In response to Apple’s aggressive push, Samsung has announced the imminent launch of its Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition (SE). (Image courtesy of Samsung Electronics)
SEOUL. 19 (Korea Bizwire) –The battle for supremacy in the global smartphone market has intensified, with Apple’s recent release of the iPhone 16 series bringing it within striking distance of long-time leader Samsung.
Industry analysts suggest that the new camera button on the iPhone 16 has resonated with users, potentially driving a significant increase in sales starting from the fourth quarter of this year.
Adding to the pressure on Samsung is the anticipation surrounding Apple’s upcoming budget-friendly iPhone SE 4, slated for release in early next year. This combination of high-end and mid-range offerings has left Samsung’s market position increasingly precarious.
In response to Apple’s aggressive push, Samsung has announced the imminent launch of its Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition (SE). On October 17, Samsung’s newsroom posted a teaser video titled “On October 21, a New Galaxy Will Be Unveiled,” hinting at the release of the Galaxy Z Fold SE.
The company is expected to reveal detailed specifications and images on Samsung.com on October 21, with the product launch scheduled for October 25.
According to foreign media reports, the Galaxy Z Fold SE is rumored to be approximately 10.6mm thick when folded and 4.9mm when unfolded. The internal display is expected to measure 8 inches, while the external display could be 6.5 inches, both larger than its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Industry analysts suggest that the new camera button on the iPhone 16 has resonated with users, potentially driving a significant increase in sales starting from the fourth quarter of this year. (Image courtesy of Apple)
This rapid product launch, coming just three months after the release of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, underscores Samsung’s urgency in countering Apple’s momentum.
Market research firm Canalys reports that in the third quarter, Samsung narrowly maintained its lead in global smartphone shipments with an 18% market share, with Apple also claiming 18% but falling short by a fraction of a percentage point.
The gap between the two tech giants has significantly narrowed compared to the same period last year. Canalys notes that Apple achieved record third-quarter sales, driven by strong performance in North America and Europe, coinciding with the replacement cycle of devices sold during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking ahead to the first half of next year, several factors could further boost Apple’s sales. The stabilization of Apple’s AI system, Apple Intelligence, and support for additional languages are expected to increase demand for the iPhone 16.
Moreover, the forthcoming budget-friendly iPhone SE 4 is widely anticipated to be a game-changer in the smartphone market, particularly in emerging markets like India, where it could drive sales alongside older iPhone models.
An industry insider commented, “Apple’s foray into the budget market, while maintaining its premium offerings, poses a clear threat to Galaxy’s market position.”
The battle for supremacy in the global smartphone market has intensified, with Apple’s recent release of the iPhone 16 series bringing it within striking distance of long-time leader Samsung. (Yonhap News TV)
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
