Foldable technology, once a concept confined to science fiction, has rapidly become a significant milestone in the evolution of the mobile industry. Samsung, a pioneer in this field, has been at the forefront of this transformation. But what exactly is a foldable phone? A foldable phone features a central hinge and two folding sides, allowing the device to fold and unfold seamlessly. Unlike traditional smartphones, foldables offer a unique user experience with a combination of a large display when open and a compact form when closed.
Revolutionary Hinge Technology
Samsung has consistently introduced cutting-edge technology into the hinge mechanism of its Galaxy Z Fold series. Over time, the company has refined this technology to create a revolutionary hinge design with each new release. This focus on innovation has allowed Samsung to reduce the thickness of the Galaxy Z Fold series, making these devices more portable and convenient for everyday use.
The Galaxy Fold: A New Era Begins
The Galaxy Fold, unveiled in 2019, marked the beginning of a new era in mobile technology. It featured a groundbreaking form factor that provided a big-screen experience when unfolded and a compact, portable design when folded. This innovative device introduced a new category of mobile interaction, with a hinge that felt natural and intuitive. The inward-folding hinge not only offered robust display protection but also made the phone easy to use and convenient to carry.
Advancing with the Galaxy Z Fold2
In 2020, Samsung released the Galaxy Z Fold2, which took foldable technology to the next level with a sophisticated and refined design. The most notable feature was the Hideaway Hinge, which supported stable folding and unfolding while maintaining a sleek appearance. This hinge allowed the device to be used at various angles, making it easier to take selfies and make video calls in Flex Mode. The Galaxy Z Fold2 also featured a 6.2-inch external display for enhanced usability.
Innovations in the Galaxy Z Fold3
The Galaxy Z Fold3, released in 2021, was the first foldable device to achieve water resistance, addressing one of the biggest challenges faced by previous models. Samsung applied waterproofing technology to both the outer display and the hinge, using corrosion-resistant materials and a silicone-based seal to protect the device from liquids. The introduction of Armor Aluminum helped make the Galaxy Z Fold3 thinner and lighter, while the Sweeper Technology evolved to provide better protection against dust and debris.
Lighter and Thinner: The Galaxy Z Fold4
Unveiled in 2022, the Galaxy Z Fold4 saw a significant reduction in weight and thickness. At 263 grams, it was nearly 20 grams lighter than its predecessor. The new hinge design allowed for a more compact and portable device, with a maximum folded thickness of just 15.8 millimeters. Samsung’s shift from rotary to linear hinge motion reduced the weight and number of parts, improving both manufacturing efficiency and device resilience.
Introducing the Flex Hinge with Galaxy Z Fold5
In 2023, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Fold5, featuring the next generation of foldable technology with the new Flex Hinge. This innovative mechanism allowed the display to curl into the hinge like a water droplet, using four drive shafts and a dual rail structure. The result was a device that folded evenly without any creases or gaps. The Galaxy Z Fold5 became the lightest and thinnest model in the series, with a maximum thickness of 13.4 millimeters and a weight of 253 grams.
A Legacy of Innovation
Each year, Samsung refines the Galaxy Z Fold series through precise engineering and meticulous manufacturing processes. By continuously reimagining the hinges and reducing device thickness, Samsung has enhanced the utility and convenience of its foldable phones. The company remains committed to building on its legacy of innovation, ensuring that more people can enjoy the benefits of foldable technology in their daily lives.
