The Galaxy Z Flip series has always been a point of intrigue for tech enthusiasts, including myself as the Mobile Editor at Tech Advisor. The latest addition to the lineup, the Galaxy Z Flip 7, has certainly piqued my interest. However, I still find myself questioning the appeal of modern flip phones in a world dominated by traditional smartphones.
One of the key selling points of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is its cover screen, dubbed the ‘FlexWindow’. This 4.1-inch display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and offers a larger canvas than its competitors. The addition of features like Gemini Live integration and the ‘Now Bar’ for quick access to information make the cover screen a standout feature for selfie enthusiasts. The camera enhancements, including automatic zoom adjustments and AI background detection, further enhance the selfie-taking experience.
Despite these advancements, the limitations of the cover screen persist. The inability to run all apps seamlessly on the smaller display remains a frustration, echoing past concerns from the Galaxy Z Flip 6. Samsung’s reluctance to address this issue in a user-friendly manner is perplexing, especially when compared to Motorola’s more straightforward approach.
In terms of durability, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 impresses with its ‘Armour Flex’ hinge and improved resistance to creasing on the internal display. However, its IP48 rating leaves it vulnerable to dust and smaller solid particles, highlighting a compromise in its design.
The camera setup on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is promising, with a 50MP main sensor delivering excellent image quality. The absence of a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom is a notable omission, particularly for users seeking versatile photography capabilities. The reliance on digital zoom compromises the overall camera experience, especially in scenarios requiring long-range shots.
Battery life has been a point of concern for the Galaxy Z Flip series, and the Z Flip 7 addresses this with a larger 4300mAh battery. While Samsung claims improved longevity, the 25W charging speed feels underwhelming compared to flagship standards, hinting at potential battery life challenges.
Despite these upgrades, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 retains its predecessor’s pricing, making it a more affordable option compared to the Razr 60 Ultra. However, the high price point may still be a barrier for consumers considering the flip form factor. While the Galaxy Z Flip 7 represents progress in the evolution of flip phones, it falls short of being a game-changing device in the market.
In conclusion, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 offers incremental improvements over its predecessor but struggles to justify its premium pricing. As I delve deeper into reviewing the device, I hope to uncover more insights into its performance and user experience. For a comprehensive look at Samsung’s new lineup, including the 7 Fold 7 and the 7 Flip 7 FE, stay tuned for my upcoming reviews.