Foldable Smartphones in 2025: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Is the future foldable? Foldable smartphones have emerged in recent years, and in 2025, they’re no longer futuristic concepts seen from afar. Samsung, Google, Motorola, and many others have invested heavily in this technology. But is it more than just a gimmick? Are these revolutionary devices really worth the investment? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of foldable smartphones to discover their advantages, disadvantages, and the models that stand out.

The Irresistible Advantages of Foldable Smartphones

The visual appeal is undeniable: a smartphone that folds is simply impressive. But beyond the “wow” factor, foldable smartphones offer concrete benefits for your daily use.

A giant screen in a compact format: Imagine the possibility of enjoying a screen of more than 7 inches in a device that folds to fit in your pocket. Models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, the Honor Magic V3, or the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold offer an immersive experience for watching videos, working on documents, or consulting maps, while remaining easily transportable. “Flip” models, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 or the Motorola Razr Ultra, excel in compactness, slipping easily into any pocket when folded.

An interface optimized for multitasking: The foldable screen opens up new usage perspectives. Displaying two applications side by side becomes child’s play, responding to a message while watching a video, or using the phone in “tent” mode for video calls. Samsung and Google offer particularly well-adapted interfaces, with seamless screen continuity, smart shortcuts, and optimized navigation. The integration of AI, with features like text suggestion, smart cropping, and live translation, promises to further enhance the user experience.

Significant hardware improvements: The first models presented notable flaws. Today, the improvements are significant. The mechanisms are more robust, the screens are better protected, and the crease is less visible. Devices like the Oppo Find N5 or the Honor Magic V3 combine finesse, water resistance (IPX8), and impeccable manufacturing quality. The display is brighter, smoother, and more pleasant to use, even outdoors. Manufacturers have also made efforts to improve battery life, although this point remains a challenge for some formats.

Drawbacks to Consider Before Taking the Plunge

Even though foldable smartphones have made progress, certain limitations persist and need to be considered before making the leap.

• A price that remains high: This is undoubtedly the main obstacle. In 2025, you still need to budget between 1,000and1,000and2,000 for a foldable smartphone, depending on the model and format. The most complete versions, such as the Galaxy Z Fold6 or the Huawei Mate X6, far exceed $1,200. Some more affordable alternatives exist, such as the Xiaomi MIX Flip or certain Motorola models, but the compromises are more visible (materials, camera, support duration…).
• A durability that can be improved: Foldable screens are more sensitive than classic screens. Although the protections have improved, they remain vulnerable to scratches, shocks, and dust, especially at the hinge. In the event of breakage, the bill can quickly rise. Most manufacturers announce about 200,000 folding cycles, which represents several years of normal use, but this may not reassure everyone.
• Battery life that can be limited: While progress is visible, autonomy can be a compromise, especially on thin models or those with large screens. A full day is generally possible, but intensive use (streaming, GPS, multitasking) can drain the battery faster. Some “flip” models struggle to last until evening without recharging.
• Variable software updates depending on the brand: Samsung and Google ensure software support for several years (up to 7 years for some models), which is a real plus. On the other hand, other brands like Motorola or Honor limit themselves to 3 or 4 years. This is not necessarily a dealbreaker, but at this price point, one expects better. And depending on the models, some versions of Android sometimes take a while to arrive.
• A format that is not for everyone: Foldable smartphones are often heavier and thicker than a classic model. They don’t necessarily fit well in all pockets, and the presence of the crease in the center of the screen can be annoying, especially on “fold” formats. One gets used to it, of course, but it’s not as discreet as one would like.

The Foldable Smartphone Market in 2025: Where are we?

Foldable smartphones are no longer a niche but a reality. The supply has expanded, the technology has matured, and several brands have made their mark. However, mass adoption is not yet in sight.

• A wider, but still dominated, offer: Samsung remains the undisputed leader with its Galaxy Z Fold and Flip, but the competition is structuring. Google offers a quality Pixel Fold, Motorola is betting on design and compactness with its Razr, Honor stands out with its thin and powerful Magic V3, and Oppo innovates. Xiaomi and Huawei are also present, although their distribution is limited in Europe, particularly due to the absence of Google services for Huawei.
• More advanced technology: Foldable smartphones have gained in finesse, lightness, and robustness. The crease is less visible, the hinges are more efficient, waterproofing is offered on several models, and the screens are more resistant to mechanical constraints. The software interface has also adapted, notably with Samsung’s Flex mode and Android optimized for foldable screens. AI is increasingly present, improving photos, facilitating multitasking, and generating content.
• Slowing adoption: After a period of strong growth, the market is slowing down. High prices, the continuous improvements of classic models, and the lack of interest from the general public are holding back adoption. Analysts believe that the market could rebound if prices fall and if more accessible versions appear.

Recommended Models in 2025: Which One to Choose?

Here is a selection of the most interesting models in 2025, with their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make your choice.

Conclusion:

Foldable smartphones have evolved considerably. The 2025 models are more refined, more durable, and offer well-designed software experiences. They offer definite potential for multitasking, reading comfort, and compactness.

However, these devices are still aimed at a specific audience. High prices, the perfectibility of durability, and compromises on certain points (battery life, weight, updates) can deter widespread adoption.

In short: If you are curious, have a significant budget, and want to explore a new way of using your smartphone, the current models are worth a look. If you are looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable device, it may be best to opt for a more classic format, at least for the moment. The future is foldable, but it is not for everyone yet.