OnePlus has decided not to launch a foldable device in 2024, leaving Samsung virtually without competition in the field of foldable phones in the West.
The decision comes after the moderate success of the OnePlus Open, which had an elegant design, an excellent camera package, and good battery life, but fell short of effectively challenging devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which is expected to be launched soon.
Despite the fact that OnePlus had generated expectations with the possible launch of the Open 2, the company announced through its forums that it has chosen to freeze its plans for this category.
OnePlus has the option to compete with Samsung
This decision includes not only the Open 2 but also any new foray into the foldable device market this year, which means that Samsung will maintain its dominance almost unopposed.
One of the factors that have contributed to the perception of weakness in OnePlus’s strategy is OPPO’s entry into the market with the launch of the Find N5.
Although this model promises to be an interesting competitor, its limited availability may not significantly impact OnePlus’s position in North America.
The lack of a global launch for the Find N5, similar to what happened with the Open, leaves a gap that OnePlus seems unwilling to fill this time.
OnePlus’s decision to focus on other products instead of expanding its line of foldable devices could be detrimental in the competitive landscape. Furthermore, the lack of effective alternatives in the U.S. market against the Galaxy Z Fold 7 puts the brand in an unfavorable position.
The future of the foldable segment for OnePlus could depend on its strategic decisions in the coming years, especially considering that Samsung continues to advance in this lucrative market.