Little things mean a lot. Those already familiar with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 will immediately discern and appreciate the subtle yet significant tweaks in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. For the rest of us, it may just be the tipping point into the foldable universe. Here’s a rundown of what we loved about the latest in the Korean tech giant’s trailblazing innovation.
Form
The most obvious distinction from its predecessor is seen screen-wise. Although the ~88.8% screen-to-body ratio aspect ratio at 25:9 while open may seem a marginal difference from its predecessor, its greater screen real estate is instantly apparent when placed side-by-side with the Fold 3.
Just as welcome are the improved tactility and handling, thanks to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4’s more ergonomic features, including a slight rounding at the edges with slimmer hinges, which enables longer usage and comfort with less digging into the palm. The thinner hinges also allow for a wider outer screen display and for better grip and texting with one hand. Everything feels a lot more solid yet is paradoxically lighter than the earlier model by 17gm. It is slightly shorter too, so slipping it into back pockets or clutches is a synch.
Function
The Samsung Galaxy Fold 4’s durability is put to the test with the upgraded Gorilla Glass Victus+, which helps to reduce the usual petty annoyances of smartphones, such as scratches from keys and coins, or dings from accidental knocks.
It is also incredibly powerful and efficient, possessing the Snapdragon 8+ Gen1 chipset for lightning speed and super smooth processing. The new 1TB option lends the device even greater clout and potential.
Graphics have been suitably amped up with Dynamic AMOLED 2X plus a higher resolution of 2176 x 1812 (QXGA+) and 2316 x 904 (HD+) on the main and sub displays. The rich saturation of colours makes it ideal for media and gaming. Much has been made about the crease on the previous iteration, but Samsung has now made the crease less noticeable on the Samsung Galaxy Fold 4, quickly becoming a moot point the more we utilise the device and concentrate on the video or game. The under-display camera, too, is now cleverly camouflaged, being densely packed with pixels. Also notable is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4’s ability to go even brighter in terms of display, standing at a maximum of 1000 nits compared to the 422 nits in the previous model.
There’s also a marked improvement in the cameras on the device, with the 50MP camera in the rear that is on par with its S22 Ultra sibling – up a whopping 12MP from the previous model. The telephoto camera now stands at 10MP and has 3x optical zoom, a bump up from the 12MP, 2x optical zoom on the Z Fold 3. A 12MP, 123-degree wide-angle camera completes the trifecta.
The dealmaker, in our case, is the phone’s incredible ability to multitask, opening up to three windows and a number of pop-ups at any given time, which further reinforces the versatility of this gadget. A task bar now also appears at the bottom and side of the opened and closed screens for quick access to apps, a small but immensely useful feature that saves one from frequently clicking the home button.
Given its immense power, the battery life on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 seems a lot more durable and a full review will reveal all when we test the device to its maximum potential.
Finesse
The Galaxy Z Fold 4’s reputation as one of the priciest, most luxurious phones in the market is justified by its polished appearance and performance, as well as its good looks enhanced by four dignified, corporate-ready colours. Users are also reassured of its premium, solid feel in the opening and closing of the phone. Yet, its ability to stay open at virtually any angle lends the device a propensity for enjoyment, while its versatility enables countless permutations for gaming, entertainment and more.
Samsung has paid great attention to detail into the making of this latest version and the new refined touches have only emphasised the gadget’s fun and functionality, making it the perfect device for C-Suites on the go.
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 is priced RM8299 for 1TB (online exclusive), RM7299 for 512GB and RM6799 for 256GB. Colour selections include Burgundy (online exclusive), Graygreen, Beige and Phantom Black. Current rewards include a complimentary Galaxy Watch4 Bluetooth 40mm worth RM799, Samsung Care+ 1-year extended warranty worth RM599 and 3 protective film replacements.
