Key Information
- Speculation indicates that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 might be Samsung’s lightest foldable yet, potentially at a mere 8.2mm when folded.
- This represents around a ~0.8mm decrease from prior projections and a significant difference from past models.
- To accomplish this, Samsung might eliminate the S Pen digitizer, a feature seen in previous Fold iterations.
- Additionally, the device is expected to debut with One UI 8, based on Android 16.
Streamlined Design
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold range has consistently led the way in foldable smartphone technology. Nevertheless, one prevalent critique has been the device’s weightiness when folded. As per a recent article by TechManiacs, the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 could directly tackle this issue.
The article, referencing trustworthy sources, suggests that the Fold 7 may come in at just 8.2mm thick when folded—making it sleeker than the current Fold 5 and even more so than the OPPO Find N5, which sits at 8.9mm. Achieving this would be a remarkable engineering accomplishment, especially given the intricacies of foldable displays and hinge designs.
What’s the Compromise?
In pursuit of this thinner design, Samsung may consider removing the S Pen digitizer. While the S Pen has been a popular feature since it was first introduced in the Fold series, it does contribute to the device’s thickness. Eliminating it could potentially reduce the thickness by about 0.6mm, as indicated by prior reports.
Nonetheless, this choice could create mixed opinions. Power users who depend on the S Pen for efficiency might view this as a regression, while others could appreciate the more streamlined aesthetic. It’s also plausible that Samsung might provide an external S Pen option, akin to what was offered with the Galaxy Z Fold 3.
Display and Aspect Ratio Adjustments
An additional element contributing to the rumored slimness might be a shift in the device’s aspect ratio. The Fold 7 could embrace a more “standard smartphone-like” look when folded, which may enhance its pocketability and usability with one hand. This would be a positive change for users who found earlier Fold versions too narrow or uncomfortable to use when closed.
Software and Hardware Innovations
Apart from physical design, the Fold 7 is predicted to launch with One UI 8, based on Android 16. This may introduce a range of new features tailored for foldable technology, encompassing enhanced multitasking, improved app continuity, and upgraded under-display camera (UDC) capabilities.
On the topic of cameras, there are murmurs of a possible 200MP primary sensor, a significant upgrade from the Fold 5’s 50MP main camera. This could elevate the Fold 7 as a notable player in mobile photography, competing with high-end slab phones.
Pricing and Release
While nothing is set in stone, the report hints at a slight price increase for European markets. This wouldn’t be unexpected, considering the prospective hardware enhancements and design improvements. Nonetheless, Samsung is likely to strive to keep the Fold 7 competitively priced to preserve its standing in the expanding foldable market.