#foldables

[alanqcooper]

Samsung’s Z Fold 4 blends innovative design and premium performance

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G is the latest iteration in Samsung’s foldable smartphone lineup, demonstrating just how far the technology has evolved since its inception.

The device embraces the now familiar book-like design, refining it with subtle improvements to enhance its appeal and durability. Reassuringly, it now boasts an improved hinge mechanism, providing a smoother folding experience that feels more natural and sturdy. It’s complemented by a water-resistant rating of IPX8, making the phone more resilient to the elements.

The exterior of the device features a 6.2-inch AMOLED cover screen, providing a compact smartphone experience for quick interactions. On unfolding, the Z Fold 4 5G reveals a 7.6-inch AMOLED main screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering an immersive tablet-like experience. The bezels have been reduced and the under-display camera technology provides an unobtrusive screen layout, making for an improved viewing experience.

Performance and Battery Life

Equipped with a powerful Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 chipset and 12GB of RAM, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G excels in performance, handling everyday tasks with ease and running demanding applications without hiccups. Despite its powerful internals, the device manages to maintain an impressive battery life, thanks to its 4,500mAh battery.

Samsung’s One UI 4, based on Android 12, offers seamless transitions between the cover screen and the main display. It also provides a host of multitasking options, such as Flex mode, which splits the main screen in half for simultaneous app usage. With the improved multi-window mode, users can run up to three apps at the same time. This was seamless and stutter free in our testing.

Cameras

The Z Fold 4 5G sports a triple-camera system on its rear, consisting of a 12MP ultra-wide, a 12MP wide-angle, and a 12MP telephoto lens, providing versatility for a variety of shooting scenarios. The main 12MP wide-angle camera produces sharp, detailed photos in a range of lighting conditions, with reliable autofocus and image stabilization. The 12MP ultra-wide lens captures a broader field of view, while the 12MP telephoto lens offers 3x optical zoom for distant subjects.

The under-display 4MP front camera, though not the highest resolution, produces decent if underwhelming selfies. However, the cover screen’s 10MP front-facing camera provides better quality for those seeking higher-resolution selfies and video calls.

Connectivity and Extras

As a 5G-enabled device, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G offers fast internet speeds for those with access to 5G networks, still a frustratingly spotty experience in South Africa. It also includes other advanced connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.

The stereo speakers tuned by AKG, offered an impressively immersive audio experience for when you’ve left your earbuds at home.

One of the standout extras of the Z Fold 4 5G is the S Pen Fold Edition, which Samsung says provides a seamless stylus experience for note taking, drawing, and more. The S Pen Pro, a separate accessory, adds even more functionality, including remote control capabilities.

Alas, our review device did not come with either, but from what we’ve heard from those who’ve used these extras, it enhances the device’s multitasking capabilities significantly. However, Samsung hasn’t provided a slot in the Z Fold 4 to store a stylus, unlike its non-folding Galaxy S22 and S23 Ultra devices.

Our verdict

Samsung has refined the foldable smartphone experience with the Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G, showcasing a stunning design, top-tier performance, and a plethora of advanced features. Its improved hinge mechanism and water-resistant build make it more durable, while the seamless integration of software and hardware facilitates a versatile user experience.

The triple-camera system offers versatility and excellent photo quality, even though the under-display front camera may not be the best choice for selfie enthusiasts. The inclusion of the S Pen Fold Edition and AKG-tuned stereo speakers further enhance the device’s functionality and appeal.

However, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G’s steep price point means it’s not for everyone. It’s best suited for those who want a cutting-edge, high-performance device that can provide both a smartphone and a tablet experience in one package. For anyone willing to make the pretty hefty investment required, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G is a remarkable piece of technology that showcases the future of mobile devices.

The Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G is available on contract from R3 073,00/pm or for a cash price of R32 999.

[laurentgiret]

Apple is reportedly working on foldable versions of its iPhone that fold vertically like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip devices.

[mtjapblogger]

My thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

[sucka99]

[alanianatkinson]

AT THE OFFICE

Just outside... I decided to sit outside here to get another perspective of my "office". Location: Wherever I am at that moment. a fruity drink called "umbra" - must try

Another day at the office. Location: Just outside of Starbucks (the non-aircon area), at Sunway Pyramid. Taking a picture using my Samsung Galaxy S-23 Ultra. Here, I am using the S-Pen to shoot the shots. Not very conducive working here at the moment. A group of young guys are happily chatting away and laughing out loud. Perfectly alright with me as they are happy. I have to master the art of…

[everytechever]

