A Quick Review of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: The Future of Foldable Smartphones

In the rapidly evolving landscape of smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 stands as a testament to innovation, bridging the gap between conventional devices and futuristic tech.

With each iteration, Samsung has refined its foldable technology, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents the pinnacle of these efforts.

Released in 2024, this device is not merely a smartphone but a bold statement about where mobile technology is heading.

As foldable phones transition from niche gadgets to mainstream desires, many consumers are still grappling with the question: Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 truly worth the investment?

Priced at a staggering $1,900, this phone must deliver in terms of performance, design, battery life, and user experience to justify its premium cost.

In this article, we’ll delve deep into the Galaxy Z Fold 6, examining its features, strengths, and areas for improvement. We’ll also contextualize its place in the broader smartphone market.

A Glimpse Into the Foldable Future

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is the sixth iteration of Samsung’s foldable lineup, a journey that began with the original Galaxy Fold in 2019.

Each generation has seen improvements in durability, display technology, and user interface.

However, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 represents a significant leap forward, offering a near-seamless blend of smartphone and tablet functionality.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Design

At first glance, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a sleek, minimalist device. It has a distinctive rear camera array that resembles vertically stacked vinyl records — a design choice that adds a subtle flair without being ostentatious.

The phone’s overall aesthetic is understated, with clean lines and smooth surfaces that feel premium in hand.

This minimalism extends to the phone’s folded appearance, where it maintains a thin profile of just 0.48 inches, comparable to Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S24 Ultra, which stands at 0.34 inches thick.

When unfolded, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 reveals its defining feature: a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display that gives users the screen real estate of a small tablet.

This expansive display is perfect for multitasking, watching videos, or gaming. On the outside, the phone features a 6.3-inch cover screen, which has been marginally widened from previous versions, making it even more usable for quick tasks without unfolding the device.

One of the most frequent questions about foldables is, “How does it feel to fold and unfold?” The Galaxy Z Fold 6 answers this with a smooth, sturdy hinge that feels durable.

While it requires a deliberate amount of force to open, it’s not overly difficult, and the phone is clearly designed to be used with two hands in its open position.

However, for those who prefer one-handed operation, the device can technically be opened with one hand, though it might require a bit more effort.

Weight And Form Factor

In terms of weight, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is slightly lighter than its predecessor, the Z Fold 5, weighing in at 8.4 ounces.

While lighter foldables like the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Motorola Razr exist, the Z Fold 6 strikes a balance between portability and functionality. It’s slightly taller, narrower, and thinner than the Z Fold 5, making it a device that feels both familiar and improved.

The foldable form factor inherently raises concerns about durability. Consumers often ask, “How delicate is it?”

Samsung has focused heavily on strengthening the Z Fold 6, with improvements to the hinge mechanism and the display’s protective layer. While it’s not as rugged as traditional smartphones, it certainly doesn’t feel as fragile as earlier foldable models.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, a chip specifically designed to enhance performance in Samsung’s flagship devices.

This processor brings impressive speed and efficiency to the foldable, allowing it to handle everything from gaming to multitasking without breaking a sweat.

In benchmark tests, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 holds its own against other high-end smartphones. On Geekbench 6, it scored 2,135 in single-core performance and 6,544 in multi-core performance.

While slightly behind the Galaxy S24 Ultra in raw numbers, the Z Fold 6’s performance is more than sufficient for day-to-day tasks and demanding applications alike.

With 12GB of RAM, the phone excels at multitasking, a critical feature for a device that encourages users to run multiple apps simultaneously.

The large inner display allows for seamless switching between apps, and the split-screen functionality makes it easy to work on two apps side by side.

Whether you’re editing documents, browsing the web, or watching videos, the Z Fold 6 handles it all with ease.

For gamers, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers a premium experience. Titles like Genshin Impact and Asphalt Legends Unite take full advantage of the larger screen, offering immersive gameplay that feels more akin to a tablet than a smartphone.

Frame rates remain smooth, and the phone’s cooling system prevents it from overheating during extended gaming sessions.

While the Z Fold 6’s performance is impressive, it’s worth noting that Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max, with its A17 Pro chip, still outperforms it in terms of raw processing power.

However, for most users, the difference in performance will be negligible in real-world use.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s Display: A Visual Treat for the Eyes

The centerpiece of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is undoubtedly its 7.6-inch inner display.

This Dynamic AMOLED panel offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making it a joy to use for media consumption, gaming, and productivity.

Whether you’re watching high-definition videos or scrolling through social media, the display is sharp and responsive.

One of the key advantages of the Z Fold 6 is its ability to handle multiple apps at once. The large screen can be divided into up to four separate quadrants, allowing users to run multiple apps side by side.

