The core takeaway is a mid-range foldable device that could appeal to a broader audience seeking the convenience of a folding screen without a premium price tag. The sources framing this development describe a device positioned below Samsung’s flagship foldables, aiming to broaden access to foldable technology while maintaining the brand’s design language and feature expectations. (TrendForce insights via GSMArena)
What emerges from insider chatter is a foldable phone in the mid-range bracket, with suggested prices ranging roughly from 400 to 500 USD. This aligns with TrendForce reporting that Samsung is actively exploring a less expensive entry point into the foldable category. The emphasis is on delivering a dependable folding experience—likely with a clamshell mechanism similar to the Galaxy Z Flip family—without the higher-end hardware typically reserved for flagship models. Exact specifications and feature concessions remain under wraps, but the strategic aim is clear: convert more buyers into foldable owners by lowering the barrier to entry. (TrendForce and insider commentary)
Industry chatter hints that a clamshell design could be the standard form factor for the anticipated budget model, mirroring the compact, pocketable footprint of the Galaxy Z Flip series. Details about the specific components to be trimmed or shared across the lineup are still uncertain, yet the groundwork suggests a focus on practicality and everyday usefulness rather than cutting-edge performance alone. Observers note that Samsung may prioritize reliable battery life, dependable cameras, and a robust display experience to ensure value in this price tier, while keeping production costs in check. (Market analysis and insider notes)
In the same breath, analysts mention that Huawei might also be preparing a budget-ready folding phone, though concrete pricing and timing remain undisclosed. The potential entry of Huawei into the affordable folding segment would intensify competition and could push more aggressive pricing strategies across the sector. For now, however, no official word has been issued regarding release dates or the final price for Huawei’s model, making the market watchful for updates. (Industry coverage and market commentary)
As of now, a look at the current market landscape shows that one of the most accessible folding devices remains Tecno Phantom V Flip, which has appeared with price points around 600 USD in global markets, and somewhat higher in specific regions like Russia. When Samsung previously unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip5 in the United States, the sticker price hovered near 999 USD, roughly translating to about 92,000 rubles at the time. The price disparity highlights how regional markets and supply chains influence foldable adoption, underscoring the potential impact of a lower-cost model on regional demand. (Regional pricing context and historical price benchmarks)
Past reviews and hands-on impressions from outlets such as socialbites.ca have highlighted foldable devices like Oppo Find N3 as possessing flagship-like cameras and strong overall performance, which sets a benchmark for what buyers might expect from a budget foldable if Samsung follows a similar path of balancing cost and capability. While Oppo’s approach demonstrates the upper end of what mid-range foldables can offer, the anticipated Samsung entry would likely strive to deliver a balanced package—worthwhile features, a reliable user experience, and a price point that makes folding technology more mainstream. (Comparative tech coverage)