Foldable Phones: 5 Pros and 5 Cons [2024]
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Time to read 6 min
Foldable phones are currently a hot trend in mobile technology, with Samsung, Google, Huawei, and Motorola vying for a slice of the market. Before you rush out and buy one, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of this emerging device. To keep you on the right track, we’ll provide a comprehensive and balanced view of foldable phones, helping you decide if they're worth getting in 2024.
Table of Content
Are Foldable Phones Worth It? 5 Pros and 5 Cons
Pros
✅ Unique display and versatility
✅ Improved productivity tools
✅ Sleek and immersive design
✅ Superior portability
✅ Future-proof
Cons
❌ Hefty price tag
❌ Durability issues
❌ Battery life (tends to drain faster)
❌ Visible crease
❌ Limited Hardware and Software Repairs
With their immersive design and build, foldable phones offer a new user experience and approach. Although this technology hasn’t been commercialized for very long, the first prototypes date back over a decade, so they aren’t entirely “new.”
Every iteration of these foldables released year after year receives improved versions, attracting more smartphone users. This surge in popularity has driven global foldable phone shipments to reach around 25 million units as of 2024. The smartphone industry expects this number to rise, especially with the latest foldable models launched annually by major phone companies like Samsung.
What are Foldable Phones?
Image source: Smartprix
Back in the early 2000s, foldable phones were everywhere, with tech giants Nokia and Motorola pioneering them. The only difference is that the smartphone industry today combines mobile phone experience with computing capabilities. With artificial intelligence (AI) taking over, we could see a lot more innovations never seen before.
Today’s foldable phones come in various shapes and forms, including:
Tablet-sized, book-style screens
Flip smartphones
Tri-foldable phones
You heard it right. Chinese tech company TCL revealed the world’s first functional triple folding phone just this year.
Here’s how foldable phones work: A flexible display that bends along a hinge, allowing you to switch between a compact phone form factor and a larger screen for multiple tasks.
Leading models like the Samsung Galaxy Fold and Google Pixel Fold have paved the way, with Motorola's iconic Razr making a comeback in a foldable form as well.
Speaking of Samsung, they are unveiling the next-gen foldables – the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 – around the fall. We can expect an upgrade in the overall design and potentially in price, too.
Watch the latest leaks on the upcoming Galaxy foldable: all things design, display, storage, and battery!
5 Pros of Foldable Phones
So, what exactly makes foldable phones the “next generation” smartphones? Let’s find out below.
1. Enhanced Display and Versatility
Foldable phones provide a larger display surface when unfolded, essentially combining the functionality of a phone with that of a tablet. This expanded screen area allows for:
Improved Multitasking: Users can efficiently run multiple applications simultaneously, fostering a more productive workflow.
Enriched Entertainment: The larger screen enhances the enjoyment of multimedia content, such as movies, games, and eBooks.
2. Increased Productivity
The additional screen real estate of foldable phones significantly improves productivity by enabling users to work more easily. Due to the increased viewing area, tasks involving documents, spreadsheets, and presentations become more manageable.
3. Innovative Design and User Experience
Beyond functionality, foldable phones have a unique and aesthetically pleasing design. The innovative folding mechanism creates a visually striking device, setting it apart from traditional smartphones. Additionally, the foldable form factor introduces a new way to interact with the phone, making everyday tasks feel fresh and engaging.
4. Superior Portability
Despite the larger screen, foldable phones offer incredible portability. They fold down to a compact size that easily slips into your pocket, giving you the benefits of a tablet without the bulk.
5. Future-Proof Technology
Foldable phones represent the future of smartphones, allowing users to experience these advancements firsthand. Opting for a foldable phone lets you invest in cutting-edge technology and stay ahead of the curve.
5 Cons of Foldable Phones
While foldable phones offer exciting advancements, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks before making a big purchase.
1. High Cost
Foldable phones currently represent a significant investment. Due to the innovative technology and complex engineering involved, they carry a premium price tag compared to traditional smartphones. Carefully weigh the cost against the benefits to determine if it aligns with your budget.
2. Durability Concerns
The foldable design introduces new elements that raise questions about long-term durability. The foldable screen and hinge are potential weak points, susceptible to scratches, cracks, or hinge malfunctions. While manufacturers are constantly improving materials and designs, some users might be concerned about the overall robustness of these devices.
3. Battery Life
The larger, high-resolution displays of foldable phones can consume battery power at a faster rate compared to traditional smartphones. Depending on your usage patterns, you might need to charge your phone more frequently throughout the day. If battery life is a major concern for you, this might be a factor to consider.
4. Visible Crease
The folding mechanism of these phones can leave a visible crease in the center of the unfolded display. While some manufacturers are minimizing the crease with improved technology, it might be noticeable depending on the viewing angle and content displayed. This crease can be a visual distraction for some users.
5. Limited Availability of Hardware and Software Repairs
Since foldable phones are a relatively new technology, the repair infrastructure might not be as readily available as with traditional smartphones. Finding qualified technicians and replacement parts could be more challenging, and repairs might be more expensive due to the specialized skills and tools required.
📚 Further Readings:
Protecting Your Foldable Phone
Given the delicate nature of foldable phones, investing in a high-quality phone case is crucial. Here at Thinborne, we offer cases specifically designed for foldable phones. Our cases provide superior protection without compromising the functionality of the folding design. We use durable and lightweight aramid fiber material to safeguard against drops, scratches, and other potential damage. Plus MagSafe compatible for convenient wireless charging.
Conclusion
Foldable phones offer a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. They have offer unique user experience. However, they come at a premium price with durability concerns and potential limitations in battery life and repairs.
Ultimately, deciding whether to buy a foldable phone comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you value cutting-edge technology and a large display, a foldable phone might be a great choice. If you prioritize affordability, durability, and a lighter phone, you might be better off sticking with a traditional smartphone. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and choose the device that best suits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will foldable phones replace traditional smartphones?
It's uncertain. While foldables offer advantages, traditional smartphones might remain popular due to affordability and durability.
Are there different screen sizes for foldable phones?
Yes! Foldables come in various sizes when unfolded, ranging from tablet-sized to phone-sized.
Do foldable phones work with a stylus?
Some foldable phones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, are compatible with styluses for enhanced creativity and note-taking.
How will foldable phones impact apps?
App developers are constantly optimizing apps for foldable displays. Expect smoother experiences and features designed specifically for the larger format.
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Franzria F.
Content Writer of Thinborne - The super thin phone case made of aramid fiber.
"I write anything tech and help businesses reach their target audience with a messaging that best fits the reader's needs. I can obsess over grammar and bite-sized, readable sentences because I care about people more than search engines. When I'm not writing, I am just in charge of finding coffee shops."