I still remember my first encounter with the Samsung Galaxy Fold back in 2019. A colleague showed it to me, and I was struck by its ambition. However, the device’s awkward 4.6-inch cover screen and bulky design made it feel more like a prototype than a finished product. Many reviewers, frustrated by its feel, mistakenly damaged the internal display while trying to peel off what they thought was a screen protector.
Yet, the Fold held promise. Imagine a device that operates like a standard smartphone but unfolds to reveal a larger display. Over time, the Fold lineup has evolved. It’s thrilling to see how far we’ve come since that first version.
Now, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7. This device marks a significant leap, improving dramatically over its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold6. It’s likely the foldable many fans have eagerly awaited.
The Fold7 often garners reactions like, “Wow, that’s impressive!” Unlike previous models that often prompted a “Yeah, but…” response, the excitement for the Fold7 speaks for itself. While it may not be flawless, it’s a remarkable achievement in both design and engineering. Even a colleague, who is a loyal Apple fan, couldn’t help but admire it.
So, is now the time to invest in a foldable phone? The starting price of AUD$2,899 makes it a serious choice for most consumers, but it may be worth it.
The Good: Design and Performance
One of the standout features of the Fold7 is its sleek design. People I’ve shown it to are often taken aback, stopping to admire how compact it is. The phone is 26% thinner than the Fold6, going from 239 grams and 12.1 mm down to an impressive 215 grams and 8.9 mm. For reference, Samsung’s non-foldable Galaxy S25 Ultra is heavier at 218 grams and only slightly thinner.
Photos don’t do the Fold7 justice; it’s genuinely a sight to behold. Both screens have expanded, with the cover screen now at 6.5 inches and the main display at 8.0 inches. Using the cover screen almost feels like holding a regular smartphone—it’s a huge improvement.
Camera Upgrades
One aspect where foldable phones have struggled is camera quality. The Fold7 slightly bridges this gap with its robust camera setup. It features five lenses, including a 200-megapixel wide-angle lens that rivals the flagship S25 Ultra. Users can capture stunning images more effortlessly than before, which is a welcome change.
Daily Use Performance
The Fold7 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. This ensures smooth performance as you navigate its One UI 8 interface. With an impressive 4,400 mAh battery, it can often last more than a day and a half, surprising for such a compact design.
The Bad: A Few Drawbacks
Though the Fold7 has a lot going for it, some issues linger. For instance, despite advancements in AI, it still struggles with basic tasks like accurate transcription. As tech evolves, many users expect more from AI features.
Moreover, the S Pen, popular with some users, isn’t included with this model. For those who loved using the S Pen with the Fold6, this absence is a disappointment.
Finally, the Fold7 can feel a bit slippery in hand. While I admire its design, I wouldn’t hesitate to get a case for it to ensure a better grip.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Z Fold7 is a huge step forward, showcasing Samsung’s strength in the foldable market. I’ve noticed it turning heads, even among those who were skeptical about foldable technology. Despite its price tag, it’s evident that the Fold7 offers a compelling option for those ready to embrace this innovative design. It’s clear they’ve made significant strides, and many are keen to see what comes next.
For further insights, check out Samsung’s official site.
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