Royole launched the FlexPai 2 in China on September 22, 2020, with a starting price of RMB 9,988 for the 8GB/256GB model. The outward-folding phone paired a 7.8-inch flexible display with a Snapdragon 865 processor and dual-mode 5G. The event was a China launch, not confirmation of a worldwide retail release.
What Royole launched
The FlexPai 2 was the successor to Royole’s original FlexPai, introduced in late 2018. Royole described that first device as the first commercially available foldable smartphone; the claim depends on how “commercially available” is defined. The second model kept the family’s outward-folding design while updating its processor, hinge and foldable-focused software. Royole’s account of the original phone and its FlexPai 2 plans provides the company’s framing of that history.
Royole had originally said it planned to announce the FlexPai 2 after withdrawing from Mobile World Congress in February 2020, then previewed a new flexible display and hinge in March. The phone was formally announced in September, later than the company’s earlier Q2 target. The March announcement described the preview and target; Royole’s September release announced the product and Chinese pricing.
Price and China availability
Royole’s announced Chinese starting price was RMB 9,988 for the 8GB RAM/256GB storage configuration. Launch coverage reported a 12GB/512GB version at RMB 11,588. Royole’s release rendered the base price as approximately US$1,427 at the time; another contemporary account used about US$1,470. The RMB prices are the more reliable way to compare the launch offers because dollar conversions vary with exchange rates and publication date. Gizmochina’s launch report also compared the base model with the Galaxy Z Fold2’s Chinese launch price of RMB 16,999.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems#1 Best Overall
- 💼 [PORTABLE] BoxWave Stylus Pouch Compatible With Royole FlexPai 2. Never lose your stylus again! Now you can bring your stylus along with your device in this HANDY pouch. 💬 Includes limited 3rd party tech support for your device (up to 3 inquiries via messaging) - not affiliated with or endorsed by Royole ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, ROYOLE FLEXPAI 2 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 📒 [EASY TO USE] Simply peel off the backing and stick the self-adhesive Sleeve onto any clean surface. You can put it on your case or your device itself! The tight, but elastic sleeve stretches so that you can slide your stylus in SECURELY and tightens so that it won't fall out!
- 👕 [SLIM AND SLEEK] At only 2mm thickness, the Stylus PortaPouch will stay out of your way while protecting your stylus.
- 💃 [SOPHISTICATED] Made with both elastic fabric and fashionable Leatherette to create this ELEGANT sleeve suitable for any occasion!
- 🌏 [VERSATILE AND UNIVERSAL] COMPATIBLE with any stylus. You can even use it as a pen holder.
The dates need separating: Royole announced the phone and said it was available in China on September 22, 2020; contemporary reporting said pre-orders were open and that general retail sales were scheduled to start at 10 a.m. on September 25. That reporting does not establish a subsequent worldwide rollout. Android Authority and TechRadar described its launch availability as China-only, with no confirmed global timetable.
FlexPai 2 specifications reported at launch
| Category | Launch specification |
|---|---|
| Display and shape | 7.8-inch flexible display when unfolded, 4:3 aspect ratio; outward-folding design. Contemporary reports described the folded display area as about 5.4 inches. |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865. |
| Connectivity | Dual-mode 5G. |
| Memory and storage | 8GB/256GB or a reported 12GB/512GB configuration. |
| Cameras | Launch specifications reported a 64MP main, 16MP ultrawide, 8MP 3x telephoto and 32MP selfie camera. |
| Software | Royole waterOS 2.0, described in Chinese launch coverage as based on Android Q/Android 10. |
| Battery and charging | Royole’s English release said 4,500mAh and USB-C fast charging. Other contemporary specifications listed 4,450mAh and 18W charging; the sources differ on capacity. |
| Colors | Cosmic Gray, Midnight Black and Sunrise Gold. |
| Hinge and durability | Royole’s “3S” (“Super Seamless & Stepless”) hinge; the company claimed the display could withstand 1.8 million bends. |
These are announced or reported launch specifications, not a set of independent test results. The battery capacity discrepancy is unresolved in the contemporary coverage. Royole’s descriptions of a seamless close, smooth display and bend endurance should likewise be read as manufacturer claims, rather than proof of how an individual phone would hold up over years of use. Royole’s release, Gizmochina’s specifications and Chinese Radio and Television Network’s report provide the differing launch details.