HONOR Magic V2 is the world’s thinnest and lightest foldable yet

#HONOR has recently unveiled the world’s thinnest and lightest foldable phone along with #HONORMagicPad13, #HONORWatch4, and #HONORSmartScreen5 #HONORMagicV2 #tech #smartphones #everytechever

HONOR, the leading global provider of smart devices, has recently unveiled a new generation of premium folding phones, commencing with the thinnest and lightest foldable HONOR Magic V2. HONOR redefined folding screen mobile phones with innovative technology that breaks boundaries and goes beyond the expectations of the developers. HONOR Magic V2 has achieved a closed thickness of 9.9mm.In the…

[demujeresblog]

Desplegando el Futuro: Samsung y la Revolución de los Foldables

Por Sang Jik Lee, presidente de Samsung Electronics para Centroamérica y el Caribe En la industria de la telefonía móvil, la verdadera innovación es aquellos cuyos beneficios transforman la vida cotidiana de las personas, así lo ha conseguido Samsung al reinventar la experiencia móvil con los revolucionarios smartphones foldables. Estos dispositivos vanguardistas marcan sin duda un hito en la…

[geek-on-record]

I give up on foldable phones

Six months. That’s the time I have enjoyed (and disliked) my first foldable smartphone. I’m going back to the slab form factor. I feel disappointed and even defeated; I truly tried to make it work, but the issues I detected one month after buying the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 eventually became a dealbreaker for me. In my initial post, I talked about how fragile the inner screen seemed. I mentioned…

[swift-screen]

Motorola Razr 2023: Neue Generation des Foldables auf dem Vormarsch Bild: Motorola Die Luft auf dem Foldable-Markt wird immer dichter und die Pioniere geben das Tem...

[alanqcooper]

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: a step towards the future, a nod to the past

In an increasingly crowded smartphone market, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 5 stands out with its unique blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology, offering a glimpse into the potential future of mobile tech while also harking back to the flip phones of yesteryear

Design and display: aesthetics meet functionality

The Z Flip 5’s design is a harmonious marriage of form and function. Its sleek, gapless hinge allows the device to fold into a compact form, reminiscent of the flip phones of the early 2000s. Yet, when unfolded, it reveals a vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED display that offers a bright, crisp, and smooth user experience.

The display’s foldable nature doesn’t compromise its quality; colours are vivid, blacks are deep, and the brightness is sufficient for outdoor use. The crease at the fold is there, but it’s something that most users find fades into the background of their daily experience.

The outer cover screen has received a significant upgrade, now boasting a 3.4-inch display that offers more than just notifications and time. It’s a fully interactive experience, allowing users to respond to messages, control music, and even use it as a viewfinder for the camera.

This enhancement in functionality transforms the cover screen from a passive feature into an active tool that complements the main display, ensuring that the phone’s design is not just about aesthetics, but about adding real value to the user experience.

Performance: power in your pocket

The performance of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is where the device truly flexes its technological muscles. Armed with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the same chip powering many flagship models, the Z Flip 5 handles tasks with remarkable agility.

This is complemented by 8GB of RAM, which ensures that multitasking is a breeze, allowing users to flip between apps with no perceptible lag. Whether it’s for casual browsing, streaming high-definition videos, or engaging in graphic-intensive gaming, the Z Flip 5 stands tall amongst its competitors, delivering a seamless performance that belies its foldable form factor.

The device comes with a choice of 256GB or 512GB of internal storage, catering to a range of users from the media-hungry who may carry an extensive library of apps, photos, and videos, to the more casual user. The absence of a microSD card slot for expandable storage is a point of contention for some. However, the generous onboard storage should suffice for most users, especially in an age where cloud services are increasingly prevalent for additional storage needs.

The Z Flip 5’s performance prowess is not just about raw power; it’s also about the efficiency and smoothness of the user experience. Samsung’s One UI interface, layered over Android 13, is optimized for the foldable display, offering intuitive interactions and a user-friendly experience that leverages the unique form factor of the device.

Features like Flex Mode, which splits apps between the top and bottom halves of the display when partially folded, showcase Samsung’s dedication to not just providing power but also enhancing usability through thoughtful software design.

Camera: competent but not class-leading

The camera system on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, while not breaking new ground, delivers a performance that is more than just serviceable���it’s downright enjoyable for the everyday photographer. The dual 12-megapixel rear cameras, comprising a wide and ultra-wide lens, capture images with commendable clarity and colour accuracy.

In well-lit conditions, photos are vibrant and detailed, showcasing Samsung’s ability to produce cameras that perform consistently across various lighting scenarios. The night mode also sees a slight improvement, allowing for better low-light photography—a welcome tweak that extends the camera’s versatility.

