Samsung are said to be in the process of developing two more foldable phones. The process is somewhat of a “see what sticks” strategy as they look to dominate the foldable smartphone market.
According to Bloomberg, one of the models is similar to the Huawei Mate X. The Mate X is the world’s first 5G foldable AI phone and may just be the start of a future of foldable phones. The device keeps the entirety of its flexible OLED panel on the device’s exterior, and unfolds in a fashion that is similar to that a newspaper. The Galaxy Fold on the other hand, sports a bi-fold design that operates more like a book.
The South Korean tech giant is refining another vertically folding model ahead of its mass unveiling. The device is set for release later this year, though that may extend to early 2020. The device features an exterior similar to the Galaxy Fold, however, whether such a display sticks, depends on customer response.
Currently, the device remains in the prototyping phase and rumours suggest it’s thinner than the Fold, owing to the omission of an exterior screen. Though, both new devices may be fitted with ultrasonic fingerprint sensors – a technology that debuted with the Galaxy S10.
Issues surrounding foldable technology
While the Galaxy Fold may be an exciting concept for smartphone fanatics around the world, a screen creasing issue is causing frustrations for Samsung. They are reportedly investigating methods to avoid the issue that appears on a protective film covering the touch sensor, once the device has been folded around 10,000 times. Free screen replacements is one solution that is being considered, however, the final sales strategy has not yet been decided.
Despite such issues, fans remain excited for foldable smartphones with bending screens; though whether this hype will equate to sales remains unknown.
Bryan Ma, vice president of device research at IDC said: “No one knows what the ideal design is yet. The time is ripe for experimentation. Many of these designs won’t be successful, but industry players will learn valuable lessons along the way.”
Apple’s take
Samsung are certainly one tech giant that are willing to risk research and development as they look to dominate the folding smartphone market and edge ahead of Apple. Admittedly, it’s a move that pay dividends for Samsung, but it may also leave them with an abundance of unsold devices.
Samsung’s approach may be see what sticks, but Apple’s approach is wait and see. There’s certainly interest from Apple when it comes to the foldable market, and such interest dates back to 2015 – though interest doesn’t always translate to intent.