Following the steps of Samsung and Huawei, Xiaomi and Oppo have also reportedly plans to develop foldable smartphones, Korea-based ET News reports.

Xiaomi and Oppo have been seeking support from materials and components suppliers with goals to launch their foldable models in 2019, according to the report.

While Huawei is reportedly to use flexible panels from BOE Technology for its foldable smartphones, Xiaomi and Oppo are likely to team up with BOE, Visionox, or LG Display for the supply of flexible panels, the report says.

Xiaomi also aims to become a fast mover instead of a follower in the segment by kicking off the commercial production of its foldable smartphones immediately after the product debut, targeting the domestic market in China with affordable prices, the report added.

Huawei is also expected to trump Samsung to unveil the world's foldable smartphone, said the report.

Samsung's foldable models are likely to be pricey, in the range of KWR2-3 million (US$1,788-2,652), and those from China's makers are likely to be available at KWR1-1.5 million, ET News claims.