A foldable phone is exactly what it sounds like — a smartphone that can fold. Unlike traditional bar-type smartphones with a single, solid body, foldables feature a central hinge and two folding sides. The hinge acts as the axis for opening and closing the phone, connecting two displays that can merge into one seamless screen. Over the years, Samsung has integrated unique, cutting-edge technology into the hinge mechanism of its Galaxy Z Fold series, resulting in revolutionary hinge designs with each new release. Additionally, Samsung has consistently reduced the thickness of the Galaxy Z Fold series, making the phones increasingly portable and convenient to carry anytime, anywhere.
Samsung Newsroom recently reflected on the evolution of the Galaxy Z Fold series, highlighting its sleek profile and distinctive hinge design, which have become thinner, sturdier, and more compact with each iteration.
[2019] Galaxy Fold: The Dawn of Foldable Phones
Folding and Unfolding
• Thickness when folded: 15.7-17.1mm
• Thickness when unfolded: 6.9-7.6mm
• Weight: 276g
In 2019, Samsung introduced the first Galaxy Fold, ushering in the era of foldable smartphones. This groundbreaking device offered a natural, large-screen experience when unfolded and a compact, portable experience when folded. The innovative hinge technology ensured that folding and unfolding felt natural and intuitive. The inward-folding hinge provided robust display protection and a smooth, book-like opening action. With a maximum folded thickness of 17.1 millimeters, the first Galaxy Fold set a new standard for smart foldables.
[2020] Galaxy Z Fold2: The Era of Flex Mode
Hideaway Hinge and Sweeper Technology
• Thickness when folded: 13.8-16.8mm
• Thickness when unfolded: 6.0-6.9mm
• Weight: 282g
The Galaxy Z Fold2, released in 2020, elevated foldable technology with a sophisticated design and innovative features. The most notable improvement was the Hideaway Hinge, which allowed the device to be mounted at various angles, supporting Flex Mode for easy selfies and video calls. The hinge, comprising over sixty parts, featured a dual CAM mechanism that kept the device open or closed and supported wider angles. Samsung also introduced Sweeper Technology, inspired by vacuum cleaner brushes, to protect the phone’s display from dust and debris.
[2021] Galaxy Z Fold3: The Waterproof Foldable
Waterproofing Innovation
• Thickness when folded: 14.4-16.0mm
• Thickness when unfolded: 6.4mm
• Weight: 271g
In 2021, the Galaxy Z Fold3 became the first waterproof foldable phone, addressing a significant challenge for previous models. Samsung’s waterproofing technology protected the outer display and hinge from liquid damage. The hinge components were made from corrosion-resistant materials, and the terminal connecting the mainboards was sealed with a silicone-based gasket. Additionally, Armor Aluminum was used for the phone’s exterior and hinge housing, making the device thinner and lighter while enhancing durability.
[2022] Galaxy Z Fold4: A Slimmer, Lighter Hinge
From Rotating to Linear Motion
• Thickness when folded: 14.2-15.8mm
• Thickness when unfolded: 6.3mm
• Weight: 263g
The Galaxy Z Fold4, unveiled in 2022, featured a significant reduction in weight and thickness. Weighing 263 grams, it was nearly 20 grams lighter than its predecessor. The hinge was redesigned from a rotary to a linear motion, reducing weight, thickness, and the number of parts. This innovation resulted in Samsung’s slimmest, lightest hinge to date, while maintaining durability and providing a more compact and portable device.
[2023] Galaxy Z Fold5: The Flex Hinge
The Secret to a Fully Foldable Phone
• Thickness when folded: 13.4mm
• Thickness when unfolded: 6.1mm
• Weight: 253g
In 2023, the Galaxy Z Fold5 introduced the Flex Hinge, representing a leap forward in foldable innovation. The Flex Hinge allowed the display to fold into the hinge like a water droplet, eliminating creases and gaps. This new mechanism made the Galaxy Z Fold5 the lightest and thinnest device in the series, with a maximum folded thickness of 13.4 millimeters and a weight of 253 grams. The phone’s sleek, solid shape is appreciated from any angle, combining improved flexibility with a range of new features.
Each year, Samsung refines the Galaxy Z Fold series through precise engineering and meticulous manufacturing. The continuous reimagining of the hinge and device thickness has significantly enhanced the utility of the Galaxy Z Fold series. Samsung remains committed to advancing foldable technology, ensuring that these innovative devices provide even more convenience and functionality for users.
Discover the next generation of Samsung’s innovations at Galaxy Unpacked on July 10 in Paris.
