“Foldables are transforming and reshaping the mobile market, and Samsung is leading that evolution,” said TM Roh, President & Head of MX Business, Samsung Electronics

TM Roh talks about the popularity of foldable form factors, the mobile business in Southeast Asia and Oceania and the influence of young people on innovations

During a recent visit to Indonesia, TM Roh expressed confidence in the continued popularity of foldable smartphones worldwide. In addition to discussing trends in the mobile market, he spoke about the mobile business in Southeast Asia and the role of technology in shaping the future.

Unfolding the potential of foldable devices

TM Roh noted that Samsung’s foldable phones have redefined what is possible in the industry, as the Galaxy Note series did, and will continue to set new standards in mobile technology.

“Foldables are transforming and reshaping the mobile market. As a pioneer and leader of the foldable smartphones category, we are focused on delivering incredible foldable experiences that improve the everyday lives of our consumers,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ MX (Mobile eXperience) Business. “We will continue to develop the unique benefits of the Galaxy Foldables such as viewing on a big screen with a compact and durable device, taking photos and videos in Flex mode, multitasking on split screens with an S Pen and enjoying a unique user experience with the new foldable form factor. We will also improve the foldable device experience through partnerships with industry leaders, such as Google, to support more applications and services for foldable devices.”

The popularity of foldable form factors is expected to continue. In 2021, the global sales volume of foldable smartphones grew more than four times compared to 2020 and exceeded the market growth forecast by three times. The success of the Galaxy Z series is a testament to the increasing demand for foldable smartphones, with Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 sales in one month surpassing the cumulative sales of foldable phones in 2020.

Best-in-class mobile experiences for all smartphone users

Samsung mission statement to make the latest and greatest mobile technology more accessible, he said: “Samsung has been instrumental in laying the groundwork for a next-generation connectivity in 5G for more than a decade.I am committed to ensuring that consumers are equipped to take advantage of 5G connectivity. And I am confident that Samsung’s 5G devices will be the first choice for users in Southeast Asia and Oceania, as well as around the world.”

5G technology is an important factor for an integrated mobile experience with Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem, which revolves around the Galaxy smartphones as the hub. The ecosystem offers seamless experiences between the smartphone and multiple devices, such as products in the Galaxy Watch and Buds series, and even offers a PC-like experience with Galaxy tablets via Samsung Dex.

He said: “While we have consistently focused our efforts on improving the smartphone experience for users, we also recognize the growing demand for connected lifestyles. We are constantly innovating to improve and expand our ecosystem to empower Galaxy users with more convenience and help them achieve their ambitions.”

He also mentioned the diversity of the Southeast Asia and Oceania region, including developing markets where mid-tier smartphones remain important drivers for Samsung.

“By understanding the needs of our target consumers, we are able to maintain the affordability of our mid-tier smartphones while delivering a great mobile experience as we focus on strengthening the specifications of priority product features such as battery, memory, performance and 5G capabilities. In addition, several features of the flagship smartphones, such as the improved cameras, and dust and water resistance, have been extended to the Galaxy A series,” said TM Roh.

Shaping the future with innovative sustainability efforts

Samsung recognizes the role it plays in using technology as a good force and has Milky way for the planet putting commitment and sustainability at the heart of its innovations. “I always emphasize the importance of sustainability in everything we do, from the way we design, manufacture and recover materials throughout the product lifecycle to protect our planet.”

He also highlighted how Samsung has worked closely with a group of young inspiring changemakers committed to using technology to innovate for humanity and mobilize global communities through Generation17† The global partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) aims to promote the 17 Global Goals.

In February of this year, two generation17 young leaders from the Southeast Asia and Oceania region were first invited to participate in the global initiative: Tamara Dewi Gondo Soerijo from Indonesia, a founder of a social enterprise working to empower refugee women by providing upskilling opportunities, and Thuy Anh Ngo from Vietnam, who have a mobile app to educate the elderly about physical and mental health.

Dominated by a large population of young people, the Southeast Asia and Oceania region has seen rapid growth in the digital economy, driven by the aspirations, lifestyles and technological skills of young digital natives.

He said: “The reason we need to champion a more open world at Samsung is that our future requires it. Our younger consumers want authentic, personal experiences as a way to express themselves and create new opportunities. We are proud enabling a world where technology connects and inspires us all.”