Leaked Galaxy Z Flip5 Prototype... Larger External Display
Hinge Improved for Better Usability
Will It Set a Record with 10 Million Units Sold?
Samsung Electronics' smartphone new product launch event, 'Galaxy Unpacked,' is about a month away. The new Galaxy Z Fold and Flip 5 are evaluated as products that will lead the era of foldable popularization.
On the 25th (local time), IT specialized media SamMobile cited tipster Revegnus (@Tech_Reve) and released photos presumed to be of the actual Galaxy Z Flip 5 device. In the photos, the fingerprint sensor, a larger cover display, and a hinge that is flatter than the previous model can be seen.
The biggest difference between the Galaxy Z5 series and its predecessor is the hinge. Previously, a U-shaped hinge was applied, which caused the screen to have wrinkles when unfolded and did not fully adhere when folded, causing lifting. The new model is known to apply a waterdrop-shaped hinge for the first time. The waterdrop hinge folds the display inward in a waterdrop shape. This creates wider wrinkles and allows the screen to close completely. Also, unlike the previous model which only offered water resistance, the new model is expected to provide dust resistance as well.
The biggest change is that the Flip 5's front cover display grows from 1.9 inches to 3.4 inches. The small cover display could only perform simple functions. However, the Flip 5 cover display is known to be able to run apps such as Google Maps and YouTube. In other words, it will be possible to watch YouTube while the device is folded. Recently, Chinese manufacturers like Oppo and Vivo have been increasing the size of external displays. Motorola recently enabled app usage on the cover display of its newly released foldable smartphone.
The Fold 5 is reported to have reduced its biggest drawback, heavy weight, compared to its predecessor. The bezel has also become thinner. Although the changes are not as significant as the Flip 5, the price is expected to drop. Revegnus previously stated on his Twitter that the Flip 5 price will be the same as the previous model, but the Fold 5 price will be slightly reduced compared to its predecessor.
The colors will also be more diverse. The Flip 5 is expected to offer a choice among eight colors: Cream, Coral, Diamond, Graphite, Misty Green, and online-exclusive Blue, Platinum, and Yellow. The Fold 5 will have six colors: Cream, Diamond, Phantom Black, and online-exclusive Blue, Coral, and Platinum.
The era of foldable phone popularization is coming. The Galaxy Z5 series is the product leading this popularization era. Market research firm TrendForce predicted that the overall smartphone market will stagnate this year, similar to last year, but foldable phone shipments will increase by 55% from last year's 12.8 million units to 19.8 million units. Recently, Hyundai Motor Securities released a report stating that the Galaxy Z5 series will sell 10 million units within the year.
Samsung Electronics plans to hold the 'Galaxy Unpacked' event for the first time in Korea at the end of next month and showcase its flagship products for the second half of the year. Although the official date has not been announced, the industry expects the event to be held around the 26th, with sales starting about two weeks later.
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