Here’s a question for you: Will foldable phones ever replace regular glass slab phones? Samsung would love for you to say yes, while most people might say definitely no. However, until you’ve actually used one, I believe the experience might surprise you.
I’ve been using the Galaxy Z Fold 4 almost every day since it was released. I carry two phones, and this has always been one of them, whether it’s my primary or secondary device. Honestly, this is my first Galaxy Fold phone that opens like a book. Before I got it, I had some expectations about drawbacks and positives. Surprisingly, the drawbacks I anticipated turned out to be no issue at all, and some features I thought I would love, I hardly used. Instead, I discovered different benefits and drawbacks to foldable phones.
Let’s break this down in a friendly pro-con style.
Positive Aspect 1: Driving Experience
One of the first positives, though not the biggest, is how great it is for driving. Using Google Maps on this larger display is fantastic. While many people use Android Auto or CarPlay, not every vehicle has that. If your car doesn’t support these features, or if you prefer having your phone on the dashboard, the larger display provides extra options. You can even use a split screen to have a music app alongside Google Maps, which is really convenient.
Negative Aspect 1: Ergonomics
Now, the first drawback is the ergonomics. While I enjoy holding it for phone calls and appreciate the larger display, the front screen is too small for comfortable typing. When you open it, the large screen makes one-handed typing difficult. I found myself making a lot of typing errors, especially on the small front display.
Positive Aspect 2: Multitasking
Everyone talks about multitasking on foldable phones. Before I got this device, I thought I would always have two apps open side by side. However, I find that I prefer using one app in a larger layout. For instance, when browsing with Brave or Chrome, having a full view across the display makes reading easier, reducing the need for constant scrolling. This setup offers a more desktop-like experience, especially when planning something like a vacation.
Negative Aspect 2: App Compatibility
Speaking of apps, some applications don’t work well on this device. For example, I have an earbud tester app that simply won’t open unless I use a split-screen layout. It’s a bit frustrating, but I believe that as foldable technology advances, more apps will become compatible.
Positive Aspect 3: Unique Features
The ability to use the phone in a semi-folded state is another great feature. You can set it up like a tripod to film yourself or take group photos, which is super useful. You can also prop it up to use as a flashlight or watch content in tent mode, which adds to its versatility.
Negative Aspect 3: Video Aspect Ratio
However, there’s a drawback with video playback. The aspect ratio can be awkward, leading to large black bars on either side of the screen when watching videos. While the large display is great for viewing, it can feel like wasted space if you watch a lot of media.
Positive Aspect 4: S Pen Compatibility
Another positive is the compatibility with the S Pen. This allows for a large writing space, making it easy to read contracts, sign documents, and take notes. However, the pen is bulky to carry around, and the current design doesn’t allow for convenient storage. A built-in silo for the pen would be fantastic.
Positive Aspect 5: Social Appeal
Using a foldable phone is also a social experience. People are often curious and excited to see it, which adds a fun element to owning this device.
Negative Aspect 4: Snapchat Experience
On the downside, using Snapchat can be a bit awkward. The tall, skinny aspect ratio makes your snaps look strange, and there’s a missed opportunity to use the rear camera for previews. Instead, you’re stuck with the under-display camera, which isn’t ideal.
Positive Aspect 6: Durability
Many of the drawbacks I expected from a folding phone turned out to be non-issues. Durability has been great, and I feel confident about the fold count. The weight is manageable, and the thickness is still pocket-friendly. I thought the crease in the middle would be distracting, but I hardly notice it.
Negative Aspect 5: Dust Resistance
However, there is a concern regarding dust resistance. While I haven’t had any major issues yet, dust can accumulate in your pocket, and I’ve noticed some creaky sounds when opening the device. Only time will tell how this will affect durability.
In summary, there’s a lot to love about foldable phones, and some aspects I didn’t enjoy as much. The large display significantly enhances productivity for tasks like messaging, emailing, and browsing the web. The unique features, such as tripod mode, add to the experience. However, the awkward aspect ratio on the front and the challenges with the S Pen are drawbacks to consider.
So, will foldable phones fully replace glass slab phones? I don’t think so. I believe they will coexist for a while, and foldables will likely capture a larger market share over time. However, many people will still prefer traditional glass slab phones for various reasons.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on foldable phones. Do you think they are the future, or just a passing tech fad? Let me know in the comments!
