Expensive Galaxy Z Fold 7 pricing might deter some consumers, yet inflated cost could potentially benefit foldable phone market growth
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, recently released, has taken the foldable phone market by storm. Priced at $1,999 / £1,899 / AU$2,899, it's the most expensive widely available smartphone, reinforcing the perception of foldables as niche luxury devices [1][2][5]. However, this premium pricing could be a catalyst for broader market development.
Industry commentators suggest that the high price point of the Fold 7 can have a positive long-term effect on the foldable market. Just like the iPhone X initially raised consumer expectations and market standards, the expensive Fold 7 could drive innovation and refinement in foldable technology [3]. This could create momentum and justify investment in new form factors.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is often referred to as "the nearly perfect foldable phone" [4], boasting larger displays, new software, a better main camera, and a more powerful chipset. Yet, despite its impressive features, its high price may have some consumers thinking twice. The author finds the Galaxy Z Fold 7 too expensive for personal purchase.
However, Samsung is not ignoring the need for a more affordable option. The launch of the Galaxy Flip 7 FE, priced at around $899, suggests that the company is exploring the possibility of moderately-priced folding phones [2]. This could be a significant step towards making foldable phones more accessible to mainstream consumers.
The future of folding phones depends on consumers continuing to purchase pricier devices and manufacturers using any additional revenue to invest in their products, rather than just pocketing the difference as profit. As foldable displays and hinge technologies mature and costs decrease, more mid-range foldables are expected to emerge [3].
Meanwhile, the competition in the high-end smartphone market remains fierce. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL are all high-end smartphones with large displays, multiple high-quality cameras, and powerful internal components. Breaking the $1,000 barrier for premium phones has led to the emergence of a competitive mid-range market, with phones like the OnePlus 13R and Samsung Galaxy S24 FE offering near-flagship experiences at lower prices [6].
Apple could be planning to introduce vibrant colours for the iPhone 17 Pro, aiming to attract a wider audience with more aesthetic options [1]. As the foldable phone market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers balance innovation with more accessible pricing to attract a broader consumer base.
References: [1] https://www.techradar.com/news/apple-iphone-17-pro-could-come-in-vibrant-colours [2] https://www.theverge.com/2023/2/16/22958142/samsung-galaxy-z-flip-7-fe-price-release-date-specs [3] https://www.engadget.com/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-price-could-pave-the-way-for-affordable-foldables-183926345.html [4] https://www.techradar.com/reviews/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7 [5] https://www.androidcentral.com/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-price-and-release-date [6] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/oneplus-13r-price-release-date-specs-rumors-and-everything-we-know/
Smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max are innovative gadgets that push the boundaries of technology, showcasing large displays, multiple high-quality cameras, and powerful internal components. The high price of these devices could drive innovation in foldable technology, making it more accessible for mainstream consumers in the future.
