Samsung is reportedly planning to launch a groundbreaking rollable smartphone, featuring a massive 12.4-inch display, as early as 2025. This ambitious move comes as the tech giant faces intensifying competition in the foldable smartphone segment, where rivals like Google and OnePlus have made significant strides.
Navigating Fierce Competition
The foldable smartphone market has seen rapid advancements recently, making it increasingly challenging for Samsung to maintain its leadership. The newly launched Pixel 9 Pro Fold from Google and the OnePlus Open have garnered attention for their innovative designs and impressive features, leaving Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 struggling to keep up. Moreover, on the international stage, the Honor Magic V3 has set a new standard with its incredibly thin design, further complicating Samsung’s position.
In light of these challenges, a report from The Elec indicates that Samsung is re-evaluating its strategy and pivoting toward rollable technology. This shift follows the company’s recent loss to Huawei, which recently unveiled its first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT, with an eye-catching design and a large display.
Innovative Features on the Horizon
Samsung’s anticipated rollable smartphone aims to feature a larger display than Huawei’s Mate XT, reportedly measuring up to 12.4 inches. In a notable twist, the device will also conceal a camera beneath the display, a feature that could revolutionize smartphone design. While specific details about the hardware remain scarce, the prospect of a successful rollable device would position Samsung as a pioneer in this emerging category.
Before its mobile division shuttered in 2021, LG had made significant progress toward launching its own rollable device, suggesting that Samsung’s foray into this territory could be well-timed, filling a gap left by its competitor.
Sales Figures Raise Concerns
Despite Samsung’s innovative aspirations, the company is grappling with disappointing sales figures for its current foldable offerings. Reports indicate that sales of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 have fallen short of expectations, with pre-sales in South Korea totaling just over 900,000 units, a decline of more than 100,000 from the previous generation. These figures, while not dire, suggest a need for a fresh approach to capture consumer interest.
With plans for the rollable smartphone reportedly set for the second half of 2025, all eyes will be on Samsung as it seeks to reclaim its status as a leader in mobile innovation. The rollable smartphone could be the game changer the company needs to invigorate its product line and win back consumer confidence.
For further details, check out the full report here.