Though folding phones are not that commonplace currently, the form factor continues to get newer models from some of the industry’s top manufacturers, and the intrigue from consumers is growing. But what are the pros and cons to be aware of, if you find yourself tempted to take the jump?
Although I won’t be going into detailed specs around the model I am basing my experience on, for the purposes of transparency the phone I have been using is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, whose folding abilities aside, has similar specs to Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S range of phones.
Well, those first impressions are mixed as you have the Fold in your hand. It’s the obvious novelty factor of how cool this new hardware is which dominates to begin with, especially the size of the unfolded screen and the flexibility it gives you. And as many reviewers have said, the mechanism of opening and closing the screen is strangely satisfying. The positivity does start to fade though, as the compromises come to the surface. The thinner/taller dimensions of that outer screen, and the fact that the Fold is bulkier, especially as we are now so used to very slim phones, does sting a bit. It does though still fit safely in your pockets and is comfortable to hold in the hand once you get used to it. Of course, I must mention that yes there is a crease in the middle of the display, which is more visible in some lighting environments than others, but it really does become less apparent over time and did not impact my enjoyment of the device in any way. So overall I was left feeling intrigued by this phone but wouldn’t really want it to be my main daily driver, to the point I had a label printed and was ready to ship it back. Over time though my experience of using the Fold day to day, allowed its undoubtable flexibility and benefits to really shine.
Firstly, I found owning a Fold encouraged less unnecessary usage, now this may seem a strange benefit, but hear me out. The smaller outer screen of the Fold is more than adequate for most tasks, be it calls, messages or casual web browsing, but it really comes into its
own when you unfold it for that amazing large screen estate. Nonetheless that isn’t something I wanted to do all the time, for example at work or at a restaurant where it can draw unwanted attention, and clearly highlight I was not engaged with my surroundings. This means I used the phone more as a communication device, and then only when unfolded did I embrace the multimedia delight it is. At a time where most of us are addicted to our phones, this made my phone usage more efficient and appropriate for a healthier phone/ life balance.
All that said, when you do use it unfolded, what do you get? Well streaming movies is a joy, most but not all streaming apps allow you to stretch to fill the screen, but even with some black bars on display, it looks great and allowed me to consume all my favourite shows in a completely new way. I travel a lot, so being able to use my phone to watch content when on a journey, is very enjoyable and means I don’t have to pack a tablet or laptop, therefore reducing my luggage. When I travel for work, I still need to take my laptop, but the Fold can stand in on many occasions. Emails, meetings, and any other business applications are well handled, yes a normal mobile can also do this, but the Fold bridges the gap between a laptop and a handheld device much better. When the occasion arose to show family/friends some photos, the fold was equally impressive. Due to its screen size, it recreated a nostalgic feel of the way printed photos used to be viewed.
Even using it at home, to view cooking recipes in the kitchen, gaming to pass the time, or even taking advantage of it as a second screen in the office, adds so much value and flexibility. In fact, the diversity of the Fold is its greatest selling point.
I had heard all the horror stories re earlier versions of the Fold and its fragile build. So, in the early days of owning the device I did treat it with kid gloves, but while like with any mobile care is required, I had no issues after a few clumsy drops or prangs. I would of course recommend a case as always.
The hinged design appears solid and well built, but only time will tell on its longevity. If you are like me and always want your devices looking pristine, the Fold is higher maintenance, as though dust and
water damage is kept at bay with its IP rating, the dual screens will get dirty and dusty on a more regular basis.
As much as I fill my house with technology, there is something very satisfying about having one gadget that serves the purpose of many. Yes, you pay more for that compared to other non-folding phones, and that price will need to come down to appeal to the mass market, but if you can afford the steep
asking prices around the £1500 mark new, you will not regret your purchase. Bargains are there to be had, too. I managed to purchase a refurbished Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 for around £600, which allowed me to try out this new technology and write this article. These phones are not for everyone and have the above-mentioned compromises, but, where evolution has slowed in other areas of technology, folding phone hardware will only get better over the coming years. Unfolding it is like a transition from a simple mobile device to a mini all in one home entertainment system.
I fully recommend you embrace this new technology and at least check out this unique device soon!
