Foldable smartphones are no longer a futuristic concept — they’re rapidly becoming the next major chapter in smartphone evolution. As of November 2025, global and Indian markets alike are witnessing a surge in foldable and flip-style devices, blending portability, durability, and style.
With advancements in hinge engineering, ultra-thin flexible AMOLED panels, and improved crease resistance, 2025 marks the year foldables finally start to feel mainstream. Major brands including Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Oppo, and Vivo have refined their designs and are now focusing on making these devices more accessible to Indian buyers.
Let’s break down what’s shaping this trend, which models are leading, and when the next wave of foldables will land in India.
The Rise of Foldables in 2025
In the past, foldable phones were expensive and delicate. But the industry’s rapid evolution has turned them into durable, everyday devices with cutting-edge materials and smart hinge systems.
According to IDC India, foldable shipments grew by 87% year-on-year in 2025, signalling strong consumer interest, particularly in the ₹60,000–₹1,00,000 premium segment.
The global market now sees foldables as a style-meets-productivity tool, while in India, they’re increasingly viewed as a status-driven alternative to traditional flagships.
Verdict: Foldables have transitioned from novelty to mainstream, and 2025 is the year Indian buyers are truly taking notice.
Key Innovations in Hinge Technology
The hinge is the heart of every foldable phone, and 2025 brings major upgrades in strength, weight, and flexibility.
The new generation of hinges focuses on:
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Waterdrop-style folds: Reduce screen crease visibility.
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Carbon fibre and titanium alloys: Lower weight and boost durability.
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Dual-axis rotation mechanisms: Offer smoother folding and longevity.
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Dust resistance: IPX8-rated hinges in flagship models.
Samsung has perfected its Flex Hinge system on the Galaxy Z Fold6, now allowing nearly flat folding with minimal gap. Oppo and OnePlus, meanwhile, are using “UltraArc” hinge tech, rated for over 500,000 folds.
Verdict: 2025 hinge systems make foldables practical for long-term, daily use.
Ultra-Thin Displays and Durability
Another major advancement is the use of UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) combined with flexible AMOLED panels that can now withstand over 200,000 folds without visible damage.
Recent breakthroughs include:
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Gorilla Glass Flex protection for cover screens.
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Thinner bezels and integrated stylus support.
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Improved anti-reflective coatings for outdoor use.
The Vivo X Fold3, OnePlus Open 2, and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 are excellent examples of how thin and premium modern foldables have become — many are now under 11 mm when folded, rivaling traditional slab phones.
Verdict: Durability concerns are fading; modern foldables are as sturdy as most premium smartphones.
Top Foldable and Flip Phones of 2025 (India & Global)
| Model | Type | Display | Processor | Expected India Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 | Fold | 7.6″ inner, 6.3″ cover | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 | ₹1,59,999 |
| OnePlus Open 2 | Fold | 7.8″ inner, 6.5″ outer | Snapdragon 8 Gen3 | ₹1,39,999 |
| Motorola Razr 50 Ultra | Flip | 6.9″ inner, 3.6″ cover | Snapdragon 8 Gen3 | ₹94,999 |
| Oppo Find N5 Flip | Flip | 6.8″ inner, 3.26″ cover | Dimensity 9300 | ₹89,999 |
| Vivo X Fold3 | Fold | 8.0″ inner, 6.5″ outer | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 | ₹1,49,999 |
These devices represent the latest generation of foldables, balancing style, function, and innovation.
Verdict: Foldables are now competing not just in design but in performance — no longer compromised devices.
Foldable Phones in India: Growing Accessibility
Just two years ago, foldables in India were niche, sold primarily online or through select stores. In 2025, availability has expanded significantly.
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Samsung leads the market with nearly 60% share, offering wide retail access.
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OnePlus and Oppo are now selling foldables through both Nexa and Reliance Digital networks.
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Vivo and Motorola are focusing on offline experience zones across metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.
The segment is also seeing price rationalisation, with several models expected to launch under ₹80,000 by mid-2026.
Verdict: Foldables are no longer “luxury only” — they’re becoming aspirational yet attainable for upper mid-range buyers.
Performance and Battery Improvements
Foldables have often faced criticism for battery life, but 2025 models are addressing that effectively.
Improvements include:
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4,800–5,200 mAh dual-cell batteries in fold models.
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65W–100W fast charging with improved heat control.
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AI-based adaptive refresh rates to save power.
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Optimised OS performance via Android 15 foldable frameworks.
Devices like the OnePlus Open 2 can now deliver 7+ hours of screen-on time, while Samsung’s Fold6 manages efficient thermal handling even during multitasking.
Verdict: Battery efficiency and performance tuning have reached reliable, flagship-level stability.
Software Optimisation and Foldable Apps
Foldable phones now benefit from dedicated Android 15L optimisations and improved app continuity across inner and cover displays.
Software refinements include:
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Multi-window drag-and-drop support.
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Taskbar-style navigation for improved productivity.
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Split-view optimised apps for Gmail, YouTube, and Instagram.
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AI Smart Resize automatically adjusts UI for folded or unfolded modes.
Brands are partnering with Google and Meta to ensure popular apps utilise the extra screen real estate efficiently.
Verdict: Foldables have matured beyond hardware — their software is now truly adaptive and intuitive.
The “Budget Foldable” Segment
The next big phase of this trend will be budget foldables, targeting the ₹40,000–₹60,000 bracket by late 2026.
Early reports suggest that Samsung, Tecno, and Infinix are already developing affordable foldable prototypes for emerging markets like India.
These devices are expected to feature:
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Smaller external screens
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Mid-range processors like Dimensity 8300 or Snapdragon 7 Gen3
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Plastic OLED displays instead of glass
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Simplified hinge mechanisms for durability and cost control
Verdict: Affordable foldables will accelerate mass adoption in India’s mid-tier market.
Future Outlook: Foldables in India (2026–2027)
The next two years will see Indian buyers gain access to foldables across all price tiers. By 2027, experts predict:
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20+ foldable models available in India.
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Entry of budget foldables under ₹50,000.
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More robust resale and warranty coverage.
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Increased domestic assembly by brands like Samsung and OnePlus.
Verdict: Foldables are becoming a sustainable segment in India’s smartphone ecosystem — not a passing fad.
Final Verdict
The foldable phones trend in 2025 demonstrates how far innovation has come since the early creased screens of 2019. With improved hinge durability, ultra-thin flexible displays, and growing software maturity, foldables are no longer experimental — they’re premium productivity tools ready for everyday users.
As Indian availability widens and prices drop, 2026 could be the year foldables become mainstream, symbolising both innovation and status.
Overall Verdict: Foldables in 2025 combine cutting-edge technology with lifestyle appeal — and India is poised to be their fastest-growing market next year.
FAQs
Which foldable phone is best in India right now?
The OnePlus Open 2 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 currently lead with top-tier displays, performance, and hinge reliability.
Are foldable phones durable in 2025?
Yes. Modern hinges and UTG protection have significantly improved durability, with most rated for 500,000 folds or more.
Will foldable phones get cheaper in India?
Yes. By late 2026, “budget foldables” are expected to enter the ₹40,000–₹60,000 range.
Do foldables support 5G in India?
All current foldables support dual 5G SIMs and are compatible with major Indian networks.
Which brand dominates the foldable market in India?
Samsung leads with over 60% market share, followed by OnePlus and Oppo.
Are foldables suitable for productivity?
Yes. With multi-window multitasking and improved app continuity, foldables are ideal for work and entertainment alike.
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