Samsung is set to reveal its latest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5, at an upcoming event in South Korea next month. These highly anticipated devices will hit the stores earlier than their predecessors, marking Samsung’s response to the growing competition in the foldable phone market. With various companies introducing their own foldable designs in international markets, Samsung has started to feel the pressure. Additionally, the upcoming Pixel Fold, which will deliver a Google-optimized version of Android, holds significant importance in the foldable landscape.
Leaks surrounding the new Samsung foldables suggest that the company has taken steps to address user concerns and stay competitive. Both the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 will feature design changes aimed at enhancing user experience. However, those anticipating a specific design change in the external display aspect ratio will have to wait for the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Recent leaks indicate that Samsung has resolved a long-standing design compromise with the Fold and Flip series. The new waterdrop hinge design of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 will allow the devices to fold perfectly flat, eliminating the gap between the two halves of the screen that has been a minor annoyance for users.
In addition to the improved hinge mechanism, Samsung will also increase the size of the Flip 5’s external display to match similar models from Oppo and Motorola. These design updates suggest that Samsung is making efforts to catch up with features that other vendors have already introduced.
While Samsung’s previous iterations of the Fold and Flip series may not have incorporated these design changes, the company’s dominant position in the foldable market allowed it to remain unchallenged. However, with the emergence of alternatives from Chinese vendors and the unique offering of the Pixel Fold, Samsung is now prioritizing design improvements to stay ahead.
One particular design issue that Chinese vendors and Google have addressed is the aspect ratio of the external display on foldable devices. Samsung’s tall aspect ratio has proven to be less than ideal for regular phone usage while folded. Competing handsets such as the Oppo Find N and Pixel Fold have managed to eliminate this problem by resembling regular phones when folded. Samsung enthusiasts who desire a more conventional folded phone experience may find the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s aspect ratio disappointing.
Leakers in the Samsung community have suggested that potential buyers should skip the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and wait for the Galaxy Z Fold 6. According to these leaks, the Fold 6 will bring a significant design change in the aspect ratio of the external display, offering a shorter or wider form factor compared to its predecessor.
While details about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 remain speculative, it is important to note that the device is expected to feature the same image sensor as the Fold 5, which is still a capable component.
It remains unclear where the leaked information originated from, but recent reports also suggest that the Fold 5 might be slightly cheaper than its predecessor. Despite the peculiar aspect ratio, the Fold 5 is still poised to be a top-tier Android flagship with high-end specifications akin to the Galaxy S23 series. However, it is worth mentioning that foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 will be more expensive than traditional smartphones, even after potential price reductions.
As Samsung prepares to unveil its new foldable lineup, users eagerly anticipate the improvements in design and functionality. The upcoming releases indicate Samsung’s commitment to adapting to market demands and providing innovative foldable solutions, while the Galaxy Z Fold 6 promises to address the specific aspect ratio concerns that users have been longing for.