However, it’s in the finer details of camera innovation where the Z Flip 5 maintains a conservative stance. The absence of a telephoto lens means that users looking to zoom in on distant subjects will have to rely on digital zoom, which, despite software enhancements, cannot match the quality of optical zoom found in some of the Z Flip 5’s peers.

This omission is felt more keenly when considering the device’s premium positioning in the market, where expectations for a more comprehensive camera setup are naturally higher.

The 10-megapixel front-facing camera is adept for selfies and video calls, producing clear and flattering results. Yet, the true camera delight comes from the ability to use the main cameras for self-portraits, thanks to the cover screen acting as a viewfinder. This clever use of the Z Flip’s form factor not only provides superior selfie quality but also exemplifies the innovative spirit of the device.

Again, it’s a fusion of form and function that elevates the user experience, making the most of the hardware at hand.

Battery life: adequate but not exceptional

The battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a study in balance, providing enough power to get through a day but not stretching much beyond. The 3,700mAh battery is a modest offering in the current landscape where larger batteries are becoming the norm.

For the average user, this capacity translates to a day’s worth of emails, social media browsing, video streaming, and photography, all without the anxiety of a midday charge. However, it’s worth noting that ‘normal usage’ is a variable term, and for those whose phone usage leans towards the heavier side, the Z Flip 5 may struggle to keep up without a supplementary boost of power.

The charging speed of the Z Flip 5 is competent, with the ability to reach a full charge in about 90 minutes using a 25W charger. While this is not groundbreaking when compared to the ultra-fast charging capabilities some competitors offer, it is sufficient for a quick top-up. The convenience of wireless charging is also present, adding to the device’s modern credentials and providing users with an alternative charging method that fits seamlessly into a wireless ecosystem at home or in the office.

The adaptive battery software within the Z Flip 5 does its part to extend battery life, learning user habits and adjusting power consumption accordingly. This intelligent power management can help squeeze more life out of each charge, ensuring that the phone prioritizes energy for the apps and services you use most. Despite this, the reality remains that the Z Flip 5’s battery life is not its standout feature, and while it doesn’t underperform, it doesn’t dazzle either.

Price: innovation at a premium

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5’s price tag, starting at R 26,999, is a reflection of its position at the forefront of smartphone innovation. The cost is not just for the hardware but for the novelty and design ingenuity that a foldable phone represents. It’s a luxury statement, a piece of technology that doubles as a fashion accessory and a conversation starter.

However, the premium pricing also invites scrutiny and comparison with the top-tier devices across the smartphone spectrum. When matched against flagships that boast superior camera systems, larger batteries, or more robust displays, the Z Flip 5’s value proposition hinges heavily on its unique foldable feature. It’s a price that demands justification through daily use, where the convenience of a large screen that folds down to fit comfortably in one’s pocket must be weighed against the cost.

The Z Flip 5 does come with twice the starting storage of its predecessor and a suite of incremental upgrades that enhance its overall user experience. These improvements, while subtle, contribute to the device’s premium feel and performance, making it a solid choice within the foldable niche. Moreover, the cost includes not just the physical device but also the extensive research and development that has gone into refining the foldable technology to its current iteration.

For consumers, the decision to purchase the Z Flip 5 will come down to how much value they place on its foldable design and the flexibility it offers. It’s a device that stands out in a sea of standard smartphones, offering a glimpse into what the future of mobile technology could look like. For those who are captivated by this vision, the price may well be worth it. – GeekWire.co.za

[laurentgiret]

TikTok, the app that probably made vertical video somewhat acceptable is now optimized for larger screens, including tablets and foldables.

[mtjapblogger]

My thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

My primary phone has been the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, and it’s still a beast 1 year later. Samsung might have changed the name, but other than not having expandable storage, this is the return to the Galaxy Note that I and many others were waiting for. The S24 Ultra is one step closer with its flat display, which makes using the S Pen more enjoyable. In fact, the flat display is why a few years…

[caelyohann]

Thank you @enjoyglobe MyBusiness. I now have the complete @samsungph #Foldables. #samsungzfold3 #samsungzflip4 https://www.instagram.com/p/ClyUMPbhbSN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[sqwdkllr]

Hopefully it isn’t too late to say happy Independence Day ahhhh- have a silly comic about that funny joke that Mexican dads can use ANYTHING as a bottle opener

[theatrekidenergy]

GUYS!!!!!!!

HJDJSJAKAIWKWNNSOAOOW

[berntkat]

The Legend of Maneki Neko (Lucky Cat)

This comic is up on my patreon and website where you can view and download your own copy! The original comic was a small 4 page comic that I made for the Maneki Neko enamel pin collection. I decided to expand the story a bit in order for it to fit as a one page mini comic.