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by Iffat Nawaz

To Flip Or To Fold? Are Bending Phones There Yet?

23 Nov 2024

Photo: Imad Clicks

As we dive into 2024, the foldable phone market is poised for refinement rather than revolution. Last year's surge saw Google, OnePlus, and Motorola join Samsung in the bendable fray, but despite the hype, sales fell short of expectations. 

Yet, the promise of these innovative devices remains. With Motorola's new Razrs, anticipated updates to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip, and whispers of a second-gen Pixel Fold, the question remains: Are bending phones truly ready for prime time?

As developers and designers continue to address user feedback, the line between trend and mainstream will blur. Will 2024 be the year Foldable sheds its premium price tag and unlocks its full potential? Or will flip phones reign supreme? Join The Sandy Times as we delve into the world of bending phones and explore the possibilities.

The flip phone revival: Why Gen Z is ditching smartphones 

In an era where bending phones are gaining traction, a surprising trend is emerging: Gen Z's obsession with old-school flip phones. These retro devices, popular in the 90s and early 2000s, are returning. And it is not just about nostalgia. Young people are seeking a digital detox, increased privacy and a break from the constant connectedness of smartphones.

Excessive smartphone usage leads to sleep disruption, anxiety, reduced social connectivity and shorter attention spans. Flip phones can help limit digital noise and foster a healthier relationship with technology while addressing concerns about surveillance and data breaches.

This trend doesn't signal the demise of smartphones. Instead, users may opt for a smartphone and a flip phone, embracing the benefits of digital detox without sacrificing social media. As the phone landscape evolves, one question remains: will you flip or fold?

Significant developments in bendable phones

As the bendable phone market continues to evolve, 2024 promises significant developments. Despite Samsung Display's reduced shipment forecast, the company plans to revitalise the segment in 2025 with innovative devices.

Motorola, Honor, Vivo, and ZTE's Nubia have already launched their foldable phones. However, Samsung and Google's upcoming releases are highly anticipated.

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Significant developments in bendable phones

As the bendable phone market continues to evolve, 2024 promises significant developments. Despite Samsung Display's reduced shipment forecast, the company plans to revitalise the segment in 2025 with innovative devices.

Motorola, Honor, Vivo, and ZTE's Nubia have already launched their foldable phones. However, Samsung and Google's upcoming releases are highly anticipated.

Samsung's foldable future:

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to feature:

  • New processor
  • Enhanced camera capabilities
  • Expanded cover screen size
  • Possible S Pen slot
  • Cheaper variant and high-end Ultra model

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 will likely boast:

  • Processor refresh
  • Galaxy AI integration
  • 50-megapixel main camera
  • Slightly larger battery

Google's foldable ambitions

The Pixel Fold 2 may offer:

- Larger 8.02-inch internal foldable display

- Expanded 6.29-inch cover screen

- Next-generation Tensor chip

- Possible rebranding as Pixel 9 Pro Fold

OnePlus enters the fray

The OnePlus Open 2 details are scarce, but expect the following:

- Improved cameras

- Enhanced software

- Sleek design

The future of bending phones

Samsung plans to release a dual-folding Galaxy Z Fold model and a second Flip phone in 2025 to boost sales. As the flip or fold debate continues, one thing's clear — bending phones are here to stay.

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The wait for Apple's bendable phone continues

As the debate rages on — flip or fold? — Apple remains noticeably absent from the bendable phone market. Despite accounting for only 1.4% of the global smartphone market in 2023, foldables hold promise for premium phone makers like Apple.

Known for perfecting existing technologies rather than pioneering new ones, Apple is likely waiting for increased demand and improved design solutions. The crease problem, still evident in current foldables, may be a major hurdle. Apple has developed prototype foldable displays but no indication of an imminent release.

Meanwhile, Motorola and Samsung are pushing the boundaries of foldable innovation. Concept devices with rollable and sliding screens may revolutionise phone design, making them more useful and practical. Motorola's Jeff Snow envisions a future where users will wonder how they carry pocket computer 7-inch devices.

This year, foldable devices will take incremental steps forward. Expect refined designs, improved hardware, and enhanced software features. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google's Pixel Fold 2 will likely lead the charge.

Will Apple's eventual entry into the market tip the scales? Only time will tell. The flip-or-fold debate continues, with innovation and consumer demand driving the conversation. Let us check the pros and cons of bending phones.

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OnePlus enters the fray

The OnePlus Open 2 details are scarce, but expect the following:

  • Improved cameras
  • Enhanced software
  • Sleek design

The future of bending phones

Samsung plans to release a dual-folding Galaxy Z Fold model and a second Flip phone in 2025 to boost sales. As the flip or fold debate continues, one thing's clear — bending phones are here to stay.

The wait for Apple's bendable phone continues

As the debate rages on — flip or fold? — Apple remains noticeably absent from the bendable phone market. Despite accounting for only 1.4% of the global smartphone market in 2023, foldables hold promise for premium phone makers like Apple.

Known for perfecting existing technologies rather than pioneering new ones, Apple is likely waiting for increased demand and improved design solutions. The crease problem, still evident in current foldables, may be a major hurdle. Apple has developed prototype foldable displays but no indication of an imminent release.

Meanwhile, Motorola and Samsung are pushing the boundaries of foldable innovation. Concept devices with rollable and sliding screens may revolutionise phone design, making them more useful and practical. Motorola's Jeff Snow envisions a future where users will wonder how they carry pocket computer 7-inch devices.

This year, foldable devices will take incremental steps forward. Expect refined designs, improved hardware, and enhanced software features. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google's Pixel Fold 2 will likely lead the charge.

Will Apple's eventual entry into the market tip the scales? Only time will tell. The flip-or-fold debate continues, with innovation and consumer demand driving the conversation. Let us check the pros and cons of bending phones.

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Foldable phone

Pros:

  • Seamlessly switch between a compact smartphone and a spacious tablet-like screen.
  • Run multiple apps side-by-side on the larger unfolded screen.
  • Enjoy a more extensive screen experience without sacrificing pocket-friendliness.
  • Popular apps are now designed to leverage foldable screens, offering more features and a superior user experience.

Cons:

  • Foldable phones are typically pricier than regular smartphones.
  • Folding mechanisms and flexible screens are more prone to damage from drops or mishandling.
  • Hinges and folding parts require extra care to maintain durability.
  • The unique folding design increases screen damage risk.

Flip phone

Pros:

  • Compact design to fit easily into pockets or small bags.
  • The folding design shields the main screen from scratches and damage.
  • Built to withstand frequent use.
  • Versatile camera angles enable creative photography options.
  • Hands-free video calls are convenient and ergonomic.
  • The cover screen allows for private notification checking.
  • Multitasking capability is supported in some models.
  • Long battery life and quick recharge capabilities.
  • Satisfying opening and closing mechanisms.

Cons:

  • Screen crease visibility may affect the touchscreen experience.
  • Non-removable screen protectors can give potential damage issues.
  • Some apps may not optimise for flip phone interface.
  • Adapting to a unique interface can take time.
  • Cases and screen protectors are harder to find and more expensive.

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