Foldable smartphones, represented by the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, have achieved design maturity
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has taken the world of foldable smartphones to new heights, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of this innovative technology. With a sleeker and lighter form factor, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is setting new standards for portability and comfort.
One of the key design advancements in the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a slimmer, lighter, and more ergonomic design, weighing just 215 grams. This improvement addresses concerns about bulkiness and weight that have plagued previous foldable devices. The device is also more compact, with a folded thickness of 8.9mm and an unfolded thickness of 4.2mm, making it the thinnest Galaxy smartphone ever and even lighter than some flagship non-foldable phones like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a wider, taller 21:9 aspect ratio cover display of 6.5 inches, enhancing one-handed usability. The main display, at 8 inches, is larger and features ProScaler AI technology for better visuals. The device also introduces the Armor FlexHinge with a multi-rail structure, which reduces screen crease visibility and boosts durability, while being thinner and lighter than previous hinge designs.
The Advanced Armor Aluminum frame provides increased structural strength, further enhancing the device's durability. However, some compromises remain, such as the absence of S Pen support, which may matter to some users.
When compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is 0.7mm thicker but 3 grams lighter. Despite being almost as thick as the Honor Magic V5 and Oppo Find N5, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 features a smaller 4,400 mAh battery, highlighting areas where further improvement is needed.
The design of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is so good that it is hoped other phone makers will follow suit. The device feels distinctly normal in the hand, making it a good alternative for those who want the folding form factor but don't want added heft. However, the camera bump on the device is considerable, and its position on the left side of the phone causes it to rock when laid flat on a table.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 raises the question of what comes next in terms of foldable phone design. While it may currently represent one of the most refined foldable designs available, ongoing innovation in hinge mechanisms, materials, and displays suggests that foldable phone design could continue to evolve. As such, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 may not be the absolute peak of foldable design, it is undoubtedly a significant step forward, and we can look forward to further refinement and new features in the near future.
[1] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Specifications: Everything You Need to Know, https://www.techradar.com/news/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-specifications-everything-you-need-to-know [2] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Review: The Best Foldable Phone Yet?, https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-review/ [3] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 vs Galaxy Z Fold 6: What's New?, https://www.techradar.com/news/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-vs-galaxy-z-fold-6-whats-new [4] Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 vs Honor Magic V5: What's the Difference?, https://www.techradar.com/news/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-vs-honor-magic-v5-whats-the-difference
- The Galaxy Z Fold 7, with its sleek and lightweight design, showcases a new generation of smartphones, initiating a revolution in the field of technology and gadgets, particularly foldable smartphones.
- Among its numerous features, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a wider cover display, a larger main display, and advanced technology for better visuals, all of which make it stand out in the smartphone market, demonstrating the extraordinary potential of technology and gadgets.
