Foldable smartphones have gained significant attention for their innovative design and improved usability. Recent models from Honor, Samsung, and Google have showcased advancements in durability and functionality, attracting tech enthusiasts worldwide.
The trend of foldables gaining popularity is evident with devices becoming sleeker and lighter, featuring expansive folding screens akin to a book’s unfolding pages. The introduction of tri-fold devices, such as Samsung’s latest innovation, offering a tablet-style display from three screens, has further fueled excitement in the tech community. Speculations of Apple entering the foldable phone market with a potential folding iPhone next year add to the anticipation surrounding this evolving technology.
While the appeal of foldables continues to grow, potential buyers are cautioned about the devices’ resale value. According to SellCell, a trade-in platform, foldable phones may experience faster depreciation compared to traditional smartphones. Data suggests that foldables could lose up to 15.4% more of their value within the first six months post-release, showcasing a significant difference in short-term value retention.
SellCell’s analysis reveals that, on average, foldable devices depreciate by approximately 62.3% within six months, surpassing the 49.8% depreciation rate of traditional flagship models. Over an 18-month period, foldables tend to lose around 71.1% of their value, whereas non-foldable smartphones see a depreciation of 60.7%, indicating a long-term value difference of 10.4%.
Despite the growing demand for foldable phones, Samsung faces challenges concerning price drops. SellCell’s findings suggest that Samsung’s foldable devices experienced a more substantial decline in value, with a 63.7% loss within the first six months compared to 48.3% for the standard Galaxy S series.
The rapid decline in foldable phone values can be attributed to several factors, as explained by SellCell. Foldables are relatively new in the market, making them less familiar and perceived as riskier purchases compared to traditional smartphones. Repairing foldable screens is notably costlier than standard displays, making second-hand foldable models less appealing for resale or trade-ins.
While foldables represent the future of technology, consumers and resellers currently favor traditional smartphones for their reliability, ease of refurbishment, predictable resale values, and established demand. The early stages of foldable phone adoption indicate a lower value retention compared to standard models, emphasizing the importance of considering long-term value when investing in these cutting-edge devices.
In conclusion, while foldable smartphones offer exciting features, buyers should be mindful of the potential decrease in resale value compared to traditional smartphones.
