Samsung’s New Foldable Phones: A Leap into the Future of Handheld Tech

Once again, Samsung has changed the game, revealing not one, but three revolutionary foldable smartphones at its latest Unpacked event. The Korean tech giant has introduced the Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and a more budget-friendly Z Flip7 FE, and the tech world is buzzing. Each model is a testament to Samsung’s relentless pursuit of innovation—thinner, lighter, and more feature-packed than their predecessors. But they’re not just gadgets; they’re a statement, a signal of the direction in which handheld technology is headed.

A Trio of Foldable Innovations

Traditionally, Samsung has unveiled two foldable phones at its Unpacked event. But this year, users got a pleasant surprise with the introduction of a third, more affordable model—the Z Flip7 FE. Priced at $899, it is a formidable option for those wanting to experience foldable technology without breaking the thousand-dollar mark. “The introduction of a more budget-friendly model is a smart move by Samsung. It can help to bring foldable phones to a wider audience, fostering a more rapid adoption of this new technology,” says Dr. Hannah Park, Professor of Technology and Innovation at Seoul National University.

Thinner, Lighter, and More Powerful

The new Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 models are not just superior in their features but also in their form factor. The Z Fold7, the flagship model, is a marvel of design and engineering. Weighing just 218 grams and measuring 8.9 mm when folded, it’s significantly thinner and lighter than the previous Z Fold6 model.

Moreover, the Z Fold7 comes with a larger 6.5-inch cover screen and an 8-inch main screen, offering users a more immersive viewing experience. And it’s not just about looks; the phone is also powered by Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, ensuring top-notch performance.

Camera and AI Enhancements

Camera technology has always been a battleground for smartphone manufacturers, and Samsung has upped the ante with a 200-megapixel main camera on the Z Fold7. The new models also come with AI-enhanced photo editing software, including a Photo Assist function for automatic object manipulation, and generative AI for filling empty spaces in pictures. “The integration of AI in photo editing software is a significant upgrade. This technology can potentially transform the way users interact with their photos, providing a more intuitive and creative experience,” says Dr. Mark Davis, a renowned expert in AI and machine learning.

A Closer Look at the Z Flip7 and Z Flip7 FE

The Z Flip7, while smaller than the Z Fold7, packs a punch in terms of features. Its cover screen now measures 4.1 inches, making it more functional when the phone is folded. It also boasts the largest battery ever in the Flip series—a 4,300 mAh powerhouse.

• The Z Flip7 FE, although similar to the Z Flip6 in many aspects, offers DeX support for the first time, providing a workstation-like experience when the phone is connected to a screen and peripherals.
• The Now Bar on the cover screen, reminiscent of iOS’ Live Activities, displays real-time activities for user convenience.
• Another feature, Now Brief, presents a summary of reminders, events, traffic, and fitness insights, along with personalized media recommendations.

Google Features Integration

The new foldable phones also integrate Google’s Gemini assistant, offering users the ability to use the assistant without having to unfold the phone. They will also have access to Gemini Live’s camera and video AI features, enabling users to take pictures or videos and ask the AI bot questions. “The integration of Google’s Gemini assistant with Samsung’s new foldable phones is a significant step towards the future of AI and mobile technology. It’s a clear demonstration of how AI can make our devices smarter and more responsive,” says AI researcher, Dr. Emily Chen.

Availability and Variants

Preorders for the Galaxy Z Flip7 and the Galaxy Z Fold7 have begun, with general availability from July 25. The Z Flip7 FE is available in two color options: white and black, and two storage options: 128GB and 256GB, with 8GB of RAM. The Z Fold7 offers more variety, with three storage options: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, and three color options: Jetblack, Blue Shadow, and Silver Shadow.

In conclusion, Samsung’s new foldable phones are not just a leap in technology; they are a testament to the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of handheld devices.