The recent report from CounterPoint Research has highlighted the rise of Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, noting a remarkable 265% increase in sales for the company in Europe. While Samsung remains the leader in foldable sales, it experienced a notable 24% decline during the same period.
Additionally, Motorola has outperformed Honor and is now the second-largest smartphone vendor in Europe. Interestingly, the overall foldable market in the region has only grown by 4% in the first quarter, making up 1.5% of total smartphone sales.
According to Jan Stryjak, associate director at CounterPoint Research, the limited growth in the foldable market may indicate concerns about high prices and consumer comprehension. He noted that even though new foldable models are attracting attention, their steep prices and questions surrounding durability may deter widespread adoption.
While Samsung’s sales decline reflects decreasing consumer interest, Motorola’s performance benefited greatly from its Razr 2024 series, resulting in a 58% sales increase. Conversely, OPPO suffered the largest drop in sales at 63%, capturing only 4% of the foldable market.
The report emphasizes that brands like Google, TECNO, and Xiaomi have gained significant traction thanks to newly launched devices at appealing price points, contributing 8% to the foldable market. Particularly, TECNO’s Phantom V Fold 2 and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold received accolades for their innovative features.
To regain market enthusiasm, Samsung is expected to innovate further. The company has teased the upcoming release of an Ultra variant within its Galaxy Z Fold 7 series, set to launch in July.
Exciting developments in the foldable space seem on the horizon as Samsung prepares for its next Unpacked event in New York.