Friday, 4 April 2025
27.2 C
Singapore
28.1 C
Thailand
20.3 C
Indonesia
26.9 C
Philippines

Global foldable phone shipments decline as Samsung faces stiff competition

Global foldable phone shipments fell 1% in Q3 2024, with Samsungโ€™s drop offset by Xiaomi, Motorola, and Honorโ€™s impressive gains.

The global foldable phone market experienced its first-ever decline in Q3, signalling a shift in consumer trends and competitive dynamics. According to Counterpoint Research, despite many brands making significant gains, Samsungโ€™s performance brought down overall shipment numbers.

A closer look at the foldable market

In its Q3 2024 report, Counterpoint Research revealed that global foldable phone shipments dropped by 1% year-on-year. This decline was unexpected, as many competing brands recorded impressive growth in the same period.

Xiaomi saw a staggering 185% year-on-year increase in shipments, Motorola achieved 164%, Honor grew by 121%, and even Huawei managed a 23% rise. These figures highlight a growing interest in foldables outside Samsung’s domain.

The infographic from Counterpoint shows that Xiaomi and Motorola now hold 6% and 7% of the foldable market share, respectively, and have significant gains from negligible positions in the past. Honor doubled its share to 10%, solidifying its presence.

Samsung, however, saw a sharp 21% drop in foldable shipments, reducing its market share to 56% from a dominant 70% in the same quarter last year. This decline coincided with the launch of its latest foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6. Traditionally, new releases drive sales, making these results even more surprising.

Samsung’s challenges and rivals’ opportunities

Counterpoint Research highlighted that the Galaxy Z Flip6 struggled to match the sales of its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip5. The research firm stated:

โ€œAmong its new models, the book-type Galaxy Z Fold6 delivered a modest performance, while the clamshell Galaxy Z Flip6 struggled to match its predecessorโ€™s sales.โ€

The Galaxy Z Flip6โ€™s challenges may stem from its limited upgrades over previous models. While it is a well-reviewed device, its secondary display, the Flex Window, received only software enhancements. The foldโ€™s crease remains, and its new Galaxy AI feature is available as a firmware update for older models. Additionally, a price increase dampened consumer enthusiasm.

Counterpoint Research also warned that Samsung faces increasing competition from brands like Honor and Motorola, which are gaining momentum through innovation and competitive pricing. The high cost of foldables, a longstanding issue, continues to deter many consumers.

Foldable phones in the broader smartphone market

Samsungโ€™s struggles in the foldable segment are reflected in its overall smartphone performance. Counterpoint reported a 1% year-on-year drop in total smartphone shipments for Samsung, even as global smartphone shipments rose by 2%. However, Samsung maintained its lead in the market, commanding a 19% share in Q3 2024.

This suggests Samsungโ€™s broader strategy remains effective, but its foldable lineup may need a rethink. Addressing persistent issues like the crease and price could help the company regain its footing in this growing market.

Meanwhile, competitors like Xiaomi, Honor, and Motorola are seizing opportunities to innovate and capture market share. By focusing on consumer needs and refining their products, these brands could further challenge Samsungโ€™s dominance.

The future of foldable phones will likely depend on who adapts fastest to consumer demands, with innovation and affordability being key drivers.

Hot this week

Apple Intelligence now supports English (Singapore) with the latest update

Appleโ€™s latest update brings Apple Intelligence support for English (Singapore), making AI features more accessible without needing US English settings.

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors failing too soon, users report

Reports of AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU failures are growing, with over 100 cases linked to ASRock motherboards. Users suspect voltage issues.

YouTube expands shopping affiliate programme in Singapore through Shopee partnership

YouTube teams up with Shopee to launch its Shopping affiliate programme in Singapore, giving creators new ways to monetise their content.

MLBB and OPPO crown regional champions at APAC Smooth Legend Cup

IDONOTSLEEP and Maru Gamerpact Esports take top honours at the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals.

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

YouTube expands shopping affiliate programme in Singapore through Shopee partnership

YouTube teams up with Shopee to launch its Shopping affiliate programme in Singapore, giving creators new ways to monetise their content.

Misconceptions about STEM careers continue to deter young women in Singapore

New research shows stereotypes and lack of support are deterring young women from STEM careers, posing a risk to Singaporeโ€™s innovation goals.

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

Related Articles