In the burgeoning world of foldable phones, Samsung continues to demonstrate its prowess as an industry pioneer with the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip 5. This sleek and innovative piece of technology not only irons out some design issues from its predecessor but also introduces a host of new features that significantly enhance its usability. The standout feature is undoubtedly the 3.4" cover screen, which effectively provides users with an additional half a phone’s worth of screen space. This is a significant improvement over the Flip 4’s diminutive window and makes the Flip 5 a more functional device.
The new Galaxy Z Flip 5 not only boasts a larger cover screen but also offers an improved viewing experience, with approximately 95% of the full rectangular area being viewable. This, coupled with the eight-button, customizable control center and brightness controls, makes for an incredibly user-friendly experience. Users can now conveniently get updates on the go without having to open their phones, thanks to a collection of useful widgets and a full keyboard that allows for the running of certain apps even when the phone is folded. Furthermore, this is the first model in the Galaxy Z Flip series to incorporate a proximity sensor and High Brightness Mode (HBM), offering peak brightness of 1600 nits for an impressively luminous display.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: The New Foldable Phone that Raises the Bar
Samsung, a pioneer in foldable phone technology, continues to innovate with the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5. This new model irons out some design issues from previous iterations, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable device.
Enhanced Design and Improved Functionality
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is its 3.4" cover screen, which offers almost half of an extra phone’s worth of screen space. This is a significant upgrade from the smaller window of the Flip 4. The viewable area on this screen is approximately 95% of the full rectangular area, making it highly functional with its eight-button, customizable control center, and brightness controls.
The larger cover screen also allows users to receive updates and run some apps without having to open the phone. This is complemented by the inclusion of a collection of useful widgets and a full keyboard.
Superior Display and Hinge Design
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the first in its series to feature a proximity sensor and High Brightness Mode (HBM), offering a peak brightness of 1600 nits for a brilliant display. Moreover, the redesigned hinge folds flat, eliminating the noticeable gap present in the previous version. However, the bulkier frame means one-handed flipping isn’t quite as satisfying.
While the annoying crease common to all foldable phones hasn’t completely disappeared, it’s less noticeable on the Flip 5, marking a clear improvement in design and engineering.
Performance and Durability
With a 6.7" main display and a 120Hz refresh rate, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 offers a crisp and responsive experience for video viewing and web browsing. The phone’s durability is also enhanced by the use of Armor Aluminum, which provides resistance to scratches and dents.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is powered by a superior Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, one of the most powerful on the market. Despite its impressive features, the always-on display does drain the 3700mAh battery quicker than expected.
Camera Capabilities and Fun Factor
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 boasts an AI-powered image signal processing (ISP) algorithm designed to correct visual noise in low-light images. This, however, was a hit-or-miss feature during testing.
One of the most fun features is the FlexCam, which, combined with the Dual Preview, allows for hands-free photos and videos and real-time adjustments for picture-perfect poses. The Flex Mode also offers a unique way to use apps in an L-shaped laptop mode, ideal for spontaneous livestreaming on Instagram or TikTok.
Competition and Pricing
Despite the rising competition from devices like the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra, Google Pixel Fold, and Oppo Find N2 Flip, Samsung’s head start in foldable technology keeps the Flip 5 at the top of its game.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is priced at £999 for the 128GB model, £1,059 for the 256GB model, and £1,199 for the 512GB model. It’s available now from Samsung and on all major UK networks.
My Takeaway
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a testament to Samsung’s continuous innovation in the foldable phone market. While it’s not perfect, with an average battery life and lack of dust resistance, the Flip 5 still stands out with its improved design and enhanced functionality. The FlexCam and Flex Mode features add a fun factor that makes this phone a cool gadget to own. The competition may be catching up, but Samsung’s advanced technology and design keep it a step ahead.
