Earlier today (7th March 2022), a new report surfaced online, which claimed that Vivo will be launching its first foldable smartphone next month. It also revealed the upcoming bendable device’s “butterfly” internal codename.
According to a Jiemian report, sources have revealed the foldable phone’s codename and April 2022 launch timeline. If this information is true, then Vivo would be the latest Chinese smartphone maker to launch a foldable handset, following the likes of the Honor Magic V and the OPPO Find N. These models were one of the newest foldable devices that were released in the Chinese market. So now, Vivo will be competing with the two brands as well as other companies that sell foldable models. Interestingly, we had recently reported on a Vivo X Fold, so this device might be the same model.
The sources close to the matter added that the upcoming foldable smartphone from the brand will feature a technological breakthrough with its hinge mechanism. But apart from this, it will also have innovations in core components and the device will rival Huawei and Samsung foldable models as well in terms of performance. As per an IDC report, the foldable phone shipments in China alone is expected to reach 1.5 million units in 2021.
With the supply chain for these unique breed of smartphones becoming more established (for components like flexible screens, hinges, and UTG protective covers), this figure will likely grow even further. Analytics based firms have estimated that this year, the overall shipments will double year on year. So, it arrives as no surprise that Vivo is also entering the market as well.
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