Samsung unveils compact foldable phone, 5G Galaxy S to fend off Apple, Huawei
- Samsung’s second attempt at a folding phone after a delayed roll-out last year comes as the South Korean firm fends off rivals Apple and Huawei
- Huawei has only released its own folding phones in China, and Apple has yet to release a 5G iPhone of any kind
Samsung Electronics on Tuesday unveiled a foldable smartphone shaped like a large make-up compact and put 5G mobile network capabilities into all of its other flagship devices as it strives to retain the mantle of biggest global phone company.
Samsung’s second attempt at a folding phone after a delayed roll-out last year comes as the South Korean firm fends off its traditional rival in the premium smartphone market, Apple, along with ascendant Chinese makers such as Huawei that have eaten into its sales in China and Europe.
Analysts see the folding screen as a nod to fashion-focused consumers, while the 5G phones aim to give Samsung technology bragging rights over Apple.
The Galaxy Z Flip, with folding glass, starts as a large square when closed and expands to look like most smartphones. It will start at US$1,380 and be available from Friday in purple, gold and black, executives said in San Francisco.