2025 May Challenge Foldable Phones, But Innovation Is Far From Over

In the whirlwind world of consumer tech, foldable phones once represented the cutting-edge frontier of mobile innovation. They promised the best of both worlds—a phone and a tablet in one device, sleek designs, futuristic appeal, and multitasking power. However, as we look ahead to 2025, the market for foldable smartphones may be facing a cooling period. Declining sales forecasts and shifting consumer preferences suggest a possible slowdown. But before we write off the foldable era, it's worth noting that this downturn might actually pave the way for a more sustainable and innovative future.

Let’s break down the reasons behind the projected decline, the challenges foldables still face, and the silver linings that could define the next chapter in foldable tech.

Why Foldable Phones Aren’t Booming as Expected

When Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola started showcasing foldable phones a few years back, the buzz was undeniable. Foldables were seen as the answer to the plateauing smartphone market—a way to bring excitement and differentiation to an industry that had grown somewhat predictable. But despite the initial hype, mass adoption hasn’t quite materialized the way some predicted.

Here’s why:

1. High Price Points

Foldable phones often cost $1,500 or more, putting them well beyond the reach of the average consumer. While early adopters were willing to pay a premium, many users still see them as luxuries rather than necessities.

2. Durability Concerns

Early models were plagued by issues like fragile screens, hinge failures, and water resistance limitations. Even as build quality improves, the perception of fragility lingers.

3. Limited Use Cases

While the idea of having a phone that can expand into a tablet is appealing, not everyone finds it practical. Most users are happy with the capabilities of their standard smartphones, especially as screen sizes and aspect ratios improve.

4. Software Optimization

Foldables require apps and interfaces to adjust dynamically between folded and unfolded states. Despite Android's growing support for foldables, not all apps handle transitions smoothly, which detracts from the user experience.

The 2025 Outlook: What Analysts Are Saying

Industry analysts suggest that 2025 may mark a tapering off of foldable phone sales. Growth, which once looked exponential, may flatten due to market saturation in premium segments and lukewarm interest from mid-tier buyers.

According to some projections, global foldable shipments may stagnate or even decline by a small margin in 2025 before potentially rebounding. Brands that over-relied on foldables for innovation headlines may be forced to reassess product strategy.

But Here’s the Silver Lining: What Could Go Right

A market dip doesn't mean doom. In fact, it may be just what the industry needs to recalibrate and focus on real value.

1. Maturing Technology = Better Devices

As competition increases and components become cheaper, manufacturers will be able to produce more durable, user-friendly, and affordable foldables. The lessons learned from first and second-generation devices are already driving improvements in hinges, screen materials, and battery design.

2. Shift Toward Practical Designs

We’re seeing a move toward more pocketable, clamshell-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr—devices that prioritize portability and usability over size and screen space. These may be more appealing to a mainstream audience than larger foldables.

3. Mid-Range Foldables on the Horizon

As the tech becomes less costly, expect to see foldables aimed at mid-range buyers. Brands like OnePlus and Xiaomi are already exploring more accessible models, which could bring a wave of new users into the foldable ecosystem.

4. More Polished Software Experience

Google’s work on Android optimization for large and foldable screens—especially with Android 14 and future iterations—is helping developers design more adaptable apps. This means fewer glitches and a smoother transition between screen modes.

5. Enterprise and Productivity Growth

Businesses are increasingly looking for powerful mobile tools. Foldables offer the potential for multitasking, large screen note-taking, and mobile presentations—capabilities that make them attractive for enterprise users even if consumer sales dip.

Looking Ahead: What Needs to Happen

For the foldable phone market to thrive in the long term—even after a dip—it will need to strike the right balance between innovation, usability, and affordability.

Key focus areas should include:

• Durability: Continue investing in stronger hinges and more robust foldable glass.

• Software Partnerships: Encourage app developers to create foldable-optimized experiences.

• Lower Entry Costs: Introduce budget-friendly foldables without major compromises.

• Marketing Realism: Set practical expectations instead of overselling the “futuristic” appeal.

Final Thoughts: Not the End, Just the Evolution

The potential decline in foldable phone sales in 2025 should not be seen as a sign of failure, but rather as a reality check—an opportunity for the industry to regroup and align innovation with consumer needs.

Tech innovation is rarely a straight line. Just as early smartphones once stumbled before going mainstream, foldables may need to take a step back to leap forward. The silver lining? The next generation of foldable devices could be smarter, stronger, and more accessible than ever.

As consumers grow more discerning, only the most practical and polished devices will stand out. If manufacturers rise to the challenge, 2025 might not be the end of foldables—but rather the beginning of a smarter, more grounded future in mobile design.