In the rapidly evolving world of mobile technology, foldable phones are pushing boundaries with designs that promise versatility and productivity, yet their high costs continue to hinder widespread adoption. Recent models like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series have become notably thinner, enhancing portability, but prices have climbed to new heights, often exceeding $1,800 for premium variants. According to a report from TechRadar, this paradox of sleeker builds paired with steeper tags raises questions about market viability, especially as competition intensifies from brands like Google and Huawei.

Analysts suggest that for foldables to gain traction, prices must drop swiftly—potentially by 20-30% in the next year—to appeal beyond early adopters. The same TechRadar analysis highlights how manufacturing advancements could enable this, with improved hinge mechanisms and flexible displays reducing production costs over time. However, even with price reductions, the real challenge lies in convincing business users, who prioritize reliability and integration with enterprise tools over novelty.

As foldable phones aim to bridge the gap between smartphones and tablets, their potential in professional settings becomes a focal point for industry observers, who note that features like multi-window multitasking could revolutionize on-the-go workflows for executives and field workers alike.

Business professionals often cite durability concerns, such as crease visibility and vulnerability to dust, as barriers to adoption. A piece from Tom’s Guide on the best foldable phones of 2025 emphasizes that while devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold offer impressive battery life and software optimizations, they still lag in ruggedness compared to traditional slabs. For corporate IT departments, this means higher repair costs and potential downtime, deterring bulk purchases.

Moreover, integration with business ecosystems remains uneven. Foldables excel in scenarios requiring large screens for presentations or data analysis, but compatibility issues with VPNs and secure apps persist. Insights from TechRadar reveal how users switching to foldables experience a paradigm shift in Android usage, with expanded screens enabling better multitasking, yet enterprise software hasn’t fully caught up, leaving gaps in productivity suites.

Amidst these hurdles, the entry of major players like Apple could catalyze change, as rumors swirl about an iPhone Fold that might redefine expectations for foldable durability and ecosystem synergy, potentially swaying skeptical business leaders.

Price sensitivity is particularly acute in the business sector, where return on investment trumps cutting-edge features. A forecast in TechRadar predicts a dip in foldable sales this year unless costs align more closely with high-end non-foldables, around $1,000-$1,200. If prices do fall rapidly, as TechRadar suggests is possible through economies of scale, it could open doors for fleet deployments in industries like finance and consulting.

Competition is another wildcard. With Samsung’s dominance slipping, per reports from SamMobile, newcomers are innovating on affordability. For instance, emerging models from Chinese manufacturers offer competitive specs at lower prices, potentially pressuring established brands to adjust. Yet, for business users, brand trust and after-sales support remain paramount, often favoring incumbents despite higher costs.

Looking ahead, the foldable market’s success may hinge on targeted enterprise features, such as enhanced security protocols and customizable interfaces, which could finally persuade CIOs that these devices are more than gimmicks but essential tools for modern workforces.

Ultimately, while technological refinements make foldables increasingly appealing, the path to mainstream business adoption demands not just price cuts but also proof of long-term value. As Euronews posits, 2026 could mark a turning point if Apple enters the fray, boosting overall market growth to 10% of premium handsets in Europe by 2028. Until then, industry insiders will watch closely as manufacturers balance innovation with pragmatism to win over the corporate crowd.