For example, you can watch a YouTube video in one quadrant, browse the web in another, and chat with friends in a third.

This level of multitasking is simply not possible on traditional smartphones, and it’s one of the main selling points of the foldable form factor.

Display Media Consumption

In addition to its size and multitasking capabilities, the Z Fold 6’s display excels in media consumption. Watching movies or TV shows on the unfolded screen feels cinematic, with the expansive display providing an immersive experience.

The stereo speakers, while not a replacement for high-end audio systems, deliver clear and loud sound, making the Z Fold 6 a great device for watching videos on the go.

However, the inner display isn’t without its quirks. The most noticeable is the crease that runs down the middle of the screen where the phone folds.

While this crease is less pronounced than in previous models, it’s still visible, especially in bright lighting or when viewing content with a lot of white space.

For some users, this might be a dealbreaker, but for others, it’s a small trade-off for the benefits of a foldable display.

Another issue with the inner display is its tendency to attract fingerprints. The flexible material used for the screen is more prone to smudging than the glass used in traditional smartphones.

While this doesn’t affect performance, it can be a bit annoying for users who like their screens to remain pristine.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s Battery Life

One of the biggest challenges for foldable phones is battery life, as the large displays tend to drain power quickly.

Fortunately, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 delivers impressive battery performance, especially considering its size. In a 4K video looping test, the phone lasted for 19 hours and 28 minutes on a single charge.

This puts it significantly ahead of other foldables like the Google Pixel Fold, which clocked in at just under 11 hours.

While the Z Fold 6 doesn’t quite match the 25-hour battery life of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, it’s still more than capable of lasting through a full day of heavy use.

This is a significant improvement over previous foldable models, which often struggled to make it through a full day without needing a recharge.

For users who prioritize battery life, the Z Fold 6 offers a compelling option. Whether you’re using it for work, entertainment, or communication, you can be confident that the phone will last throughout the day without needing to be constantly plugged in.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s Camera

While the Galaxy Z Fold 6 excels in many areas, its camera system is one area where it falls short of competing flagship devices.

The phone features a triple-camera setup on the back, with a 50MP wide camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.

While this setup is more than capable of taking great photos, it doesn’t quite match the camera performance of Samsung’s own Galaxy S24 Ultra or the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

In particular, the Z Fold 6’s 3x optical zoom is a step down from the 5x optical zoom found in both the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

This means that users who frequently rely on zoom for their photography may find the Z Fold 6 lacking in this department.

The difference is especially noticeable when shooting distant subjects, as the 5x zoom on competing devices captures far more detail.

The Z Fold 6 still produces excellent photos in most conditions. The wide and ultrawide cameras perform admirably, capturing vibrant colors and sharp details.

In good lighting, the phone is capable of producing shots that rival other flagship devices. However, in low-light situations, the camera struggles a bit more, with images sometimes appearing grainy or lacking detail.

One of the more unique aspects of the Z Fold 6’s camera system is its ability to use the rear cameras for selfies. By folding the phone halfway, users can use the rear cameras to take selfies with the larger cover display acting as a viewfinder.

This results in far better selfie quality than the phone’s dedicated 10MP front-facing camera. While this feature isn’t exclusive to the Z Fold 6, it’s a clever use of the foldable form factor and one that selfie enthusiasts will likely appreciate.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Software Integration

Samsung has made significant strides in optimizing its software for the foldable form factor, and the Galaxy Z Fold 6 benefits from these efforts.

The phone runs on Samsung’s One UI, a custom skin based on Android 14, which is designed to take full advantage of the foldable display.

One of the standout features of the software is its ability to handle multiple apps simultaneously.

With the Z Fold 6, you can easily drag and drop apps into different parts of the screen, allowing you to multitask like never before.

For example, you can have a YouTube video playing on the top half of the screen while you browse the web or chat with friends on the bottom half.

The phone also supports split-screen functionality for up to four apps, making it an ideal device for power users who need to juggle multiple tasks at once.

Samsung has also worked with developers to optimize apps for the foldable form factor. Apps like YouTube, Chrome, and Google Docs have been updated to take full advantage of the Z Fold 6’s large inner display.

For example, in Chrome, you can open multiple tabs side by side, mimicking the experience of using a desktop browser.

One area where the Z Fold 6 could improve is in its handling of apps that aren’t optimized for foldable displays.

While most popular apps work well on the device, there are still some that don’t fully utilize the larger screen.

In these cases, the apps either appear stretched or only use a portion of the display, which can detract from the overall user experience.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6’s Flex Mode

Another software feature worth mentioning is Samsung’s Flex Mode, which allows the phone to be used in a semi-folded position.

This is particularly useful for video calls or watching movies, as you can prop the phone up on a surface without needing a stand.

