Google was expected to announce or release a Pixel Fold phone in 2021.
“Not in 2021 and reportedly not in the first half of 2022.”
But what, specifically, gave Samsung an edge?
Onur Binay / Unsplash
Samsung
DSCC’s report points to several weaknesses in the Pixel Fold’s rumored specifications.
The Pixel Fold was also unlikely to use a display technology called color filter on encapsulation (CoE).
This technology reduces the thickness and power consumption of the display found in Samsung’s latest folding phones.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3.Samsung
This would put the Pixel Fold at a disadvantage in battery life.
Alone, none of Google Pixel Fold’s shortcomings seem worth canceling the project.
Many of the Chinese brands are expected to have more than one model in 2022.
The Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold.Xiaomi
It now seems other smartphone manufacturers will be the first to take advantage of it.
That will likely include new folding phones from Chinese brands that will go toe-to-toe with Samsung.
“Many of the Chinese brands are expected to have more than one model in 2022.”
These brands include Huawei, Honor, Oppo, Vivo, andXiamoi.
Though not major players in North America, these brands have a reputation for cutting-edge smartphones.
The Huawei Mate XS and Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold are already competitive with Samsung folding phones in some areas.
Supply chain reports hint Chinese brands will fight Samsung by flanking it from both sides.
Young says a larger display could do more than increase display size when the phone is open.
It might allow for a larger, more functional cover display.
Folding phone fans can take solace in this new competition.
