exploding sales for the Fold 7 and Flip 7 smartphones, with prices at $2000 and $1100 respectively; Samsung expresses astonishment
The latest addition to Samsung's line of foldable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, is making waves in the market, outperforming its sibling, the Galaxy Z Flip 7. According to preliminary sales data, the Fold 7 accounts for 40-50% of orders, depending on the model.
In South Korea, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has been particularly popular, with the device accounting for 60% of the pre-orders. This marks a significant shift from previous years, where the Galaxy Z Flip was the more popular foldable. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, the cheaper variant of the Flip, is not as well-received.
The success of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the device boasts a thinner, lighter, and more stylish design compared to its predecessors. This refined form factor, combined with camera and overall performance enhancements, has broadened the Fold 7's appeal.
Secondly, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 includes a 200-megapixel main camera, comparable in quality to Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra. This upgrade, overcoming typical foldable camera hardware constraints, has attracted users who prioritize photography.
Thirdly, Samsung's strategic marketing and carrier offers have helped drive pre-orders for the Fold 7. These initiatives have reduced the upfront cost burden, making the premium device more accessible to consumers.
Lastly, the shift in buyer demographics and preferences also plays a role in the Fold 7's success. Historically, the Flip outsold the Fold as a more affordable, pocketable option popular with younger buyers. However, the Fold 7's evolution towards a more refined, lightweight device with flagship features is attracting a wider consumer base willing to pay premium prices for productivity and camera capabilities.
In the United States, pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 surpassed the combined total of all previous Fold generations. Carrier pre-orders for the Fold 7 in the United States were up 60% compared to last year. Samsung is increasing production plans for the Galaxy Z Fold 7, with expectations to produce 2.4 million units, up from last year's 2.2 million.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7's success in the market suggests that it is appealing to a broader audience, moving beyond early adopters and tech journalists. In India, Samsung pre-ordered 210,000 units of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 within 48 hours, causing a stock shortage.
In Europe, pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 increased by over 50% compared to its predecessor. Globally, foldables alone will bring Samsung billions in revenue this year. The Samsung supply chain is scrambling to keep up with the demand for the Galaxy Z Fold 7, indicating its broader appeal.
In South Korea, young men made up 83% of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 buyers, while the Galaxy Z Flip continues to attract more female buyers (59%). Overall pre-orders for both devices in the United States jumped by 25% year-on-year.
In conclusion, the Galaxy Z Fold 7's success over the Flip 7 can be attributed to a combination of design innovation, camera improvement, and strategic marketing that resonates with consumers in South Korea and beyond. This shift in Samsung's foldable phone market dynamics is a testament to the growing appeal of foldable devices and Samsung's ability to meet consumer demand.
- The thinner and lighter design, camera improvements, and strategic marketing of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 have made it more appealing to a broader audience, resulting in a significant increase in pre-orders and sales not only in South Korea but also globally.
- With the Galazxy Z Fold 7 accounting for 60% of pre-orders in South Korea, it's clear that consumers are prioritizing gadgets with larger screens and superior photography capabilities over smartphones like the Galaxy Z Flip 7.
