Samsung Electronics is actively encouraging owners of its Galaxy Note series to transition to its latest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. This initiative is evident through Samsung’s trade-in program, which offers substantial incentives for older Note devices, particularly the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra.
Trade-In Incentives for Galaxy Note Owners
Samsung’s trade-in program is designed to make the upgrade to foldable devices more appealing for Galaxy Note users. Notably, the five-year-old Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is valued at $600 in trade-in credit, matching the value assigned to newer models like the Galaxy S23 Ultra, S23+, and Z Flip 5. This valuation surpasses that of more recent devices, including the Galaxy S22 Ultra and the current year’s Galaxy S25, indicating Samsung’s strategic focus on transitioning Note users to its foldable lineup.
The Evolution from Galaxy Note to Foldable Devices
The Galaxy Note series, introduced in 2011, was renowned for its large screens and the S Pen stylus, catering to users seeking enhanced productivity. However, as smartphone designs evolved and screen sizes increased across various models, the distinctiveness of the Note series diminished. Samsung officially discontinued the Note line in 2020, with the Galaxy Note 20 being the final release. The company has since integrated the S Pen functionality into other flagship models, such as the Galaxy S Ultra series, and more recently, into its foldable devices.
Samsung’s Vision for Foldable Technology
Samsung’s emphasis on foldable smartphones aligns with its broader vision for the future of mobile technology. In 2022, Samsung’s mobile chief, Roh Tae-moon, projected that by 2025, foldable devices would constitute over 50% of the company’s premium smartphone shipments. He stated, Foldables will become the new standard of smartphones. This strategic direction underscores Samsung’s commitment to leading the foldable market and differentiating itself from competitors.
Market Performance and Consumer Adoption
Despite Samsung’s proactive efforts, the adoption of foldable smartphones has faced challenges. In 2023, the company experienced a decline in its share of the foldable market, dropping from 58% to 23%, as competitors like Oppo, Honor, and Huawei introduced compelling alternatives. This shift highlights the competitive nature of the foldable market and the need for continuous innovation to attract and retain consumers.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7: A New Era of Foldables
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents Samsung’s latest advancement in foldable technology. Announced on July 9, 2025, the device features a sleek, ultra-thin design measuring just 8.9mm when folded. It boasts dual AMOLED displays, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, and an enhanced camera system. Samsung has also committed to providing seven years of OS and security updates for the device. To make the transition more appealing, Samsung is offering up to $1,000 in trade-in credit and a free storage upgrade for pre-orders.
Conclusion
Samsung’s concerted efforts to encourage Galaxy Note owners to upgrade to its foldable devices reflect a strategic push to mainstream foldable technology. By offering substantial trade-in incentives and integrating beloved features like the S Pen into its foldable lineup, Samsung aims to retain its loyal customer base while attracting new users. As the smartphone market continues to evolve, Samsung’s focus on innovation and user experience positions it to lead in the foldable segment.
