Samsung’s latest foldable phones are unexpectedly popular, potentially straining production and highlighting issues with the Z Flip 7 lineup.
Samsung’s Foldables Sell Surprisingly Well, Posing Production Challenges
The $2,000 foldable market is booming, catching even Samsung off guard. Analysts and the company itself seem surprised by the strong demand for the Galaxy Z Fold 7, a device that has reportedly sold exceptionally well, surpassing initial expectations. This success could necessitate a production ramp-up, which might prove difficult due to the phone’s intricate design.
What is the sales target for the Galaxy Z Fold 7? Samsung’s production goal for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in 2025 is 2.4 million units. This target was considered optimistic, especially since the previous model, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, sold 2.2 million units last year. However, early pre-order figures from key markets like India, South Korea, and China indicate that the Fold 7 is significantly outperforming its predecessor.
The thin, stylish design of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a clear draw, making it a potential hit. However, its sophisticated engineering presents a challenge for component suppliers if production needs to scale up quickly.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a slim profile and extensive screen real estate, positioning it as a strong contender in the foldable market.
While it’s premature to declare victory, the strong initial demand suggests Samsung might need to navigate manufacturing complexities to meet potential future orders. The company would likely prefer this “problem” of over-demand over the alternative.
Galaxy Z Flip 7 Sales Lagging Behind Expectations
The Galaxy Z Flip 7, on the other hand, faces a different challenge. Samsung aims to sell 2.3 million units of the Z Flip 7 this year, plus 700,000 units of the Z Flip 7 FE. This brings the projected total to 3 million units, matching last year’s Z Flip 6 sales. However, the Z Flip 7’s value proposition is being questioned.
Critics point out that the “affordable” Fan Edition model is priced too high. Additionally, the main clamshell model has seen minimal upgrades compared to its predecessor. These factors may contribute to its current underwhelming performance.
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is not anticipated to match the sales performance of the Z Flip 6.
Deals and discounts could potentially boost the Z Flip 7’s appeal and improve the overall sales figures for Samsung’s foldable portfolio. The company’s total foldable sales projection for 2025 is 6.1 million units, which matches 2024’s performance, despite an initial target of 6.8 million units. This indicates that while the Fold 7 is a bright spot, the foldable segment as a whole is facing challenges.
