Samsung unveils latest foldable smartphones: lighter, slimmer, and AI-enhanced.

Posted on by Ibtehaj Tahir

Samsung Electronics introduced its newest foldable smartphones on Wednesday, unveiling a lighter and slimmer flagship model with enhanced AI functions to compete against Apple’s dominance in the premium market.

The South Korean tech giant also launched more advanced health monitoring features to drive demand for accessories like its smartwatches and a new health-monitoring ring that also functions as a screen controller.

Market Context

As the world’s largest smartphone maker and a pioneer in the foldable segment since 2019, Samsung faces increasing competition. According to data provider Canalys, Samsung’s share of foldable phone shipments dropped from 81% in 2022 to 63% in 2023. This makes Wednesday’s launch critical for maintaining its market position.

Key Features

Galaxy Z Fold 6:

  • Design: Lightest and slimmest version to date.
  • Performance: Enhanced with a longer battery life, higher resolution camera, and a new vapor chamber to keep the phone cooler.

Galaxy Z Flip 6:

  • Battery: Improved battery life.
  • Camera: Upgraded with a higher resolution.
  • Cooling: Equipped with a vapor chamber to maintain optimal temperature.

AI Enhancements

Samsung has introduced new AI functionalities, including:

  • Listening Mode: Provides simultaneous interpretation by voice when paired with Galaxy Buds earphones.
  • AI Search: In collaboration with Google, the phone can solve math problems and show detailed steps when circled on the screen.

Gemini AI Assistant:

  • Accessed by swiping the corner of the screen or using voice commands.
  • Integrated with Google apps to assist with writing, learning, and planning.
  • Enables additional functionalities such as finding information about songs or artists in videos using the “Circle to Search” feature.

Creativity and Communication

ProVisual Engine and Photo Assist:

  • Enables professional-grade content creation, editing, and viewing on the large screen.
  • Portrait Studio offers creative portrait styles like 3D cartoons or watercolor effects.
  • S-Pen support for drawing and converting doodles into images.

Barrier-Free Communication:

  • Interpreter: Facilitates natural interactions with translations on the main and cover screens.
  • Live Translate: Provides real-time translation of phone calls and third-party app communications.

Pricing and Availability

  • Galaxy Z Flip 6: Priced at $1,099.99.
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6: Starts at $1,899.99.
    • Price increase of $100 compared to last year’s models despite higher material costs.

Camera Specifications

Both the Galaxy Fold 6 and Flip 6 feature:

  • 10MP Selfie Camera
  • 4MP Under Display Camera
  • 2MP Ultra-Wide Camera
  • 50MP Wide-angle Camera
  • 10MP Telephoto Camera

Color Options and Display Sizes

  • Galaxy Z Fold 6: Available in Silver Shadow, Pink, and Navy.
    • Main screen size: 7.6 inches
    • Cover screen size: 6.3 inches
    • Battery: 4,400mAh dual battery with up to 50% charge in around 30 minutes.
  • Galaxy Z Flip 6: Available in Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue, and Mint.
    • Main screen size: 6.7 inches
    • Cover screen size: 3.4 inches
    • Battery: Same specifications as Galaxy Z Fold 6.

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