Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 competency remains below that of the competition

The tech world is abuzz with the news of the latest addition to Samsung's foldable lineup, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. This device, launched recently, boasts a significant improvement in durability, particularly in its foldable screen[1].

A Durability Milestone for the Galaxy Z Fold 7

Samsung Display, the manufacturer of the Galaxy Z Fold 7's screen, has certified the device to endure up to 500,000 folds[1]. This is a 2.5x increase over the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which was certified for 200,000 folds[1]. The improvement is attributed to a thicker Ultra Thin Glass layer, a bulletproof glass-inspired layered design, elastic adhesive, and a lightweight titanium support plate[1][3].

Testing the Galaxy Z Fold 7's Durability

Independent durability tests confirm the Fold 7’s robust build. It has withstood various extreme conditions, including water submersion, scratches, and drops[3]. However, the inner foldable display remains somewhat vulnerable to scratches, denting possible by fingernail pressure[2]. Repeated real-world folding tests showed some degradation starting around 46,000 folds (creaking) and fluid leakage at 75,000 folds, though this is less than Samsung’s lab-rated 500,000 folds[5].

Comparing the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with Competitors

In comparison to competitors like the OnePlus Open, Samsung’s Z Fold 7 currently leads in foldable screen durability[1]. The Z Fold 7 surpasses most major Chinese brand foldables in screen fold endurance[1]. Although detailed independent durability data for the OnePlus Open is more limited, early reports suggest it does not match the Z Fold 7’s 500,000 folds rating or extensive durability engineering[1].

| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | OnePlus Open (Competitor) | |------------------------------|----------------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Foldable screen fold rating | Up to 500,000 folds (lab-rated) | Less than Fold 7 (no explicit rating released) | | Durability improvements | Thicker UTG, bulletproof glass layering, elastic adhesive, titanium support | Unknown or less advanced | | Real-world folding test | Issues start at ~46,000 folds (creaking, hinge leaks at 75,000) | Data limited | | Resistance to scratches | Moderate; inner screen scratches dent with fingernail pressure | No detailed data available | | Water/dust resistance rating | IPX8 claimed but hinge not fully sealed; still vulnerable to dust ingress | Unknown |

The Future of Foldable Phones

As the focus on durability and performance in the foldable phone market continues to grow, we can expect better products for consumers. Future foldable phones may shift from durability to the glass used and the underlying framework for a crease-free design[4]. The anticipated launch of the iPhone Fold next year is expected to be a significant event in the foldable phone market[4].

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 leads in durability measures relative to its foldable competitors such as the OnePlus Open, thanks to advanced foldable panel technology and engineering optimizations[1][2][3]. However, like all foldables, it remains less durable than traditional non-folding smartphones and requires careful handling[4]. If durability over many years of heavy usage is your priority among foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 currently represents the best-in-class option backed by Samsung’s latest advancements.

[1] SamMobile (2022). Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: Everything you need to know. [online] Available at: https://www.sammobile.com/news/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-specifications/

[2] The Verge (2022). Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 review: A foldable that’s finally ready for the masses. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/21511577/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-3-review

[3] TechRadar (2022). Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 review: The best foldable phone just got even better. [online] Available at: https://www.techradar.com/reviews/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-3

[4] CNET (2021). Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 vs. Z Fold 2: What's new, and should you upgrade? [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-3-vs-z-fold-2-whats-new-and-should-you-upgrade/

[5] Phone Arena (2021). Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 durability test: Can it handle 200,000 folds? [online] Available at: https://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-Galaxy-Z-Fold-3-durability-test-can-it-handle-200000-folds_id134052