The Folding Phone Dilemma
Why These Marvels of Design Haven’t Gone Mainstream
Folding phones have come a long way. I’ve always found them captivating—a perfect marriage of nostalgia and cutting-edge design. Over the years, I’ve seen the technology steadily improve. The early issues of fragile screens and clunky hinges are becoming relics of the past. Devices like Google’s latest Pixel Fold showcase just how refined and durable these phones have become. Yet, despite all these advances, folding phones remain a niche product, far from the mainstream adoption that was once anticipated. This raises an important question: why haven’t these innovative devices caught on with the masses, and what does the future hold for foldables?
When folding phones re-entered the market, they did so with much fanfare, but the initial excitement quickly dimmed as consumers encountered the reality of cracked screens, heavy builds, and a perception that these were more of a novelty than a necessity. Today, however, the picture is different. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Google’s Pixel Fold represent a much more polished take on the concept, with durable materials, advanced displays, and a user experience that feels fluid rather than experimental. But even with these enhancements, folding phones occupy only a small corner of the mobile market. Google’s Pixel, for instance, is a remarkable device, yet it has struggled to break out beyond a dedicated following.
One of the most significant barriers preventing foldable phones from reaching the masses is their price. Folding phones are premium devices, priced far higher than traditional smartphones. While enthusiasts and early adopters are willing to invest in these devices, the average consumer remains reluctant to pay the premium when standard phones already offer incredible functionality at a lower cost. Then there’s the lingering perception of fragility. While much progress has been made in durability, many consumers still remember the early days of foldables and are hesitant to trust these newer versions. Durability improvements will need to be proven over time to fully dispel these concerns.
Beyond price and durability, the foldable format doesn’t yet offer a clear value proposition for all users. While a folding screen provides unique multitasking abilities and a larger display in a compact form, for many, it’s not essential. Current smartphones already handle most tasks seamlessly, making the added features of a folding phone seem like a luxury rather than a necessity. Moreover, software optimization remains an issue. Though Android has made strides in adapting for foldable displays, app developers need to create more compelling experiences that take full advantage of the form factor. Without truly fold-specific functionality, there’s little to drive users away from their flat, reliable smartphones.
Yet, despite these challenges, there are signs that foldables could eventually break through. As more manufacturers enter the space, competition could drive prices down, making foldables more accessible to the average consumer. The narrative around durability is also shifting. Companies like Samsung are now offering better warranties and highlighting the toughness of their new models, which could, over time, change perceptions. The rise of remote workforces may also create new opportunities for foldables to thrive. Their ability to transform from a phone into a tablet could appeal to professionals who need a versatile device that can handle work and play seamlessly.
However, to truly catapult foldables into the mainstream, it may take one company to unlock their full potential: Apple. Today’s folding phones are impressive, but Apple’s entry into the foldable market could change the game entirely. Apple has a track record of waiting until the right moment, entering mature markets, and redefining them. If Apple were to launch a foldable iPhone, they wouldn’t just match today’s hardware—they would likely go above and beyond, elevating the design, durability, and user experience. But more importantly, Apple would differentiate its foldable through software innovation. With iOS’s ecosystem and Apple’s tight integration between hardware and software, they could create workflows and use cases that other manufacturers have not yet imagined. Think of Apple’s ability to seamlessly link devices—this would likely extend to foldables, where multitasking, file sharing, and productivity could be taken to new heights. Apple’s focus on user experience could be what finally makes foldables more than just a niche category.
Until then, folding phones will continue to hold the interest of a select group of users who appreciate their unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. But as the technology matures, and especially if Apple enters the arena, foldables could finally become a mainstream staple. It’s not a question of whether the technology is ready—today’s folding phones are already excellent—but whether the market is ready for the kind of transformation that only Apple can bring. When that happens, the mobile landscape may change in ways we can’t yet fully predict.