Foldable smartphones are gaining attention for their innovative designs and enhanced durability. Brands like Honor, Samsung, and Google have been leading the way in improving the functionality of these futuristic devices.
The trend towards thinner and lighter foldables with expansive fold-out screens has captured the interest of tech enthusiasts. Samsung recently teased a tri-fold device featuring three screens that unfold into a large tablet-style display, while rumors suggest Apple may introduce a folding iPhone in the near future, further fueling the appeal of this technology.
Despite the growing popularity of foldables, a cautionary note about their resale value has emerged. According to SellCell, a trade-in platform, foldable phones may lose their value more rapidly than traditional smartphones. SellCell’s data indicates that foldable devices can depreciate by up to 15.4% more within the first six months of release compared to non-foldable flagships.
The depreciation rates for foldables remain high over time as well, with an average loss of about 62.3% of their value within the first six months and 71.1% after 18 months. In contrast, traditional smartphones experience a lower depreciation rate, highlighting the challenge foldables face in maintaining their value.
Samsung, a key player in the foldable market, has seen its foldable devices experience a steeper decline in value compared to its standard Galaxy S series phones. The rapid decrease in value of foldables is attributed to several factors, including their novelty in the market, perceived reliability issues, higher repair costs for foldable screens, and the established demand for traditional smartphones.
While foldables offer a glimpse into the future of technology, they are still considered early-adopter products when it comes to value retention. Consumers should be mindful of the potential value depreciation of foldables when considering a trade-in or resale.
