Samsung is gearing up to unveil its next generation of foldable smartphones later this year. Leaks and rumors point to significant design changes for both the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7, with larger displays and refined form factors. Let’s explore what we know so far about these upcoming devices.
Galaxy Z Flip 7: Embracing a Larger Cover Display
The Galaxy Z Flip series has been Samsung’s take on the clamshell foldable design. For the Z Flip 7, Samsung appears to be making a major change to the external display.
Expanded Cover Screen
Multiple leaks suggest the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will feature a much larger cover display, potentially measuring around 4 inches diagonally. This is a significant increase from the 3.4-inch external screen on the current Z Flip 6.
The expanded cover display would allow users to:
- View more notifications at a glance
- Interact with widgets and quick settings more easily
- Take higher quality selfies using the main cameras
- Perform basic tasks without opening the phone
Design Inspiration
Interestingly, this larger cover screen design seems to take inspiration from competitors like the Motorola Razr. The change could make the Z Flip 7 more functional when closed, addressing a common criticism of earlier models.
Galaxy Z Fold 7: Refining the Tablet Experience
The Galaxy Z Fold series turns a smartphone into a small tablet when unfolded. For the Z Fold 7, Samsung looks to be making incremental but important improvements.
Wider Cover Display
Leaked accessory designs suggest the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have a slightly wider cover display compared to its predecessor. This could make the device more usable as a traditional smartphone when folded.
Larger Internal Screen
The main folding display is also expected to grow, potentially reaching 8 inches diagonally (up from 7.6 inches on the Z Fold 6). A larger screen enhances the tablet-like experience when unfolded.
Thinner Profile
Despite the larger screens, rumors indicate Samsung has managed to make the Z Fold 7 slightly thinner than previous models. This could improve pocketability and overall ergonomics.
Potential New Features
While not confirmed, some additional features rumored for the new foldables include:
- Improved water resistance
- Faster charging capabilities
- Enhanced cameras, potentially including a periscope zoom lens on the Z Fold 7
- A redesigned hinge mechanism for a less visible crease
Release Timeline
Samsung typically unveils its new foldable smartphones in August or September. We can expect the official announcement of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 around that time frame, with devices likely hitting store shelves a few weeks later.
A Competitive Landscape
Samsung’s foldable innovations come at a time of increased competition in the space. Companies like Google, OnePlus, and Oppo have all entered or are rumored to be entering the foldable market. This push for larger, more functional displays on Samsung’s devices likely aims to maintain their position as a leader in the foldable smartphone category.
As we await official confirmation from Samsung, these leaks and rumors paint an exciting picture of what’s to come for foldable smartphones. The focus on larger, more practical displays could make these devices even more appealing to a wider range of users.