Samsung is preparing to launch a more budget-friendly Galaxy Foldable series this year, providing a potentially less premium alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold6. Recent leaks from reliable sources, including Roland Quandt, indicate the development of an affordable variant of the Galaxy Z Fold6 with the internal codename “Q6A” aka “Galaxy A Fold”.
In contrast to earlier speculations about an ultra-affordable foldable smartphone, Samsung has officially denied such claims. The eagerly awaited device, tentatively named the Galaxy A Fold, is projected to fall within the $1000 to $1200 price range, positioning it as the most economical foldable option on the market, excluding Motorola’s offerings.
Alongside the Galaxy Z Fold6 and the speculated Galaxy A Fold, Samsung’s upcoming lineup includes the Galaxy Z Flip6 (SM-F741, “B6”) and a potential Galaxy Tab S10+. Internal codenames for unreleased models, such as SM-F741x (“B6”), SM-F956x (“Q6”), and SM-X828x, have been disclosed. The presence of “Q6A” strengthens speculation that it is linked to the more affordable Galaxy A Fold.
Following Samsung’s conventional nomenclature, the Galaxy A series typically denotes mid-range smartphones. Despite being a foldable device, it is expected that the Galaxy A Fold will adhere to this mid-range pattern.
In a recent report from ETNews, it is revealed that the more affordable variant of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is poised to depart from the premium features present in its higher-priced counterparts. Notably, this cost-effective version is expected to forego S Pen functionality, a strategic move aimed at reducing the overall cost of the device. Given the potentially limited use of S Pen compatibility, this exclusion appears to be a practical approach to making foldable phones more accessible to a wider consumer base.
To further economize, Samsung is reportedly contemplating the use of lower-end components, including processors. The report suggests that the more affordable Galaxy Z Fold 6 variant may opt for last year’s processor, reserving the latest chip for the flagship Galaxy Z Fold 6. This cost-cutting strategy aligns with Samsung’s goal of selling 10 million foldable phones annually, a target that reportedly fell short in both 2022 and 2023.
Faced with challenges in meeting sales targets, Samsung seems to be adjusting its strategy by prioritizing the launch of more affordable smartphones. The rumored Galaxy Z Fold 6 FE (tentative name) aligns with this strategic shift, offering a budget-friendly alternative to attract a broader audience. With competitive foldable phones entering the market from Chinese competitors at compelling price points, Samsung’s move to introduce more affordable options appears strategically sound.
While the standard Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to emphasize affordability, reports also suggest it will boast a new and thinner design, potentially incorporating a revised screen aspect ratio reminiscent of the OnePlus Open. This signifies Samsung’s commitment not only to making foldables more accessible but also to advancing design and enhancing the user experience throughout its foldable lineup.
As Samsung strives to meet evolving market demands and contend with emerging players, the introduction of budget-friendly foldables could prove to be a pivotal step. This move sets the stage for increased adoption and potential market dominance in the dynamic landscape of foldable smartphones.
The market is eagerly anticipating further details on how Samsung positions and prices the Galaxy A Fold in comparison to other foldable smartphones.
