Although foldable smartphones existed (as concepts and early prototypes) last year, almost every top OEM in the industry have now jumped on the bandwagon. While some manufacturers are still on the drawing board conceptualizing their upcoming foldable offering, a number of OEMs are in the trial phase of their foldable project and very few have actually rolled out something tangible.
Below, we take a look at the brands and companies working on foldable smartphones, what they have done so far, and how far their foldable phone project is from hitting the market. Additionally, we will also highlight some of the problems each manufacturer is faced and how they are dealing with it.
1. Royole
Royole is a California-based Chinese company, the first-ever company to complete and unveil a smartphone with foldable display. The device, Royole FlexPai (from $1,300), was released in November 2018 but only as a prototype which Royole dubbed the “Developer Edition”. The final and stable version was dubbed the “Consumer Edition” and the company estimated that it would take about 60-90 day to ship to consumers.
Interestingly, the OEM fulfilled its promise as, according to Android Headlines , it began shipping the foldable FlexPai smartphone to customers last month (March 2019) just like it earlier estimated. So far, no consumer or reviewer has come forward to complain about the consumer edition of the Royole FlexPai. The Developer edition of the device, on the other hand, had a lot of “faults”.
According to this report by NotebookCheck , the Royole FlexPai didn’t receive a lot of positive feedbacks from early users of the foldable device when it was first announced. The Royole FlexPai was called all sort of derogatory names. Generally, users of the device were: annoyed [because it doesn’t fold flat], unimpressed [at the device’s form factor as a phone], and unamazed [because the phone completely sacrifices usability in order to have a bendy screen].
Additionally, the software of the Royole FlexPai was also glitchy and terrible. At this moment though, it is unclear if Royole made appropriate changes to the (software and usability) complaints the Developer edition of its foldable phone received and implemented them on the final Consumer Edition before shipping them to consumers. I’m guessing they did but we’ll see.
2. Samsung
The Galaxy Fold (~$1,980) is Samsung’s first-ever smartphone with foldable form factor . The device is considered to be one of the most innovative piece of tech ever made by the South Korean giant. Currently, the Galaxy Fold is the only foldable phone with an “ Innie ” sort of design — i.e the foldable screen folds inwards.
The Galaxy Fold with a 7.3-inch Super AMOLED HDR10+, Android 9 Pie OS, Snapdragon 855 SoC, 12GB RAM, triple rear-camera setup and a dual front-facing camera was announced earlier this year in February. Scheduled for an April 26 official public launch in the US, China, and South Korea, Samsung, as usual, sent review units of the Galaxy Fold to tech journalists and media houses. And that was where the turmoil began.
A number of reviewers took to social media to reveal faults on the review units of their Galaxy Folds . While some of the faults were due to a defect in the folding mechanism of the display, majority of reviewers damaged the display of their Galaxy Folds because they removed a film (that looked like a disposable screen protector) from the screen of their device. Unbeknownst to them (and everybody else), the film wasn’t a screen protector but rather, a core component of the device’s foldable display.
To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks.
Samsung recalled the damaged reviewed units it earlier sent out and subsequently postponed the launch of the device. No new release date has been fixed though but Samsung says we should expect the device out in “the coming weeks”. That could be next week, two weeks, next month, or Whatever week Samsung says the Galaxy Fold ready.
3. Huawei
Hauwei’s foldable smartphone is dubbed the “ Mate X “. The device was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2019 and is the major rival to Samsung’s Galaxy Fold. When unfolded, the Huawei Mate X (~$2,600) opens into a square-shaped tablet with 8-inch 2480 x 2200 pixels display and when folded into a phone mode, the main display is a 6.6-inch 1148 x 2480 pixels screen. Depending on how you use it, the Huawei Mate X is either a big phone or a small tablet.
Foldable 5G smartphone: Huawei Mate X
The Mate X’s design is great, but unlike the Royole FlexPai and the Galaxy Fold, there isn’t any provision for front-facing cameras when the device is fully unfolded. This means you either have to turn the phone around or fold it into a phone to take selfies with quad-camera setup on the rear. Unfortunately, information is scant regarding the performance and strength of the foldable screen of the Mate X.
The OEM hasn’t sent out review units to tech journalists so this is as far as it goes with the Mate X. And while there are rumors that Huawei has pushed the launch of the device to September, the OEM maintains that the Mate X will be launched in June.
4. Xiaomi
If there’s any trend rocking the smartphone industry, you can trust Xiaomi not to be the last to jump such a trend. While the Chinese OEM doesn’t have any foldable smartphone out in the market, it has one in the works . And you should know, it’s way different from all foldable smartphone designs you have seen so far.
True, the double-fold idea is unique and fantastic but I have some reservations. I mean, it’s enough stress to “carefully ” fold a tablet into a phone once, now we have to do it twice? And, according to the teaser, I don’t think you can use the Xiaomi foldable device as a phone by folding only one side; both ends have to be folded and unfolded. Too much stress.
The double-fold technique aside, Xiaomi explains its foldable phone is gradually moving towards completion as it has solved a series of technical problems ranging from flexible folding screen technology to four-wheel drive folding shaft technology, flexible cover technology, and MIUI adaptation.
As per pricing and release date, GSMArena reports that Xiaomi plans to launch its foldable smartphone into the market sometime between April and June. And interestingly, the device will reportedly sell $999, half the price of Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.
Truthfully, every single manufacturer with foldable phones have all done beautiful, ground-breaking work. And while foldable phones might not climb up the same popularity (and adoption) scale as regular “unfoldable” phones we commonly use in our everyday life, it’s an interesting insight into what the future of the smartphone ecosystem would look like — a future rid of impossibilities.
Sodiq Olamide is a tech writer based in Nigeria, covering the latest reviews, how-tos, and news on consumer tech trends with a unique African perspective. Whether analyzing emerging technologies or offering practical guides, Sodiq brings a deep understanding of how technology shapes lives across the continent.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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