Samsung has been a leader in the foldable smartphone market since the launch of the Galaxy Fold in 2019. Now, the company is preparing to release the next-generation Galaxy Z Fold5, which is expected to compete with the Pixel Fold from Google. In this review, we will take a closer look at the design, specifications, and features of the Galaxy Z Fold5 based on the high-resolution renders and 360-degree video shared by @OnLeaks and SmartPrix.
Design:
The Galaxy Z Fold5's design is very similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold4. It features a large 7.6-inch foldable display when unfolded, and a smaller 6.2-inch external display when folded. However, @OnLeaks reports that the Galaxy Z Fold5 is slightly smaller and thinner than its predecessor, with dimensions of 154.9 x 129.9 x 6.3 mm when unfolded and 67.1 x 158.2 x 13.5 mm when folded. The reduced thickness is due to a new waterdrop hinge design that replaces the tapered hinge of the Galaxy Z Fold4. The waterdrop hinge also allows the phone to be opened and closed more easily.
The Galaxy Z Fold5 has a glass back panel and a metal frame, similar to previous Galaxy Fold models. It also features a triple-camera setup on the rear, with a relocated LED flash module. However, it remains to be seen whether Samsung will upgrade the camera sensors for the Galaxy Z Fold5, although the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset and its newer ISP could deliver minor camera performance improvements.
Display:
The Galaxy Z Fold5's display is its most significant feature, with a large 7.6-inch foldable Dynamic AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels when unfolded. The external display is also upgraded to a 6.2-inch Super AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2268 x 832 pixels. Both displays are expected to support a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother animations and scrolling.
The foldable display of the Galaxy Z Fold5 is protected by ultra-thin glass, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold3. This provides better protection against scratches and damages compared to the plastic-based displays of earlier foldable smartphones. The Galaxy Z Fold5 also features Samsung's proprietary Flex mode, which allows apps to be split and used on both halves of the screen simultaneously.
Performance:
The Galaxy Z Fold5 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, which is an upgraded version of the Snapdragon 888. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset offers improved performance and power efficiency, which should result in better overall performance and longer battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold5 is also expected to come with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.
Battery and Charging:
The Galaxy Z Fold5 is expected to have a 4400mAh battery, which is slightly smaller than the 4500mAh battery of its predecessor. However, the improved power efficiency of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset should result in similar or better battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold5 is expected to support 25W fast charging and 11W wireless charging, as well as reverse wireless charging.
Software:
The Galaxy Z Fold5 is expected to come with Samsung's One UI 3.5 software based on Android 11. One UI 3.5 offers several new features and improvements, including an updated Samsung Keyboard, a new Google Assistant shortcut on the power button, and more customization options. The Galaxy Z Fold5 should also receive at least two major Android OS updates, similar to other high-end Samsung smartphones.