Are flip phones no longer fashionable? Book-style foldables could be to blame, experts say

Flip phones, once a symbol of style and nostalgia, may be a thing of the past according to recent market trends. Samsung's attempt to revive the clamshell-style foldable with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and its cheaper counterpart, the Galaxy Z Flip FE, have not seen a successor. Counterpoint Research, a leading market analysis firm, suggests that Original Equipment Manufacturers are rapidly abandoning flip-style foldables, instead focusing on productivity-oriented, "book-style" models.

This shift in consumer preference is due to the trade-offs experienced with flip-style foldables, including reduced battery life, thermals, and camera optics. As for the future, book-style devices are projected to capture 65 to 76 percent of total foldable shipments, up from 52 percent previously. The decline in flip-style foldables is attributed to users wanting more screen space and multi-app workflows, which is better supported by the larger "book-style" devices.

The industry effect has also played a role, with AI and Apple's Generative AI tools favoring more canvas space, a need fulfilled by book-style hybrids. Additionally, leaks of a widescreen 'iPhone Fold' are pushing Android OEMs to align their development budgets with Apple's expected direction, leaving little incentive for flip-style foldables.