It’s amazing how technology can bring us back to our roots. For many of us who ditched flip phones years ago, the idea of using one again might seem absurd. But here I am, pondering the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, a device priced at $1,100 (approximately €1,030) that promises to offer something refreshingly different in an era dominated by flat rectangles.
Having witnessed the evolution of foldable phones over the years, I couldn’t help but feel intrigued by Samsung’s latest offering. Their Flip family seems to finally be hitting its stride.
The Design Evolution
Samsung faces formidable competition, particularly from the Motorola Razr Plus, which shares a sleek design. To keep up, Samsung has revamped both style and performance in its smaller foldable device.
A Generous Display
As someone who hasn’t frequently used folding phones, I was initially skeptical. However, my first interactions with the Z Flip 7 blew me away. The new 4.1-inch cover screen offers a far more pleasant experience than its predecessor’s cramped 3.4-inch version. It’s user-friendly, which is vital for someone like me, re-venturing into the foldable world.
While the Z Flip 7 maintains a bit of bulk when folded, it’s lightweight and slips easily into pockets. The front display and dual cameras transform your selfie game, offering a genuine preview for framing shots.
How effective is the Z Flip 7’s camera? The camera quality is notable, featuring a 12MP ultra-wide and a 50MP wide-angle lens, both of which perform impressively, especially on the cover display. While Samsung touts one-finger zooming reminiscent of vintage camcorders, I found it a bit unsteady and would appreciate some enhancements here.
I also enjoyed the quirky feature that lets you prop the phone up for selfies. This comes with mouse-like functionality on the top display, although it felt a bit unnecessary and confusing at times.
Comfortable Usage and Display Quality
One concern I had was the phone’s length when extended. Surprisingly, it took less than a minute for me to adjust to it. Watching videos or scrolling through articles was effortless—especially with the fluid 120Hz display enhancing the experience.
The increased screen size from 6.7 inches to 6.9 inches with a 21:9 aspect ratio is a thoughtful improvement. The brightness is impressive, reducing the visibility of the joined crease while offering a pleasant viewing experience. While it’s still visible, it’s certainly less pronounced than previous models.
Samsung’s Flex Hinge enhances the phone’s durability, having been tested for 200,000 openings. The phone feels robust in hand, partly because Samsung has managed to waterproof the circuitry rather than sealing the device entirely.
Innovative Features and User Experience
The Z Flip 7 comes equipped with Gemini Live, allowing interaction with Google’s AI. My limited trial revealed that it worked as an AI hub but didn’t fully engage as I had hoped.
The One UI 8 interface felt advanced, incorporating features that users have come to expect, such as DeX support. Samsung is finally closing the gap with other high-end competitors.
How does the Z Flip 7 compare to other smartphones? With its three fresh colors—coral red, classic black, and eye-catching blue—it stands apart. The vibrant options really make the device appealing.
In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 signifies a remarkable leap for Samsung in the foldable phone arena. Its compact size, impressive specs, and enhanced capabilities position it as a formidable choice for those seeking a stylish yet powerful smartphone.
If you’re on the hunt for a device that marries innovation with style, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is worth considering. Curious to learn more about the latest tech offerings? Explore more at Moyens I/O.