Most people don’t talk about their phones anymore; it seems like they’ve all settled on one basic design. Back in 2017, it felt different. You could show off an amazing new device, and people would notice. Now, unless it’s a flip phone, no one pays much attention.
Flip phones stand out. They attract a certain kind of curiosity. During the smartphone boom, many manufacturers tried different styles, like physical keyboards and pop-up cameras, but eventually, everyone landed on the standard “slab” design. Samsung changed the game again with its folding screens.
When foldable phones first entered the market, they faced some serious issues. Samsung’s first foldable, for example, struggled with screen problems almost immediately after release. Reviewers noted bulges and defects that made the phone almost unusable, sending shockwaves through tech circles. Many owners peeled off factory-installed screen protectors, not realizing this was a risky move. Dust and debris created havoc inside, demonstrating a design flaw that left foldable phones vulnerable.
The initial wave of flip phones faced similar pitfalls. The revived Motorola Razr and Samsung’s Flip had their share of disappointments, mostly due to durability and high prices. But with the 2023 Motorola Razr Plus, a turning point arrived. It featured a vibrant 3.6-inch outer screen, allowing users to interact meaningfully without even opening the phone. You could quickly reply to messages or browse Spotify like you would on a regular smartphone.
Despite improvements in design, dust remains a major concern. Current models from Motorola and Samsung have an IP48 rating. This means they can resist some small particles, but anything smaller could sneak in and cause trouble. Who would want to spend over $1,000 on a phone that might be susceptible to dust?
Minseok Kang, Samsung’s head of smartphone planning, acknowledged the challenge of creating a dustproof foldable. “It’s difficult, but not impossible,” he said. Rumors about upcoming models boasting improved dust resistance keep popping up, including potential specs for the Google Pixel 10 Pro, which could create a buzz if true.
Globally, the variety in flip phones is richer than in the U.S. Brands like Oppo and Huawei are pushing innovative designs. Meanwhile, Samsung and Motorola are expanding their collections. Motorola even added gaming features tailored for the outer screen, making their devices more fun and interactive.
As technology continues to evolve, flip phones and foldables hold a unique charm. They mix nostalgia with modern convenience. However, tangible improvements are essential, especially in durability. Users are keen on innovation but are also wary of paying for novelty if it comes with potential pitfalls.
In a world centered on reliability and functionality, it will be interesting to see how these devices hold up in the long run. Would you trade dust resistance for the novelty of a flip phone? Only time will tell.
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Column,Gadgets,Phones,Tech,The Stepback
