# OPPO Allegedly Considering Withdrawal from its Foldable Phone Segment: Implications for the Market
The foldable smartphone sector has emerged as one of the most thrilling advancements in the smartphone realm over the past few years. What began as a specialized product with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series has evolved into a competitive arena with contributions from brands like Google, OnePlus, Huawei, Xiaomi, among others. Nonetheless, recent news points to the possibility that one significant player might be contemplating a pullout from the foldable phone segment, and that firm could be OPPO.
## The Evolution of Foldable Phones
Foldable devices have advanced remarkably since their introduction. Initially, Samsung was the key player in the market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models, but soon, various companies arose to join the fray. OnePlus, Google, Huawei, Vivo, Xiaomi, and TECNO have all launched foldable devices, each adding their unique innovations and styles. This rivalry has been advantageous for consumers, motivating brands to enhance their offerings and reduce prices.
For instance, OnePlus made a notable impact in the North American market with its inaugural foldable device, the **OnePlus Open**, a rebranded iteration of OPPO’s **Find N3**. The OnePlus Open was well-received for its expansive cover screen and multitasking capabilities, driving Samsung and Google to improve their own foldable models.
## OPPO’s Possible Departure from the Foldable Sector
In spite of the increasing appeal of foldable smartphones, a recent article by **Ma Guangyu** on **163.com** in China indicates that a major firm may refrain from launching a new foldable device in 2025. Although the report did not specify the company, speculation has focused on OPPO, OnePlus (which shares resources with OPPO), or Vivo.
Vivo has, on its side, persistently unveiled foldable devices, notably the **Vivo X Fold3** and **X Fold3 Pro** in 2024, both of which garnered positive feedback. This situation positions OPPO and OnePlus as the leading candidates for a potential exit from the foldable sector.
Since 2023, OPPO has not introduced a new foldable device, and OnePlus’ **Open Apex Edition**—an upgraded version of the OnePlus Open—was more of a minor enhancement than a new launch. Furthermore, OPPO scrapped plans for a **OnePlus Open 2**, choosing instead to discount the existing OnePlus Open while marketing the Apex Edition at a higher price.
## The Financial Aspects of the Decision
While the OnePlus Open and OPPO Find N3 received accolades from critics, the sales data presents a contrasting narrative. As reported by **Counterpoint Research**, neither OPPO nor OnePlus ranked among the top four companies in global foldable shipments in Q1 2024. Instead, **Huawei**, **Samsung**, **Honor**, and **Motorola** topped the foldable sales rankings.
This disappointing sales performance may be a pivotal factor in OPPO’s rumored plans to exit the foldable market. Despite the favorable reception of its devices, the financial prospects might not support ongoing investment in foldable technology, particularly in a landscape characterized by fierce competition and narrow profit margins.
## The Consequences for the Foldable Market
Should OPPO and OnePlus choose to exit the foldable market, it would deal a significant blow to competition, particularly in North America. OnePlus’ foray into the foldable arena pressured companies like Samsung and Google to innovate and enhance their offerings. For example, Samsung broadened the **Galaxy Z Fold 6** to align with consumer preferences, while Google drew inspiration from the OnePlus Open when conceptualizing the **Pixel 9 Pro Fold**.
Without the challenges posed by OPPO and OnePlus, there exists a concern that the pace of innovation in the foldable market might decelerate. Samsung and Google might find less motivation to initiate major transformations to their devices, potentially resulting in market stagnation.
## The Significance of Competition
Competition is vital in any sector, but it holds particular significance in the fast-paced smartphone landscape. When entities like OPPO and OnePlus roll out new features and designs, it compels other manufacturers to stay competitive. This dynamic fosters better products for consumers and propels the industry as a whole.
For instance, the **OnePlus Open** unveiled a multitasking feature called **Open Canvas**, which has subsequently been integrated into various other devices, including the **OnePlus Pad**. In the absence of competition from companies like OPPO and OnePlus, it’s conceivable that such innovations may never have reached the marketplace.
## The Prospects of Foldable Phones
While it remains uncertain if OPPO will officially withdraw from the foldable market, the potential departure of such a significant player would undeniably create a ripple effect. The foldable smartphone segment is still in its nascent phase, and the absence of a key competitor could hinder the momentum of innovation.
However, it’s also plausible that other companies will rise to occupy the gap left behind.
