If you’re excited about folding phones, you’re not alone. This year has marked a significant evolution for foldable technology, highlighted by the latest Galaxy Z Fold 7. It rounds off a busy year where various smartphones aimed to tackle previous issues, proving foldables can rival traditional phones in usability.
Multiple manufacturers have stepped into the game, focusing on reducing thickness, a key aspect for many consumers. Among the ultra-thin foldable phones released this year, one model stands out by providing the smartphone experience we’ve been yearning for.
It’s been just seven years since the launch of the first folding phones, and they’ve already evolved to feel remarkably like regular smartphones in your pocket. Yet, with Apple still reportedly working on an iPhone Fold, and all major Android manufacturers gearing up for their own releases, the best offerings are still ahead of us.
2018 to 2020: The Initial Foldable Era
Surprisingly, the first commercial folding phone was launched by Royole in 2018—an unknown name to many tech enthusiasts. Starting at around €1,150, its performance fell short of expectations.
In 2019, Samsung released the Galaxy Fold, shortly followed by Huawei’s Mate X—a device that featured a unique display wrapping around the exterior, showcasing smaller bezels that hinted at future design trends.
The foldable market expanded beyond book-style phones with the revival of the Motorola Razr in November 2019. Following this, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Flip, bringing true competition to the flip-phone segment in the U.S.
While various brands explored the flip phone market with limited success, Motorola and Samsung emerged as the dominant players, establishing a near-duopoly.
The launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 2 in September 2020 introduced a full-screen experience, improved durability, and showcased Samsung DeX, enhancing the foldable experience.
2021 to 2023: A Defining Era
The years 2021 and 2022 witnessed a surge in the foldable market, with Samsung innovating further through the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and 4. Meanwhile, competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi also made strides into the foldable arena.
This momentum continued into 2023. Samsung released the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, while Google introduced the first-gen Pixel Fold, and Honor emphasized lightweight design with the Magic V2.
Yet, the standout device was the OnePlus Open, released late 2023. Praised for its slim design, exceptional camera, and commendable battery life, it remains a favorite in the foldable category.
On the flip side, this category also saw advancements, with large front screens becoming the norm, showcased by the Razr 2023 series and the new Galaxy Z Flip 7 from Samsung.
2024 to 2025: The Ultra-Thin Era
Recently, we entered the ultra-thin era. The Honor Magic V3 managed to become the world’s thinnest folding phone when it launched at a thickness of just 4.4mm. Soon after, the Oppo Find N5 took that title with a slim 4.2mm profile.
However, just weeks later, Honor unveiled the Magic V5, measuring only 4.1mm. Although the Galaxy Z Fold 7 did not claim the thinnest title, its weight at 215 grams made it incredibly appealing.
Now measuring a mere 4.2mm unfolded and 8.9mm when folded, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 presents itself just like any conventional smartphone.
As highlighted in my review, this device sets a new standard for foldable design. The Magic V5 boasts the largest battery capacity among this category and excels in camera capabilities. Furthermore, Google is reportedly announcing the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold soon.
2026 Onwards: The iPhone Fold Era?
Apple, a major player yet to enter the foldable market, is rumored to launch the iPhone Fold in September 2026. This entry could significantly elevate the foldable category’s status, driving wider acceptance among consumers. Historically, Apple’s presence has propelled new product categories to success.
Samsung continues to innovate with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, ensuring they’re at the forefront of this market. As Apple prepares to join the fray, it’s exciting to think about how other manufacturers will respond and adapt. The future of foldable phones looks bright, and I for one can’t wait to see what’s in store!
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