The Indian foldable smartphone market is experiencing a significant upsurge, driven by fast-paced technological advancements, increased consumer demand, and aggressive price strategies by smartphone manufacturers. Even though still fairly niche, the market is developing rapidly and is set to become a key driver in the premium smartphone market.
MARKET GROWTH AND PROJECTIONS
- India’s foldable smartphone market is growing strongly. Recent studies indicate:
- Revenue Generation: In 2024, the market accounted for approximately USD 2.4 billion.
- Future Growth: It’s anticipated to reach USD 5.1 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 12.7% (2025–2030).
- Shipments: To grow at a CAGR of 56%, reaching 6.3 million units by 2027.
This rapid growth is driven by growing availability, improved software support, and declining prices in the ultra-premium segment.
In addition, the share of foldables in the ultra-premium segment (over ₹45,000) is predicted to increase from 8% in 2023 to 35% by 2025, redefining the competitive scenario.
MAJOR PLAYERS AND MODELS IN INDIA
India’s foldable smartphone market now comprises models across price segments, with a combination of premium and affordable foldables:
Samsung
- Still dominating with its Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip lineup.
- Phones like the Z Flip5 (starting around ₹64,999) and Z Fold4 (around ₹89,999) deliver flagship performance.
- Production at Samsung’s Noida factory has reduced prices substantially.
Tecno
Has aggressively priced variants such as:
- Phantom V Fold – below ₹1 lakh
- Phantom V Flip – below ₹50,000
The brand recorded a 211% boost in its premium segment.
Motorola
- Razr 40 begins at a mere ₹44,999 — one of the cheapest foldables in India.
- Received great consumer reception during sales festivals.
OPPO and OnePlus
- OPPO Find N2 Flip and N3 Flip — marry elegant design with flagship hardware.
- OnePlus Open also has a high-end book-fold style experience.
Vivo
- The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro enters the high-end foldable category with high-end pricing (₹1,59,999) and powerful specs.
- Google makes serious entry into the foldable category in India, directly competing with Samsung and OnePlus.
- Its Pixel Fold (beginning at ₹1,54,999) features world-class cameras with AI optimization and Tensor G-series chip.
CONSUMER TRENDS AND PREFERENCES
Indian consumers are increasingly valuing the worth of foldables for:
- Multitasking and productivity
- Immersive content viewing
- Glamorous, pocketable designs, particularly with clamshell foldables such as the Z Flip and Find N3 Flip
Foldables are also gaining popularity among female shoppers and professionals seeking tech-embracing luxury products.
AFFORDABILITY AND FINANCING DRIVING GROWTH
Brands such as Motorola and Tecno are democratizing foldables:
- Models for less than ₹60,000 are widely available.
- EMI deals and buyback benefits are luring new premium customers.
⚠️ CHALLENGES AND CONSIDERATIONS
While positive momentum exists, main challenges remain:
- Durability issues (hinge and screen)
- Optimization of software for folding UIs
- Perception of first-time buyers about fragility
Consumer confidence will increase as manufacturers optimize fold mechanisms and enhance after-sales support.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
With brands increasingly innovating and affordability increasing, foldable phones are set to:
- Become mainstream in the premium market
- Push design limits and software capabilities
- Account for a 35% market share in ultra-premium devices by 2025
India’s foldable revolution is in its infancy — and the next two or three years will dictate the way these devices shape mobile lifestyles.
