The global smartphone industry has entered a new era with foldable devices becoming a regular part of premium lineups. Once considered experimental, foldables are now offered by major brands worldwide. In Pakistan, the category includes high-end models from Samsung, Tecno, Xiaomi, and soon vivo. However, with prices often exceeding PKR 300,000, their market potential remains uncertain.
Current Foldable Options in Pakistan
Samsung leads the market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series. The Galaxy Z Fold 6, priced above PKR 600,000, offers top-tier specs and a large foldable display. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 provides a compact design at a lower—but still premium—price point. Xiaomi’s Mix Flip combines flagship hardware with a sleek foldable design, while Tecno’s Phantom V Fold and Phantom V Flip deliver more budget-friendly foldables under PKR 500,000. Vivo is expected to launch the X Fold 5 at around PKR 600,000, placing it directly against Samsung’s high-end models and Apple’s iPhone Pro Max lineup.
Price and Specification Overview
| Model | Price (PKR) | Display Size | RAM | Battery | Rear Camera |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 | 604,999 | 7.6 inches | 12 GB | 4400 mAh | 12 MP |
| Tecno Phantom V Flip | 199,999 | 6.9 inches (cover 1.32 inches) | 8 GB | 4000 mAh | 64 MP |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 | 384,999 | 6.7 inches | 12 GB | 4000 mAh | 50 MP |
| Xiaomi Mix Flip | 399,999 | 6.86 inches | 12 GB | 4780 mAh | 50 MP |
| Tecno Phantom V Fold | 349,999 | 7.85 inches (sub 6.43 inches) | 12 GB | 5000 mAh | 50 MP |
| vivo X Fold 5 (expected) | ~600,000 | 8.03 inches | 16 GB | 6000 mAh | 50 MP |
Prices are approximate and may vary with market conditions.
Market Realities and Challenges
Pakistan’s smartphone market faces rising import costs, high taxes, currency depreciation, and economic slowdown. This makes ultra-premium devices, especially those above PKR 300,000, accessible only to a very small segment. Even among wealthier buyers, iPhones remain the most desirable due to brand prestige and high resale value—advantages that foldable Android phones have yet to match.
After-sales service is another concern. Foldables require specialised repair facilities for hinges and flexible displays, which are scarce in Pakistan. This increases perceived risk for potential buyers.
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Consumer Preferences and Global Comparison
Globally, Samsung dominates the foldable segment, with Huawei, Oppo, and vivo following. In many markets, carrier subsidies and instalment plans make foldables more affordable. Pakistan, however, is predominantly a cash purchase market, limiting accessibility. Additionally, delayed launches and higher prices due to import duties further hinder adoption.
The Road Ahead
For foldables to succeed in Pakistan, brands may need to reduce prices, offer trade-in deals, or introduce instalment plans. Consumer education could help, but affordability remains the main obstacle. Unless flagship foldables approach the PKR 350,000 range, they will remain a niche product for tech enthusiasts and early adopters.
At present, Pakistan’s ultra-premium market is dominated by Samsung foldables and Apple iPhones, leaving little room for new high-priced entrants like vivo.
