Foldable Phones Become Mainstream in China Markets Today

Let’s be real — foldable phones used to feel like sci-fi gadgets. But fast forward to 2024, and foldable phones are no longer niche experiments. In China, they’ve officially gone mainstream, with sales booming and innovation accelerating. As someone who’s tested nearly every model over the past two years, I can tell you: this isn’t just a trend. It’s a full-on mobile revolution.

According to Counterpoint Research, China accounted for over 70% of global foldable phone shipments in Q1 2024. That’s massive. Brands like Huawei, Honor, and Xiaomi aren’t just competing — they’re pushing boundaries in design, durability, and pricing.

So what changed? Three things: price drops, better build quality, and killer software optimization. The average selling price of foldables in China has dropped from $1,800 in 2021 to under $1,000 today. That’s made them accessible beyond early adopters.

Huawei vs. Xiaomi vs. Honor: Who’s Winning?

I’ve put together a quick comparison of the top three models dominating China’s market right now:

Notice anything? Foldable phones are now as durable as flagships, with some even offering IPX8 water resistance. And battery life? The Honor Magic V2 lasts over 13 hours on a single charge — that’s real-world mixed usage, not lab magic.

But here’s where it gets interesting: Huawei still leads in brand loyalty and ecosystem integration, especially with its HarmonyOS. However, Xiaomi and Honor are catching up fast with lighter designs and aggressive pricing.

Why Chinese Consumers Are All In

It’s not just about cool tech. Foldables now solve actual problems. Need a tablet-sized screen for WeChat meetings but hate carrying two devices? Done. Want a phone that feels premium but stands out in a sea of glass bricks? Check.

JD.com reported a 210% year-on-year increase in foldable sales during the 2024 Spring Festival shopping season. Offline stores in cities like Shenzhen and Hangzhou say over 30% of high-end phone buyers now consider foldables as their primary choice.

And let’s talk longevity. Early models had crease issues and fragile hinges. Not anymore. Most 2024 foldables are rated for over 500,000 folds — that’s more than 10 years of daily use.

If you’re on the fence, my advice? Visit a store and hold one. The experience is transformative. Once you go big and bendy, going back to flat feels… limiting.

For deeper insights into which model fits your lifestyle, check out our ultimate guide to choosing the best foldable smartphone in China.