The South Korean multinational electronics company Samsung has launched two 5G-enabled foldable smartphones under its Galaxy series, including its first model that costs less than $1,000.
The company stated that the new Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 models have tougher casings, brighter displays, larger batteries, AI-powered cameras, and more user-friendly features. The South Korean company aims to increase the popularity of foldable technology and attract more clients.
According to the reports, the Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 will be available in the United States for $1,799.90 and $999.90, respectively. However, pricing in the Middle East region may vary slightly.
“These [foldable] devices have to be as durable as traditional flagship models [the Note and S series] to ensure consumers are not sacrificing anything as they move to foldable technology,” the company said.
Dr. Won-Joon Choi Executive VP Head – product R&D Samsung
“For the new foldable series, we had a big mission – durability … so that our customers can use them with peace of mind for everyday extended use. We started from scratch to make the impossible possible. We are able to deliver the world’s first water-resistant foldable smartphones by implementing the innovative sealing design … with all of these innovations, foldable smartphones are set to become the new standard in mobile devices as the category turns mainstream.”
Both phones include a new protective film on the primary screens that makes them scratch-resistant and up to 80 percent more resistant to normal wear and tear than earlier foldable devices. Both phones’ metal frames and hinges are made of a new aluminum armor technology that makes them 10 percent stronger than their predecessors.
Galaxy Z Fold 3
The new Z Fold 3 has a 19.3-centimeter screen that folds into a compact device with a 15.7-centimeter cover display. It has three 12-megapixel cameras on the rear and one 10-megapixel front camera. Its price is around $200 less than the Z Fold 2’s launch price.
It is powered by a 4,400 milliampere-hour battery that promises to last more than a day and weighs 271 grams. It has a greater storage capacity, with 12GB of RAM and 256GB to 512GB of internal storage. “The new Z Fold 3 phone will also support the S Pen stylus, a signature feature of the company’s premium Note series. However, users need to buy it separately,” the company said.
Galaxy Z Flip 3
The Z Flip 3 is a compact, palm-sized device when folded but its screen size more than triples to 17cm when opened. It weighs only 183 grams and is powered by a 3,300mAh battery. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB or 256 GB of internal storage. It has two cameras of 12-megapixels each on the back and a front 10-megapixel camera.
Mr. Bryan Choi, Executive vice president and head of strategic marketing of mobile communications division at Samsung commented, “With new phones, we are bringing foldable innovations to more consumers … by breaking down the barriers of entry, with prices starting from $999.”
“Samsung will be the leading and foremost provider [of foldable smartphones], driving volume beyond the market demand … I am confident that with our new series, we can drive record high demand for foldable, inviting more consumers to enjoy the new way of using a smartphone,” he further added.