Flex Mode also works with certain apps, enabling additional functionality when the phone is partially folded.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: AI and Camera Features

As with many 2024 smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes equipped with a suite of Artificial Intelligent (AI) driven features aimed at enhancing photography and productivity.

Some of these features are genuinely useful, while others feel more like gimmicks designed to capitalize on the current AI trend.

One of the more practical AI features is the Generative Edit tool, which allows users to edit photos by moving or resizing elements within the image.

For example, you can remove unwanted objects from a photo by simply tapping on them, and the AI will fill in the background automatically.

While this feature works well in some cases, it’s not always reliable. For instance, when attempting to remove a traffic cone from a street scene, the AI sometimes replaced it with a distorted version of the cone, resulting in a less-than-perfect final image.

Another AI-powered feature is the Sketch to Image tool, which lets users doodle on a photo and have the AI turn the sketch into a more realistic image.

While this feature is fun to play with, it’s not something most users will find themselves using regularly.

While features like Sketch to Image showcase Samsung’s commitment to integrating AI into the user experience, their practical usage is limited for the average consumer.

Most users will likely appreciate more grounded AI enhancements, such as Scene Detection and Auto HDR, which help optimize photo quality in various lighting conditions.

For example, the Scene Optimization feature can automatically adjust settings like brightness, contrast, and exposure to capture the best possible shot based on the detected environment.

These subtle and intelligent tweaks are more impactful for everyday users than generative editing gimmicks.

Note About Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 AI and Camera

It worth noting that Samsung’s Galaxy AI struggles in some areas, particularly when it comes to face unlock via the inner display’s selfie camera.

While the inner camera is hidden beneath the screen, it often fails to quickly and accurately recognize the user’s face in lower lighting conditions or when the angle isn’t perfect.

This can make unlocking the phone feel inconsistent compared to the more reliable Face ID on Apple’s iPhones.

Additionally, the Z Fold 6’s under-display camera leaves a small, noticeable patch on the screen, which some users might find distracting, especially when watching videos or gaming.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Multitasking and Productivity

Foldable smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 are built for productivity, and this device excels in enabling users to maximize their workflow.

The ability to run multiple apps simultaneously on the expansive 7.6-inch display makes multitasking effortless.

Whether it’s responding to emails while watching videos or using productivity apps like Google Docs alongside messaging apps like Slack, the Z Fold 6’s split-screen functionality transforms it into a mini workstation.

Samsung has optimized the interface to allow smooth multitasking experiences. For instance, you can drag and drop apps into different sections of the screen, snap windows into place, and even adjust the size of each window to fit your needs.

This level of customization is particularly useful for users who want to juggle between work and leisure activities. Samsung DeX further enhances productivity by allowing the phone to connect to external monitors, offering a desktop-like experience.

It’s a feature that’s increasingly appealing for users looking to replace their laptops for lighter tasks.

The taskbar at the bottom of the screen provides quick access to your most frequently used apps, making switching between tasks even more seamless.

This is especially useful for those who rely on a few core apps for work and want to hop between them without returning to the home screen.

The App Continuity feature also ensures that switching between the cover display and the inner display feels natural, with apps automatically adjusting their layout when you unfold the device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and S Pen

For note-takers and scribblers, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is compatible with the S Pen, adding another layer of functionality.

Whether you’re sketching, annotating documents, or jotting down quick notes, the S Pen transforms the Z Fold 6 into an even more versatile device that feels almost like a portable canvas.

However, unlike the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Z Fold 6 does not have a dedicated slot for the S Pen, which means you’ll need to carry it separately or invest in a compatible case that holds the stylus.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Durability: Is the Z Fold 6 Built to Last?

Durability has always been a concern for foldable phones, and with good reason.

The folding mechanism introduces a potential point of failure, and early foldable models were notorious for issues related to screen longevity and hinge robustness.

With the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung has made significant strides in addressing these concerns.

The hinge on the Z Fold 6 feels solid, with a smooth action that requires just the right amount of force to open and close.

Samsung has reinforced the hinge to improve its durability, and after a week of testing, it doesn’t show any signs of weakness or wear.

The phone also feels more resilient in everyday usage scenarios, whether it’s being carried in a pocket or placed on a desk.

Samsung claims the Z Fold 6 is rated for over 200,000 folds, which should comfortably last the lifespan of the device for most users.

The inner display, while still softer and more prone to scratches than traditional glass screens, has been upgraded with a stronger protective layer.

While it’s not as tough as the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus that protects the outer cover display, it does feel more durable than the screens on earlier foldable models.

That said, users should still exercise caution when using the inner display, as sharp objects or excessive pressure could potentially damage it.