Rank #2
- 🌞 [ANTI-GLARE] BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible With Royole FlexPai 2. Disperses light so the glare does not reflect back into your eyes. Whether you're using your device outdoors with natural lighting, or viewing indoors with overhead lights, the ClearTouch Anti-Glare REDUCES 90% UV rays, protecting your eyes. ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, ROYOLE FLEXPAI 2 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 😎 [SMOOTH SURFACE] Ultra smooth matte surface gives you a FUTURISTIC high-end look and feel to your device screen. Has a paper-like surface that is comfortable to the touch, and pleasing to the eye!
- 💦 [CLEAN APPLICATION] The special GLUELESS adhesive will never leave any sticky residue that may damage your screen.
- 👔 [PERFECT DESIGN] Specifically designed for your device. These ClearTouches will fit your device screen perfectly, GUARANTEED! All ClearTouches are PRECISION-CUT to fit your device screen's exact dimensions along with any contours and cut-outs. All functionality will be fully accessible.
- ✌ [TWO-PACK] Comes with TWO (2) ClearTouch Anti-Glare screen protectors and installation accessories. Save the extra one for later, or share it with a friend! Disclaimer: ClearTouch Packaging may not be the exact one pictured on this listing.
Why the outward-folding design mattered
Unlike an inward-folding phone, the FlexPai 2 wrapped its flexible screen around the outside. Open, the 7.8-inch panel offered a tablet-like area; folded, the device retained a display on its exterior. This made the screen available without opening the phone, but also left it exposed during ordinary handling. The design trade-off was central: a hinge that closed more neatly could address the visible gap associated with the first FlexPai, but did not provide the screen protection of an inward-folding design.
Royole called its mechanism a 3S hinge and promoted a close without a visible gap. The company also described the display as smoother and more durable than before. Those statements explain the design goals, but are not independent findings that the phone had no crease or that its screen would resist damage in everyday use. The South China Morning Post’s launch coverage placed the device in the context of the first FlexPai and the broader foldable market.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- 💪 [TOUGH AND FLEXIBLE] BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible With Royole FlexPai 2. With a hardness rating of 9H, the ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield has the STRONGEST possible rating to protect the screen on your precious device. Just as strong as glass but without the possibility of chipping and cracking. ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, ROYOLE FLEXPAI 2 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 🌞 [ANTI-GLARE] This award-winning screen protector disperses light so that the glare does not reflect back into your eyes. Whether you're using the device outdoors with natural lighting, or viewing indoors with overhead lights, the ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield 9H REDUCES 90% of UV rays caused by reflected light, protecting your eyes.
- 😎 [SMOOTH SURFACE] Ultra smooth matte surface gives you a FUTURISTIC high-end look and feel to your device screen. Has a paper-like surface that is comfortable to the touch, and pleasing to the eye!
- 👔 [PERFECT DESIGN] Specifically designed for your device. These ClearTouches will fit your device screen perfectly, GUARANTEED! All ClearTouches are PRECISION-CUT to fit your device screen's exact dimensions along with any contours and cut-outs. All functionality will be fully accessible.
- ✌ [TWO-PACK] Comes with TWO (2) ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield 9H screen protectors and installation accessories. Save the extra one for later, or share it with a friend! Disclaimer: ClearTouch Packaging may not be the exact one pictured on this listing.
What waterOS 2.0 added
Royole’s software was intended to adapt the interface to the changing screen shape. Launch coverage described a smart sidebar, shortcuts on the curved edges, multi-window operation and controls for functions such as volume and waking the screen. Reports also described running three apps at once and camera mirroring between display sections. These were advertised or reported capabilities, not a guarantee that every app would scale or behave consistently.
The available launch accounts do not establish app compatibility across the board, notification behavior, later software updates or Google-service availability outside China. Those details matter particularly for an imported handset: the Android generation alone does not establish what services or regional software configuration a buyer would receive.
