The Samsung Galaxy Note series concluded with the Note 20 lineup’s unveiling in 2020. This marked the end of the series due to diminished sales and a strategic shift towards foldable smartphones. Samsung reintroduced the Note-exclusive features through the Galaxy S23 Ultra, a premium addition to the Galaxy S series.
Read: PlayStation Plus getting massive price hikes in South Africa
At the IFA 2023 event, Samsung disclosed that its foldable devices have achieved impressive sales, surpassing the annual figures of the Note series in Europe. While specific numbers for the latest Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 models weren’t confirmed, the focus was on European sales. Global foldable device sales remain undisclosed, awaiting a future update.
During the Galaxy Note series’ later stages, sales dwindled, and demand continually declined quarter after quarter. Despite the strong start of the Note 20 series with record-breaking initial sales in select countries, the lineup struggled.
One evident factor contributing to this shift is the broader appeal of foldable smartphones compared to the specialized nature of Note devices centred around stylus-based notetaking. While Note features were incorporated into the Galaxy S23 Ultra and other Ultra models, the Galaxy Z series offered enhanced versatility. The compact Flip 5 fits comfortably in pockets and bags, while the Fold 5 functions as both a tablet and smartphone, supporting the S Pen stylus. However, integrating the pen into the device without compromising design and features remains a challenge for Samsung.
Samsung’s pioneering role in foldable smartphones maintains its global prominence, despite increasing competition with innovative technologies from other manufacturers. Notably, HONOR’s Magic V2 stands out as the thinnest and lightest foldable, eliminating crease issues. Xiaomi and OPPO are also strong contenders in the foldable market, with OPPO being the sole provider of flip phones in the UK. Google’s Pixel Fold, introduced recently, emerges as a significant competitor in terms of market presence. As the industry evolves, Samsung remains at the forefront, navigating the changing landscape of smartphone preferences.
