Samsung and Apple: The Clash of the Foldables
Just a few weeks after Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 8, their inaugural ‘wide’ foldable, Apple fired back with their own foldable introduction: the iPhone Duo. With Samsung’s display division providing the screens for the Duo, it’s clearly no coincidence.
While Xiaomi, Huawei, and Motorola are all engaging in this foldable wave, it’s obvious that Samsung and Apple are dominating the UK and US arenas.
I was thrilled with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 when I finally got my hands on it, just like our mate Luke Baker in his comprehensive review. However, there’s still potential for enhancements, for sure.
While Apple hasn’t ticked every box (telephoto camera, where art thou?), I’ve got my sights set on three iPhone Duo features that Samsung has overlooked.
Beach-Ready Design
A foldable without adequate dust protection is like a chocolate teapot. You never know when sneaky particles will spoil that hinge and send you into a spin.
After my beach mishap with the Galaxy Z Fold 7, I hoped the Fold 8 would remedy this. Unfortunately, it hasn’t. With an IP48 rating, it’s still vulnerable to pesky particles under 1mm – including grains of sand.
On the flip side, the iPhone Duo enters the prestigious category of foldables with a true IP68 rating, similar to Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold. It’s virtually dust-proof.
Although you’ll still need to monitor the hinge, a burst of compressed air usually resolves the issue. This allows you to enjoy the beach without fretting about damaging your device.
If you’re a beach enthusiast like me, this is a significant advantage.
Bring on the Magnets!
Samsung has been as obstinate as a mule about incorporating Qi2 support. A year after Pixel 10 introduced its ‘Pixelsnap’ feature, all Galaxy phones still require a case for similar functionality.
Foldables with cases? Nah, not the ideal combination. I’d advise going without a case on the Galaxy Z Fold 8. That effectively means forgoing a great technology.
Samsung might finally come around with the Galaxy S27 series, but we’ll likely be waiting until at least the Z Fold 9 for an integrated solution.
Fortunately, Apple didn’t lag behind. The iPhone Duo features full MagSafe support, ensuring your existing accessories still function.
It’s not just about convenient charging. The MagSafe ecosystem is loaded with accessories like grips, stands, wallets, and even fans. It’s as useful as a pocket on a shirt.
What a Flex
I was disappointed to discover the Galaxy Z Fold 8 skipped ‘Flex Mode’.
This key feature of Samsung’s foldables enables hands-free functionality for video calls, gaming, and streaming.
Apple didn’t repeat the same mistake. Their ‘StandBy’ mode converts the external screen into a smart display, offering a digital clock or photo frame.
The hinge even holds at any inclination, allowing you to customize your viewing angle while enjoying videos.
And if that’s not enough, Apple’s ‘Smart Take’ feature captures a photo when everyone is in frame, saving you from the frantic rush to beat the timer.
These oversights might fly in the UK, where the Z Fold 8’s starting price is £1,699 – a full £300 less than the iPhone Duo. But across the Atlantic, where both kick off at $1,999, Samsung has a tough road ahead.
Still, the iPhone Duo isn’t the only foldable standout released this week.
Conclusion
It’s Not All Sunshine!
So, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 might be the cream of the crop for some, but it’s evident Samsung needs to elevate their standards to match Apple. Until then, I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for beaches and magnets.
