Samsung’s latest wide foldable is arguably its most thrilling release to date. However, a troubling secret resides within the hinge.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a considerably shorter, stockier design compared to the book-style Z Fold 8 Ultra, allowing for a broader internal display that’s ideal for entertainment.
Nevertheless, it’s only capable of two positions: open or closed. This limitation puts it at a distinct disadvantage when compared to the Ultra. Allow me to clarify.
Who let the flex out?
On the exterior, both the Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra feature a highly similar hinge. Each employs the new ‘Flex Titanium’ design, contributing to a more robust feel and significantly minimizing the crease’s visibility.
However, the Ultra possesses a significant advantage. It allows users to open the device at nearly any angle between fully open and fully closed, akin to a laptop. In contrast, the Z Fold 8 is confined to the two extremes, meaning it cannot remain upright on a table.
Luke Baker
Consequently, you forfeit one of Samsung’s hallmark foldable features: Flex Mode. This elimination strips away useful functionalities such as hands-free video calls, instant camera previews, and easy group photos. Moreover, you miss a specialized control panel for apps like YouTube and Netflix, along with a separate gamepad for certain mobile games.
Kudos to Basil at tech_edit for highlighting this aspect first.
A potential dealbreaker?
Whether the absence of Flex Mode feels like a dealbreaker will depend on your phone usage style. If you’re satisfied with a device that functions solely as either a phone or tablet, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 will meet your needs perfectly.
However, if you appreciate the added flexibility of a display that can be adjusted to nearly any position and used hands-free, you will need to consider upgrading to the Z Fold 8 Ultra.
The rationale behind Samsung’s decision to exclude Flex Mode from the Galaxy Z Fold 8 remains unclear. The most plausible explanation is cost reduction, as the company would have to engineer an entirely new hinge amidst a worldwide RAM shortage that is significantly driving up tech prices.
Luke Baker
Nonetheless, this means that the hinge on the Z Fold 8 is a step back compared to the Ultra and every prior Galaxy Z Fold since the original launched in 2019.
The absence of a telephoto lens, along with this, seems to be the primary factors contributing to its £200/$200 lower price point.
Still, I genuinely enjoyed my time with it during my Z Fold 8 hands-on, even though the Z Fold 8 Ultra may be the pinnacle of foldables.
Summin’ Up: Bright Spark?
The Z Fold 8 is a fantastic choice for any foldable enthusiast, yet it feels incomplete without a biscuit alongside your tea if you cherish Flex Mode. It’s your decision: save some cash or invest in the fully-featured iteration? Cheers, GadgetLad.