Water And Dust Resistance

One area where the Z Fold 6 shows vulnerability is in its water and dust resistance. Like its predecessor, the Z Fold 6 carries an IPX8 rating, which means it can survive submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

However, the absence of a dust resistance rating remains concerning. The intricate folding mechanism and hinge design could potentially allow dust or particles to accumulate over time, which may lead to long-term wear or damage.

While this hasn’t been a widespread issue in short-term testing, it’s something that users should be mindful of, especially in environments with dust or sand.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is often a major concern for devices with large screens, but Samsung has managed to optimize the Galaxy Z Fold 6 to deliver impressive endurance.

With a 4,400mAh battery, the Z Fold 6 may not have the largest battery in the smartphone market, but it punches above its weight in terms of longevity.

In standard usage scenarios — including web browsing, video streaming, and light gaming — the Z Fold 6 comfortably lasts through a full day.

But what’s particularly impressive is how well the device handles intensive tasks. In a test where the Z Fold 6 looped a 4K video at 50% brightness, it lasted an exceptional 19 hours and 28 minutes.

This performance is remarkable for a foldable phone with such a large display and places it ahead of competitors like the Google Pixel Fold (which lasted just under 11 hours in a similar test).

For power users who frequently use the inner display for multitasking, watching videos, or gaming, the Z Fold 6’s battery life will still provide ample endurance.

However, those who rely heavily on the unfolded screen throughout the day may need to recharge by the evening.

The 25W fast charging support means that topping off the battery is relatively quick, though it’s slower compared to some of the ultra-fast charging technologies seen in other flagship devices from companies like OnePlus or Xiaomi.

The Z Fold 6 also supports wireless charging (at 15W) and reverse wireless charging, allowing you to power up other devices, such as Galaxy Buds or a smartwatch, using the back of the phone.

While not a groundbreaking feature, reverse wireless charging is a convenient addition for users who are already invested in Samsung’s ecosystem of devices.

Competitors: How Does the Z Fold 6 Stack Up?

The foldable smartphone market is still relatively small, but it’s growing rapidly. In 2024, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 faces stiff competition from other foldables, including the Google Pixel Fold 9 Pro and Motorola Razr.

Each of these devices offers its own take on the foldable form factor, and comparing them helps to put the Z Fold 6’s strengths and weaknesses into perspective.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google’s latest entry into the foldable market, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, offers an 8-inch OLED display when unfolded, making it slightly larger than the Z Fold 6.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also boasts Google’s Tensor G4 processor, which promises improved AI and machine learning capabilities.

However, while Google’s foldable offers excellent camera performance — particularly in low-light scenarios — it falls behind the Z Fold 6 in terms of overall durability and battery life.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s battery life is significantly shorter, and its hinge mechanism doesn’t feel as refined as Samsung’s.

Where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shines is in its software optimization. Google’s Android 14 is tailored for foldable devices, and the Pixel’s seamless integration with Google’s suite of apps makes multitasking feel fluid and intuitive.

That said, the Z Fold 6’s superior hardware, including its display quality and build, may still sway users in Samsung’s favor.

Motorola Razr

The Motorola Razr takes a different approach to foldables with its clamshell design, focusing on portability and nostalgia for the flip phones of the early 2000s.

The Razr is far more pocketable than the Z Fold 6, making it ideal for users who prioritize portability over screen size.

However, the Razr’s smaller display and less powerful internals mean it’s not as capable as the Z Fold 6 when it comes to multitasking or media consumption.

The Razr’s battery life is also significantly shorter, and while it does offer a unique design, it lacks many of the high-end features found on the Z Fold 6, such as the large inner display and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.

The Razr is a fun device for users who want a compact foldable, but for those who need a more versatile and powerful device, the Z Fold 6 remains the better choice.

The Final Verdict: Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Worth It?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a triumph of engineering and design, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile devices.

It’s not just a smartphone; it’s a hybrid that combines the best aspects of a phone and a tablet into one cohesive package.

For users who crave multitasking, productivity, and a large display, there’s little else on the market that can match the Z Fold 6’s capabilities.

That said, the Z Fold 6 is not without its compromises. The camera system, while good, doesn’t quite match up to the best offerings from Samsung or Apple.

The durability of the inner display is always a concern, and the price tag — starting at $1,900 — is steep, putting it out of reach for many consumers.

Ultimately, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a device for early adopters and power users who are willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge technology.

For those users, the Z Fold 6 delivers in spades, offering an unparalleled experience that blends productivity, entertainment, and innovation into one sleek device.

However, for the average consumer, the more affordable Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max may offer better value without the compromises of a foldable design.

In conclusion, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 sets a high bar for future foldables, and while it may not be the perfect device for everyone, it’s a tantalizing vision of where the smartphone industry is headed.

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