Shortly after reports surfaced online about Samsung planning a foldable smartphone for the next year with a price tag potentially around $500, a Samsung spokesperson addressed the claims. Korea JoongAng Daily (KJAD) challenged that report, noting no confirmation from the company and urging caution about any budget foldable plans.
According to an unnamed Samsung representative, the company is not pursuing budget foldables because the costs involved are too high to justify a low-price model that still meets brand and reliability standards.
The explanation centers on the premium components that characterize Galaxy Z devices, including the hinge mechanism and the folding display. These parts contribute significantly to the overall bill of materials, often equaling or exceeding the price of a more affordable device. With such costs baked into the hardware design, Samsung faces a challenge in delivering a foldable phone at a substantially lower price point while maintaining durability and performance expected by users in the United States and Canada.
Industry chatter suggests Samsung is still evaluating its foldable lineup and could consider variants at a lower price in the future. There is speculation about a budget Galaxy Z Flip FE planned for 2024, with a target price in the $400 to $500 range and pared-back specifications to align with more affordable market expectations for midrange buyers in both Canada and the United States.
Other major brands are watching the same market dynamics. Some reports indicate that Huawei is exploring budget foldable options as well, signaling a broader interest in bringing foldables to a wider audience. In markets where consumer demand for premium devices is strong, there is ongoing conversation about balancing innovative folding technology with more accessible pricing to broaden appeal.
Previously in Switzerland, a smartphone with a monthly subscription model was demonstrated, highlighting a growing trend toward flexible financing for high-end devices. This shift reflects how customers in North America increasingly consider subscription or financing options when evaluating high-tech purchases, including foldables that promise novel form factors and new usage scenarios, from compact daily carry to dynamic multitasking screens. (citation: Korea JoongAng Daily)