The Future Is Foldable: What’s Next After Foldable Phones?
Foldable phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Huawei Mate X, have become mainstream, blending the convenience of a phone with the functionality of a tablet. Now, in 2025, the technology is evolving, promising to transform other devices and industries. This blog explores what’s next for foldable tech, focusing on laptops, tablets, and beyond, and how it might reshape our interaction with technology.
What’s Next After Foldable Phones?
Foldable technology is moving into new territories, offering exciting possibilities for users seeking versatility and portability.
Foldable Laptops
Foldable laptops are already here, providing a blend of laptop and tablet functionality. The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition 14 (2025) is a premium option with a 14″ OLED display, Intel Core Ultra 7 processors, up to 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, ideal for high-performance needs. Meanwhile, Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design features an 18″ display when unfolded (13″ when folded), powered by HarmonyOS 5, and is designed for users wanting a large screen in a compact form, though availability may be limited due to geopolitical factors.
Foldable Tablets
While foldable tablets are less common, Samsung is rumoured to be working on a foldable tablet for 2025, potentially building on its foldable phone expertise. Amazon is also developing a foldable tablet, expected around 2026, which could integrate with its ecosystem like Kindle and Fire TV, offering unique features for users.
Other Applications
Beyond laptops and tablets, foldable tech is being explored in wearables, like smartwatches with foldable screens for larger displays, and automotive displays for flexible infotainment systems. Even home appliances, such as foldable TVs, could save space when not in use.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While promising, foldable devices face challenges like durability under repeated folding and battery life, given the power demands of flexible displays. Software also needs to evolve for seamless transitions between folded and unfolded states. However, as these issues are addressed, foldable tech is likely to become more affordable and widespread, transforming how we use technology.
Survey Note: Detailed Analysis of Foldable Technology in 2025
This section provides a comprehensive overview of foldable technology’s evolution beyond phones, based on current trends and developments as of July 12, 2025. It expands on the direct answer, offering a detailed examination for tech enthusiasts and professionals, with a focus on laptops, tablets, and emerging applications.
Background and Evolution
Foldable phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Huawei Mate X, have transitioned from niche gadgets to mainstream, driven by flexible OLED displays and durable hinges. The technology, initially a sci-fi concept, is now maturing, with advancements in materials like ultra-thin glass and polymers enhancing durability. Manufacturing costs are decreasing, making foldable tech more accessible, and the focus is shifting to improving battery life and reducing screen creases.
Foldable Laptops: Current Landscape
Foldable laptops represent a significant leap, offering portability and versatility. Two notable examples from 2025 include:
- Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition 14 (2025): This premium convertible laptop features a 14″ OLED display with options for 2880×1800 at 120Hz or 3840×2400 at 60Hz, both covering 100% DCI P3. It’s powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 256V or 258V processors (8 cores/8 threads, up to 4.8GHz), with RAM options of 16GB or 32GB LP-DDR5x 8533MHz and storage up to 1TB M.2 2242 PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD. Battery life reaches 15.1 hours for video playback, and it includes a 1440p webcam with Windows Hello face unlock. Ports include 1 USB-A, 3 USB-C (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB4 Gen 2×2), and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This device is ideal for high-performance users, with a sleek design and excellent display quality. Source: RTINGS.com
- Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design: Launched in May 2025, this foldable laptop features an 18″ dual-layer LTPO OLED display when unfolded (13″ when folded), with a 3.3K resolution (3296 x 2472 pixels unfolded, 2472 x 1648 pixels folded). It offers peak brightness of 1600 nits, a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and P3 color gamut, powered by HarmonyOS 5 and likely the Kirin X90 processor. Weighing 1.16 kg and measuring 7.3mm thick when unfolded, it’s a luxury device priced at around $3,300 for the 32GB + 1TB model, with a 74.69 Wh battery and an ultra-thin 5mm wireless keyboard. Availability is currently limited to China, with potential expansion to India by late 2025, reflecting geopolitical constraints. Source: GSMArena.com
These devices highlight the trend toward foldable laptops, offering users the ability to switch between laptop and tablet modes, enhancing productivity and portability.
Foldable Tablets: Emerging Trends
Foldable tablets are less established but show promise. While no major releases were confirmed for 2025, rumours and developments suggest growth:
- Samsung’s Foldable Tablet: Reports indicate Samsung is planning a foldable tablet, potentially the Galaxy Z Fold Tab, with a 12.4-inch unfolded AMOLED display and improved hinge durability. It’s expected to leverage Samsung’s One UI for enhanced multitasking, bridging the gap between phones and laptops. Source: SammyGuru
- Amazon’s Foldable Tablet: Amazon is reportedly developing a foldable tablet for a 2026 or 2027 launch, likely integrating with its ecosystem (Kindle, Fire TV). This could offer unique features for e-reading and media consumption, though specifics are limited. Source: Tom’s Guide
Earlier concepts, like those shown by Samsung and LG at CES 2023, suggest foldable tablets could offer a tablet-like experience in a compact form, appealing to users needing portability and large screens for productivity.
Other Foldable Applications
Foldable technology is expanding into other areas, reflecting its versatility:
- Wearables: Smartwatches with foldable screens could offer larger displays for notifications or apps, folding away for comfort. This is still in early stages, with potential for integration into fitness trackers or AR glasses.
- Automotive Displays: Foldable screens in cars could provide flexible dashboards or infotainment systems, folding away to reduce distractions. Concept cars have demonstrated this, with potential for immersive in-car experiences as autonomous vehicles grow.
- Home Appliances: Foldable TVs, like LG’s rollable OLED models, could expand to cover walls for cinematic viewing or fold away for storage, saving space in homes. Foldable monitors for gaming or work are also emerging, offering portable, high-resolution displays.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the potential, foldable devices face hurdles. Durability is a key concern, as repeated folding can stress materials, potentially leading to wear over time. Battery life is another challenge, with flexible displays often requiring more power, as seen in the Lenovo Yoga 9i’s 75Wh battery needing optimisation for extended use. Software must also evolve, ensuring seamless transitions between folded and unfolded states, which is crucial for a positive user experience.
However, opportunities abound. As materials science advances, costs are decreasing, with foldable panels projected to see increased sales, making the technology more accessible. AI and software innovations, like AI-powered interface adjustments, could optimise foldable devices, enhancing battery management and user interfaces.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The future of foldable technology is unfolding rapidly, with laptops like the Lenovo Yoga 9i and Huawei MateBook Fold leading the charge and tablets from Samsung and Amazon on the horizon. Beyond consumer electronics, wearables, automotive, and home applications show promise, limited only by imagination. As challenges are addressed, foldable tech is set to become a staple, transforming how we interact with devices. The evidence suggests a bright, versatile future, with foldable technology poised to reshape our digital lives by 2025 and beyond.