Rank #4
- 🏃 [HI-SPEED SUPPORT] BoxWave Cable Compatible With Royole FlexPai 2. Supports Hi-Speed USB 3.1 DATA TRANSFERS! 💬 Includes limited 3rd party tech support for your device (up to 3 inquiries via messaging) - not affiliated with or endorsed by Royole ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, ROYOLE FLEXPAI 2 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 💰 [LOW COST] Why pay more? Get the DirectSync Cable for your device that functions just as well OR BETTER than your original cable for a fraction of the cost!
- ✌ [DUAL-FUNCTION] The DirectSync cable SYNCS and CHARGES your device. The DirectSync's dual-function design makes traveling convenient!
- 💪 [STABILITY AND STRENGTH] A SHIELDED cable provides PROTECTION to your cable to insure you get the most use and LONGEST LIFE out of your DirectSync. Features strong rubberized grommet strain reliefs to avoid kinks or splitting!
- 📒 [SPECIFICATIONS] Generous 6-FOOT LENGTH so you don't have to awkwardly prop up your device JUST SO in order to get a charge!
How it differed from the original FlexPai
The second model was a substantial hardware update, but it preserved the defining outward-folding concept. The practical differences reported at launch included:
- Newer platform: The Snapdragon 865 and dual-mode 5G replaced the older platform of the first FlexPai.
- Revised hinge: Royole emphasized a more refined mechanism intended to close with less visible gap.
- More ambitious software: waterOS 2.0 promoted multitasking and controls designed around the flexible panel.
- Updated camera system: Launch specifications listed a four-camera arrangement.
- Continued exposed display: The screen still wrapped around the outside, so the fundamental handling and protection trade-off remained.
Royole also promoted improvements in display smoothness, brightness and durability, but those should not be treated as independently verified performance comparisons. Its March 2020 preview describes the company’s display and hinge claims.
Recommended Free Tools
Best Value
- 💪 [TOUGH AND FLEXIBLE] BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible With Royole FlexPai 2. The ClearTouch Crystal ToughShield 9H is graded with a hardness rating of 9H, which is the STRONGEST possible rating to protect the screen on your precious device. Just as strong as tempered glass but without the possibility of chipping and cracking. ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, ROYOLE FLEXPAI 2 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 💎 [CRYSTAL CLEAR] This award-winning screen protector allows 99% VISIBILITY with super clear material so you won't even notice it's there! Allows all of your vibrant colors to shine through without distorting your view in any way.
- 👀 [GLASS-LIKE SURFACE] Made with the strongest film material to protect your device while giving you the ORIGINAL look and feel of your screen.
- 🧩 [PERFECT DESIGN] Specifically designed for your device. These ClearTouches will fit your device screen perfectly, GUARANTEED! All ClearTouches are PRECISION-CUT to fit your device screen's exact dimensions along with any contours and cut-outs. All functionality will be fully accessible.
- ✌ [TWO-PACK] Comes with TWO (2) ClearTouch Crystal ToughShield 9H screen protectors and installation accessories. Save the extra one for later, or share it with a friend!
FlexPai 2 in the 2020 foldable market
The base FlexPai 2 cost less at launch in China than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold2, based on the cited Chinese prices, and its large screen and flagship-era processor made it a credible hardware competitor on paper. It was not simply a cheaper equivalent: Samsung had a larger smartphone ecosystem, while Royole’s outward fold left the display exposed and its waterOS was less established.
Huawei’s Mate X family was another outward-folding comparison, but availability and software varied by market and model. The FlexPai 2’s China-only launch limited direct access for many international buyers, and a lower local launch price did not settle questions about warranty, repair access, network compatibility or software support elsewhere.
What a buyer should verify before considering an import
The launch-era coverage does not establish a current official sales channel, current support status, warranty policy or reliable 2026 price. Anyone evaluating a second-hand or imported FlexPai 2 should check the individual offer rather than assume those details:
- Is the unit new, used, refurbished or a display/demo phone?
- Does the seller provide an active warranty, and who handles returns?
- Do its 4G and 5G bands match the buyer’s carrier?
- Are Google Play and other required Google services installed and working?
- Can the software be used in the desired language and region configuration?
- Are replacement parts and screen repairs available, and who performs them?
- Is the device carrier-unlocked, and who is responsible for customs and battery-shipping restrictions?
Without reliable current information on support and authorized distribution, the FlexPai 2 is best understood as a historical launch rather than a straightforward present-day purchase recommendation.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
