Samsung has been trying to democratize foldable phones since it released the Galaxy Z Flip in 2020. The original model went on sale for nearly $1,400, and the 5G variant was released later the same year for $1,450. Z Flip prices kept declining over the years; however, they seem to have plateaued at $999.
Even though it is possible that the Galaxy Z Flip series won't get any cheaper than $999, Samsung appears to have another plan that would hopefully lead to the proliferation of foldable phones. And that plan involves a new lower-cost foldable phone model.
Story continues after our Galaxy Z Flip 5 review video
In a recent report by TrendForce, which explores the possibility of foldable phones becoming a lifeline for the declining global smartphone market, the research firm rekindles the idea that Samsung is working on a third foldable phone series at a lower price point.
According to the market watcher, Samsung will release a mid-range foldable phone next year, judging by supply chain activity. This mid-range Galaxy phone will reduce “price barriers and [make] foldable phones more accessible” to more buyers.
It sounds like this third foldable Galaxy device should cost less than the Galaxy Z Flip rather than bridging the gap between the Flip and the Fold.
2024 might hold many Samsung innovations
As yet, there's no information about this mid-range foldable Galaxy phone's form factor, specifications, and price. A previous rumor said the phone might be a part of the now-growing Fan Edition lineup, but at the moment, this sounds like speculation. If Samsung is preparing this device for a 2024 release, so far, supply chain sources have been very restrained with their information.
With rumors of a new mid-range foldable Galaxy phone coming, the return of the Exynos SoC for the Galaxy S series, a possible late 2024 release for the XR (mixed reality) headset, and new AI-driven features for the upcoming flagships, 2024 might turn out to be one of the most interesting years for Samsung fans in recent memory. But, of course, time will tell how many of these rumors are rooted in reality.
