Five Actions Samsung Should Implement in Their Foldable Phones by 2025.
Samsung faces significant challenges with the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip ranges in 2025, but the solution is clear. Below are five actions the company should consider.
The year 2024 was complicated for Samsung, as its smartphone line has lost freshness just as it faces intensifying competition in every market segment. Models like the Google Pixel 8a and OnePlus 12R are challenging the Galaxy A, while the Galaxy S24 series is struggling in key markets. In the foldable phone segment, Samsung still has areas for improvement. Although the company was a pioneer in offering these devices to the general public and led many of the initial innovations, the competition has begun to surpass it.
The OnePlus Open has shown that viable alternatives exist to Samsung's multitasking experience, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 failed to prove otherwise last year. Meanwhile, Google introduced a remarkable foldable with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold; Honor demonstrated that a foldable can be thin but have a large battery, and Motorola has shown that it can outperform Samsung in the flip phone arena.
How can Samsung recover? Here are five actions the company may consider to improve its line of foldable phones in 2025.
1. Change the Fold's form factor
The first Galaxy Fold marked the beginning of an experiment: did customers prefer a taller, narrower foldable phone or one with a size and shape similar to a passport? The answer is closer to the latter, and after six generations, it seems necessary for Samsung to adjust the format of the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Although each generation has become thinner and lighter, the form factor has not changed. In comparison, devices like the OnePlus Open and Honor Magic V3 have front screens that resemble those of conventional smartphones. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold 6's screen is taller, similar to Sony smartphones.
2. Improve the cameras
Considering that the Galaxy S24 Ultra features an exceptional camera, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes equipped with the same system as the more economical Galaxy S24. This trend is common in the industry, but the Honor Magic V3 has shown that it's possible to have three competent cameras. Since the Galaxy Z Fold 4, Samsung has not made significant changes to the cameras in its foldable line. Many users expect better results in this area, especially when compared to rivals like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
3. Enhance battery life and charging speed
It's crucial for Samsung to reassess its approach to battery life and charging times. The company has been cautious since a notable setback with the Galaxy Note batteries. Comparing the Galaxy Z Fold 6 to direct competitors, it has a capacity of 4,400 mAh and supports 25W charging, while other models on the market, such as the Honor Magic V3, offer superior capacities and charging speeds.
4. Explore future foldable and rollable devices
For years, the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip have provided appealing experiences, but they are no longer the sole options on the market. Competition in the foldable segment is fierce, and Samsung must focus not only on improving its current devices but also on innovating toward the next generation. Concepts of tri-fold phones and other rollable devices have been seen, which could define the future of the market.
5. Innovate in hardware
While the Galaxy Z still offers a solid experience and the S Pen is unmatched, there is a need for Samsung to regain leadership in innovation in its foldable devices. The company has made significant changes in its software with One UI 7, but it's time for the hardware to evolve as well.
Samsung has the opportunity to redefine its strategy for foldable phones and stay at the forefront of innovation in an increasingly competitive market.
