In an unexpected turn, Samsung’s upcoming foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, could hit the market with a more affordable price tag than their predecessors. This potential price reduction is attributed to a new manufacturing process for the phone’s bezels.
According to a report by The Elec, sourced via Phandroid, Samsung Display is contemplating the adoption of inkjet printing for creating the bezels on its future foldable phones. This method would replace the current ‘micro dry process decoration’ (MDD) used in crafting the bezels on foldable OLED panels. While this change is not expected to impact the display’s quality or the bezel size, it could lead to significant production cost savings.
The potential cost savings from this new manufacturing technique raise the possibility of Samsung passing on the benefits to consumers in the form of lower retail prices. This move could be strategic for Samsung, aimed at making its foldable phones more accessible and propelling them into mainstream adoption.
Pricing Context and Market Impact
For context, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, one of the company’s most expensive handsets, starts at a steep price point of $1,799.99 / £1,749 / AU$2,599. Even the more affordably positioned Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 starts at $999.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,649. Any reduction in these price points would likely be welcomed by potential buyers and could significantly impact the market dynamics of foldable smartphones.
In addition to the anticipated Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6, Samsung is reportedly considering launching a mid-range foldable model, the Galaxy Z Fold FE, later this year. If Samsung opts for the inkjet printing method for bezels, this model could also benefit from the resulting cost savings, offering a more budget-friendly foldable phone option.
Anticipating Samsung’s Foldable Future
While new foldable phones from Samsung are not expected until at least late July, the prospect of more affordable pricing could generate considerable consumer interest and anticipation. This potential price reduction strategy, if realized, could mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of foldable technology, making it more accessible and possibly reshaping the smartphone market landscape.
