Introduction: The Sudden Pause That Shook the Foldable World
The tech community was stunned when OnePlus announced it won’t release a foldable phone in 2025, delaying the highly anticipated OnePlus Open 2. This decision marks a major strategic shift for the brand, which made waves in 2023 with its first foldable, the OnePlus Open—praised for its slim design, Hasselblad cameras, and competitive pricing.
But why would OnePlus step back just as the foldable market is heating up?
In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore:
✅ The Official Reasons Behind the Delay – What OnePlus & Oppo are planning
✅ Engineering & Market Challenges – Why foldables are harder than they seem
✅ How This Affects the Foldable Market – Samsung, Google, and Huawei’s advantage
✅ What’s Next for OnePlus? – Will the Open 2 arrive in 2026?
✅ Should You Wait or Buy Another Foldable? – Best alternatives right now
By the end, you’ll understand exactly why OnePlus made this move—and what it means for the future of foldables.
Why is OnePlus Delaying the Open 2? The Official Explanation
OnePlus confirmed in a June 2025 statement that it’s “reassessing its foldable strategy” and will not launch a foldable phone this year. Instead, the company will focus on “strengthening collaboration with Oppo”, its sister brand under BBK Electronics.
Key Reasons Behind the Decision:
- Avoiding Internal Competition
- Oppo is set to launch the Find N5 later this year, rumored to feature rollable display tech.
- OnePlus doesn’t want to cannibalize Oppo’s sales, especially in China, where Oppo dominates.
- Refining the Next Foldable
- The OnePlus Open (2023) was well-received, but Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google’s Pixel Fold 2 are pushing boundaries.
- OnePlus may be waiting for next-gen hinge tech, better durability, or AI integration.
- Supply Chain & Cost Challenges
- Foldables require expensive ultra-thin glass (UTG), custom hinges, and specialized software.
- By sharing R&D with Oppo, OnePlus can reduce costs and improve quality.
“We want to ensure our next foldable isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a leap forward.” – OnePlus Spokesperson
The Engineering Challenges of Foldables
1. Display Durability: The Biggest Hurdle
Foldable screens must survive 200,000+ folds (Samsung’s standard). But issues like:
- Screen creases (still visible on some models)
- UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) fragility
- Dust & water resistance challenges
…make foldables harder to perfect than slab phones.
2. Software Optimization
- Apps must adapt to multiple screen ratios.
- Multitasking features like split-screen and app continuity require deep Android integration.
3. The Cost Factor
- The OnePlus Open (2023) launched at 1,699∗∗—cheaperthanthe∗∗GalaxyZFold5(1,799) but still expensive.
- OnePlus may be waiting for component prices to drop before releasing a sequel.
How This Affects the Foldable Market
Samsung’s Dominance Grows
With no Open 2 in 2025, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 will face less competition. Samsung already holds ~70% of the foldable market (Counterpoint Research).
Google & Huawei Benefit
- The Pixel Fold 2 (expected late 2025) could attract OnePlus fans.
- Huawei’s Mate X5 is expanding globally, offering strong alternatives.
Oppo’s Find N5: The Dark Horse
Since OnePlus is letting Oppo lead foldables in 2025, the Find N5 could be a game-changer—rumored to feature:
- Rollable display tech (expanding screen)
- New Flexion hinge (less crease)
- AI-powered multitasking
What’s Next for OnePlus? 3 Possible Scenarios
1. A 2026 Comeback with a Revolutionary Foldable
- OnePlus could return with dual-folding or rollable tech.
- Might adopt Oppo’s self-healing display patents.
2. A More Affordable Foldable
- Targeting 1,200−1,400 to undercut Samsung.
- Could use last-gen chips to reduce costs.
3. Exiting Foldables Entirely
- If the market doesn’t grow as expected, OnePlus may focus on flagship slabs & AI phones.
Should You Wait for the OnePlus Open 2? Best Alternatives for 2025
If you wanted the Open 2, here are the best alternatives:
| Foldable | Why Consider It? | Price (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Z Fold 6 | Best overall foldable, great software | $1,799 |
| Google Pixel Fold 2 | Clean Android, best cameras | $1,699 |
| Oppo Find N5 | Most innovative (rumored rollable) | $1,599 |
| Honor Magic V3 | Thinnest foldable, great battery | $1,649 |
Verdict: If you need a foldable now, the Z Fold 6 or Pixel Fold 2 are safest. If you can wait, the Oppo Find N5 might surprise us.
Conclusion: OnePlus is Playing the Long Game
The OnePlus Open 2 delay isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a strategic retreat to avoid releasing a “me-too” foldable. By letting Oppo lead in 2025, OnePlus can:
- Save costs via shared BBK supply chains
- Leapfrog competitors with next-gen tech in 2026
- Avoid saturating its own market
For consumers, this means:
- Better foldables long-term
- But fewer choices in 2025
Final Thought: OnePlus’ “Never Settle” motto suggests it won’t return with a minor upgrade. When the Open 2 (or Open 3?) arrives, expect something revolutionary.
Where to Buy the Best Foldables Now
🔗 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Amazon)
🔗 Google Pixel Fold 2 (Best Buy)
🔗 Oppo Find N5 (Oppo Store)
More Foldable Insights:
- Samsung Z Fold 6 vs. Pixel Fold 2: Ultimate Comparison
- Are Foldables Worth It in 2025?
- Oppo’s Rollable Phone: Everything We Know
What do you think? Will you wait for the OnePlus Open 2? Let’s discuss below! 📩