The launch of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has taken the mobile world by storm this year. As competitors previously unveiled sleeker, lighter folding devices that outperformed the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung finally raised the bar with this new release. The result? A game-changer in the folding phone landscape.
Historically, Samsung has introduced iterative models that, while impressive, fell short of breaking records set by rivals like the Honor Magic V5 and the Oppo Find N5, known for their ultra-thin designs.
However, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has transformed expectations. It stands as the slimmest and lightest folding phone to date and has emerged as Samsung’s most successful folding device ever, as evidenced by record-setting pre-order numbers from both customers and carriers. But what exactly makes the Fold 7 special? To answer that, I caught up with Jeff Howard, Vice President of Mobile Devices and Accessories at AT&T. Here’s what we discussed.
Samsung Redefines Folding Phones
One of the most surprising reactions to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has been its initial feel. Every time I held a folding phone, it was an experience, yet this time was different. The ultra-thin design left me genuinely impressed. We conducted a test where 30 average users were shown the device, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Jeff summed it up perfectly:
Customers come in and discover that it’s finally in a form factor that’s thin enough for me to carry around.
Creating such a design required immense attention to detail, something Jeff appreciates, given his engineering background. He also praised TM Roh, the CEO of Samsung’s Mobile Experiences division, stating that they have finally grasped what folding phones should entail.
Why AT&T Chooses Select Folding Phones
Along with the Fold 7, Samsung released the Flip 7 and Flip 7 FE. The Flip 7 acts as their flagship flip phone, while the FE version portrays their first affordable flip option. Interestingly, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE resembles last year’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 but is not available at many carriers.
According to Jeff, this decision was straightforward:
Our customer base demands leading-edge technology, and they’re super patient when it comes to trying new things.
In the U.S. market, most phones are purchased on installment plans. This makes the $300 (around €280) difference between the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and 7 FE less significant for consumers, as the monthly payment difference is marginal.
One of the challenges in the U.S. market is installment plans. When you’re dividing payments by 36 months, it ends up being just a few dollars difference monthly.
Samsung and its carrier allies created some of the best Galaxy Z Fold 7 deals yet. For instance, on AT&T, you can get up to $1,100 (about €1,025) off a new Galaxy Z Fold 7 with a trade-in and new line.
The Growing Importance of Affordable Options
While these deals shine, it’s essential to acknowledge the subset of consumers who are more budget-conscious. This group often gravitates towards less expensive devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE. Jeff explains why this model still has a place in the market:
Cricket customers love products like the FE. It’s just a different set of buying behaviors.
Many Cricket customers are prepared to pay full price for devices, making budget-friendly options more appealing to them.
Is the Galaxy Z Fold 7 the Best Folding Phone?
After testing the Galaxy Z Fold 7, I can confidently say it is an excellent choice for most users. Its record-breaking sales and positive reviews support that sentiment. As Jeff noted, with the current functionality and use of folding phones, they have indeed hit a sweet spot.
What’s Next for Folding Phones?
During our conversation, we also touched on future innovations. Samsung is expected to introduce the Galaxy G Fold, a tri-folding phone designed to compete with the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate, the first of its kind. This device could unfold into a tablet-sized 10-inch display.
However, size remains a critical concern. The Mate XT Ultimate measures just 3.6mm thick when unfolded, but when folded, it reaches 12.8mm — nearly as thick as the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Would consumers accept such a trade-off?
I think the real question is how good a tri-fold is from a size point of view. It may be more of a niche product since the use cases aren’t immediately clear.
Amidst all these innovations, smart glasses are being discussed as potential next steps in user interaction. As Jeff mentioned, wearing smart glasses allows for a more convenient way to consume content.
In conclusion, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a remarkable device that resonates with consumer needs and preferences. If you’re in the market for a new phone, look into the exciting offers associated with the Fold 7. Alternatively, explore more options, but with Samsung’s impressive lineup, you won’t be disappointed.
For further insights on phone technology and trends, don’t hesitate to check out more articles at Moyens I/O.