Teh Rise of Ultra-Thin Smartphones: A New Era
In my recent reviews, I've noticed a interesting trend: two out of the last three smartphones I tested were remarkably thin. The Galaxy S25 Edge set the stage for this ultra-slim smartphone revolution, paving the way for the anticipated iPhone 17 Air expected in September. Following closely is Samsung's latest innovation, the ultra-thin folding phone known as the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
first Impressions Matter
During a conversation with Blake Geiser, Samsung’s Senior Vice President of Product Development in North America, I discovered that many users are surprised to learn that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 can fold. This insight came before I had my hands on it myself. Once I did hold it, I understood exactly what he meant: this device feels strikingly similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra and could easily be mistaken for any standard smartphone.
I recently published my review of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and found its design captivating. However, does its stunning look and agreeable feel convince those who have never used a folding phone to switch? To explore this question further, I showcased the device to over thirty everyday individuals—ranging from shopkeepers and taxi drivers to family members uninterested in tech—and recorded their reactions.
The feedback was enlightening; it confirmed Samsung's belief while hinting that this model might represent a meaningful turning point for folding phones as they gain traction in mainstream markets.
A closer Look at Design
The impact of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 on users is noteworthy; it's not entirely accurate to say it's unique—other models like Oppo's Find N5 and Magic V5 also impress—but it stands out as one of the first ultra-thin foldable devices most peopel will encounter.
Samsung aimed to create a phone that blends elements from both the Galaxy S25 Plus and S25 Ultra while incorporating an additional folding screen. In my view, they succeeded beautifully with this redesign. The camera system mirrors what you’d find on their flagship models too.
When unfolded, its thickness measures just 4.2mm—making it one of today's slimmest foldable phones—slightly thinner then Oppo’s Find N5 but marginally thicker than Honor’s Magic V5 at certain points. When folded up, it maintains an impressive slim profile at only 8.9mm thick while still feeling sleek like its non-folding counterparts.
User Reactions: The First Touch
The initial responses from users regarding how they felt holding the galaxy Z Fold 7 were quite revealing. We encouraged participants to close their eyes and focus solely on how it felt in their hands without any distractions from features or screens.
This exercise highlighted how well-hidden its unique capabilities are until you actually unfold it! Most participants praised its build quality and glass finish; many remarked that it felt lighter compared to their current devices—a pleasant surprise indeed!
The Unfolding Experience
A curious observation emerged during testing: most people didn’t promptly recognize that they were handling a folding phone due to its distinctive design elements catching them off guard when prompted with “now unfold it.” Each time elicited similar astonishment!
A notable percentage (30%) quickly recognized just how thin this device is once opened up; others described its appearance using words like “stunning” or “beautiful.” Interestingly enough though only about 13% expressed shock upon discovering that yes—it does indeed unfold! Some brand loyalty surfaced too; several Apple fans noted excitement but also mentioned Apple doesn’t produce anything comparable yet—a common sentiment among loyalists!
Creaks No More?
Seven percent noticed some creasing right away—a familiar issue seen previously with older models such as those within last year’s lineup—but would improvements made since then change opinions? Absolutely yes!
This time around when showing off various top-tier foldables previously available here stateside almost everyone pointed out visible creases immediately after touching them…until now! After experiencing firsthand what makes up today’s iteration—the crease seemed less noticeable altogether!
An impressive seventy-seven percent (23 outta thirty) couldn’t even feel where said crease existed when asked if they could run fingers across screens blindfolded! Only one person remained concerned about potential issues stemming from these lines which marks significant progress compared against past experiences shared by others before me!
Could this Be Your Next Phone?
I’ll admit upon first grasping hold onto our new friend—the thought crossed mind saying ‘this might finally convert someone into trying something different!’ After gathering insights through interviews conducted earlier nothing has changed regarding initial impressions formed thus far…but do these sentiments apply strictly towards existing Android/Samsung enthusiasts alone? Not necessarily so…
Our sample group included individuals representing multiple brands including both Apple & Samsung making up over two-thirds total surveyed population.
Results revealed stark contrasts between preferences shown by each camp—with eighty-five percent expressing interest wanting purchase options available despite knowing price tags attached versus merely twenty-nine percent coming forth willing consider switching sides altogether.
This suggests we’re witnessing perhaps first instance where consumers may actually contemplate moving away unless waiting patiently until next year brings rumored iPhone Fold launch instead.
Family Feedback Speaks Volumes
An overall positive shift occurred throughout entire experience leading us toward final thoughts shared amongst testers involved post-reveal session held earlier today: Eighty percent reported favorable opinions increased significantly after seeing large display coupled alongside learning more details surrounding product itself compared against forty initially held prior interactions taken place beforehand.</b></span></div><p><br /></div>And don't forget! NoveByte might earn a little pocket change when you click on our links helping us keep this delightful journalism rollercoaster free for all! These links don’t sway our editorial judgment so you can trust us If you’re feeling generous support us here.
