The Galaxy Z Fold 3 has Arrived, and Samsung Has Firmly Nailed Its Rhythm
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3 devices exemplify the transformative potential of flexible display technology, even in well-established product categories such as smartphones. After three years, it appears that Samsung is truly thriving with the latest iteration.
Enhanced Durable Screen with Built-In Protection
Upon initial inspection, the Z Fold 3 may not appear to have undergone significant modifications. However, some of its most significant advancements are less evident when examining specs. Samsung asserts that the Z Fold 3's flexible primary screen, retaining its 7.6-inch size, 120Hz refresh rate, and 2208 x 1768 resolution, is now 80% more durable due to the incorporation of a new factory-installed screen protector.
Moreover, this updated screen protector, now manufactured from PET rather than the softer TPU material, boasts increased stickiness, reducing the incidence of peeling and bubble formation. This was my primary concern with my Galaxy Z Fold 2, so this improvement is undoubtedly welcome.
Contrary to popular belief, the screen's crease is still evident. Image Credits: Sam Rutherford
However, the screen's evolution doesn't stop there. Samsung has implemented a Wacom digitizer layer within the Z Fold 3's screen, granting official stylus support to Samsung's premium foldable device. Although a new Galaxy Note is not due this year, this addition should appease those who appreciate the ability to draw or sketch directly on a phone boasting a screen this large.
In fact, Samsung has gone to great lengths to accommodate this preference, creating not one but two distinct styli suitable for the Z Fold 3. The first option, priced at $50, resembles the S Pen provided with a Galaxy Note, featuring an upgraded nib that automatically retracts upon excessive pressure to safeguard the Z Fold 3's flexible screen. For ardent S Pen users, there is also an $100 S Pen Pro variant, showcasing an extended length and compatibility with other Samsung devices supporting stylus input, together with a special toggle switch for use with the Z Fold 3.
Introducing stylus compatibility to a device boasting such a large screen has long been anticipated by many. Image Credits: Sam Rutherford
In practice, the Z Fold3's drawing experience remains somewhat nerve-wracking, mainly due to the screen's inherent flexibility, perpetually serving as a reminder that it is not a typical glass panel. Nevertheless, the convenience of jotting down notes and sketching on a tablet-sized screen proves to be an indispensable asset, despite the lack of a dedicated storage space for the S Pen Fold edition or S Pen Pro when not in use.
Enhanced Durability & Water Resistance
However, the most noteworthy improvements in terms of everyday usage are the numerous refinements Samsung has made to the Z Fold 3's durability. None of Samsung's foldable phones have hitherto boasted any water resistance, requiring users to handle the Z Fold with caution. Notably, the Z Fold 3 is now equipped with an IPX8 rating, allowing the device to withstand submersion in up to five feet of water for 30 minutes.
On the rear, Samsung has employed Corning's new Gorilla Glass DX to protect the Z Fold's cameras from scratches. In front, the 6.2-inch cover screen is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass Victus and boasts a faster 120Hz refresh rate. Samsung has also modified the Z Fold 3's hinge, incorporating more bristles to deter dirt and dust, while utilizing a new alloy called Armor Aluminum, which is reportedly the strongest aluminum employed by Samsung on any of its phones to date.
The sole new feature on the Z Fold 3 that has yet to fully convince me is the newly introduced under-display camera residing beneath the phone's flexible screen. Although concealing the Z Fold 3's interior selfie camera underneath its display should minimize distractions, the prominent camera punch-out remains discernible on both dark and light backgrounds, rendering the under-display lens' desired impact questionable.
Photo Credits: Sam Rutherford
The Z Fold 3's general appearance may not have undergone significant alterations, but the new gadget feels more robust and even marginally thinner, even down to a slightly reduced gap between its flexible display when closed. It is analogous to having clothes tailored to fit you perfectly.
I am also intrigued by Samsung's collaborations with companies like Google and Microsoft to optimize apps for foldable devices, with up to 50 adjusted apps available at launch and numerous additional improvements in the pipeline. In the interim, Samsung has delved into PC design by incorporating a new taskbar into the Z Fold 3's user interface, facilitating ease of use when multitasking.
As anticipated, the Z Fold 3 showcases enhanced flagship components, such as a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, 12GB of RAM, 256GB or 512GB of storage, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a triple rear camera setup (12-MP main, 12-MP ultra-wide, and 12-MP telephoto boasting a 2x optical zoom). The only element that hasn't been amplified is the Z Fold 3's 4,400 mAh battery, which surprisingly drops by 100 mAh compared to the previous year.
Still Crazy Pricey
Moving on to the price tag, it's a bit more budget-friendly compared to the previous Fold models, priced at $1,800, $200 less than its predecessor. Despite this, it remains out of reach for many, and I believe Samsung should aim for a price point of $1,500 or less to encourage widespread adoption. However, any price reduction on this cutting-edge device is undeniably advantageous given all the new features on the Z Fold 3.
Initially, I was drawn to the silver model, but now I'm having second thoughts due to its shiny bezels that sometimes compete with the screens for attention. Image credit: Sam Rutherford
The Z Fold 3 appears to rectify nearly every flaw or complaint I had about the Z Fold 2. It's more durable, robust, and now boasts genuine water resistance, minimizing fears associated with owning a foldable phone. Adding native stylus support to the mix, it seems the Z Fold 3 has finally transformed into the next-gen device that many power users and Galaxy Note enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting.
Consequently, one of the few persistent flaws of the Z Fold 3 is its rear camera configuration. The device is more than competent at capturing images and videos, but a piece of me yearns for Samsung to have incorporated the 5x optical zoom or the 108-MP primary sensor found on the S21 Ultra. Even on a $1,800 phone, it seems you can't have everything—not yet, anyway.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 will be offered in three colors, including matte black, green, and silver, with pre-orders beginning today. The Fold 3 will be available for purchase when it hits the sales floor on Aug. 26.
The tech industry continues to shape the future of technology, and Samsung's commitment to innovation is evident with the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Its enhanced durability, thanks to the addition of a more durable screen protector and an IPX8 water resistance rating, makes it a more reliable option for tech enthusiasts.
Moreover, the inclusion of official stylus support, with two styli options to choose from, caters to those who value the ability to draw or sketch directly on their devices. This integration of technology into theZ Fold 3's future is undoubtedly an exciting development in the tech sphere.
