In a significant move for the Indian smartphone industry, the homegrown brand Ai+ has officially announced its entry into the foldable smartphone segment. The company, under the leadership of former Realme India chief Madhav Sheth, revealed its first flip-style foldable, the NovaFlip, with a confirmed launch window in the first quarter of 2026.
NovaFlip: A New Contender in the Foldable Arena
Ai+, a brand owned by NxtQuantum, is setting its sights on making foldable technology more accessible. The company has confirmed that the NovaFlip will be aggressively priced under Rs 40,000, a segment that currently sees limited competition for foldable devices. This strategic pricing could potentially democratize the foldable form factor for a wider Indian audience.
The announcement marks a rapid expansion for Ai+, which only entered the market in July of this year with two budget smartphones, the Pulse and Nova 5G. The NovaFlip is part of the company's broader flagship Nova series strategy, which will also include models like the Nova Pro and Nova Ultra. Ai+ has also hinted at future plans to launch a book-style foldable device.
Software and User Experience Focus
A key highlight of the NovaFlip, according to the company, will be its software experience. The device will run on NxtQuantum OS out of the box, a software layer designed specifically for foldables. Ai+ claims the OS will "adapt intelligently" between the phone's folded and open states, with core functionalities optimized for use even when the device is closed.
In a move likely to appeal to privacy-conscious users, Ai+ has made strong claims about the software's cleanliness. The NovaFlip is promised to have "zero pre-loaded bloatware" and no invasive trackers, giving users complete control over their personal data. This approach differentiates it from many mainstream smartphones that come bundled with third-party applications.
Leadership Vision and Market Strategy
Madhav Sheth, CEO of Ai+ Smartphone and Founder of NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, explained the rationale behind entering the flip phone segment. He stated that flip smartphones bring back elements users genuinely miss, such as "compactness, physical interaction, and a sense of control." Sheth sees a blend of nostalgia and modern utility, addressing a desire for devices that are easier to carry and less demanding of constant attention.
While detailed hardware specifications like the processor, display, and camera setup are still under wraps, the confirmed price point and launch timeline set clear expectations. Consumers interested in the device will have to wait a few more months for its commercial availability in early 2026.
This announcement positions Ai+ as one of the first Indian smartphone brands to seriously challenge the foldable market, which has been dominated by global giants like Samsung and Motorola. The success of the NovaFlip could pave the way for more localized innovation in the premium device segment.
