Oppo's new foldable phone is one of the thinnest I've seen - and I hope OnePlus and Samsung follow suit.
The Oppo Find N5 is a significant improvement in design, with its 8.93mm thickness when folded making it nearly indistinguishable from a slab phone, while still offering an impressive reading and browsing experience thanks to its 8.2-inch inner display and LTPO AMOLED screen. The phone's slim profile has made it feel like a seamless part of my pocket, with flat sides eliminating the gap between the folded sides for a more comfortable fit. However, some compromises are necessary to achieve this level of thinness, such as a less polished hinge that requires some getting used to.
This impressive achievement in design could lead to a new standard for foldable phones, pushing manufacturers to prioritize slim profiles and user experience over other considerations.
How will the adoption of thinner, more versatile foldable designs impact the overall design and functionality of smartphones in the coming years?
The Galaxy Z Fold7 is unlikely to surpass the display size of the Oppo Find N5, with recent reports suggesting that Samsung will only match the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition in terms of screen real estate. The device's 8.2-inch display was initially expected to give it an edge over other foldable phones, but it appears that this may not be the case. Instead, Samsung is reportedly opting for a more modest 8-inch display.
This decision highlights the challenges faced by smartphone manufacturers in balancing the need for larger displays with the limitations of production and supply chain constraints.
Will Samsung's compromise on display size ultimately impact the overall user experience and perceived value of its Galaxy Z Fold series?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is poised to dethrone the Oppo Find N5 as the world's most durable foldable smartphone, thanks to its superior hinge and brush structures. According to PandaFlashPro, the Galaxy Z Fold7 will feature upgraded micro brushes that minimize the chances of foreign particles entering the device's hinge structure. This upgrade is expected to enhance the longevity of the phone, potentially surpassing the Oppo Find N5's water resistance and dust resistance.
The development of more resilient foldable smartphones highlights the ongoing competition in the industry, driving innovation and improvement in material science and manufacturing processes.
What impact will this new generation of durable foldables have on consumer behavior, particularly with regards to device longevity and upgrade cycles?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, recently showcased at Mobile World Congress (MWC), is a game-changer in terms of design and portability. With an estimated thickness of 6mm, the phone is incredibly thin, making it an attractive option for those seeking a lightweight device. The S25 Edge's sleek design and near-bezel-less display are notable features that set it apart from its predecessors.
The significant reduction in size and weight could have far-reaching implications for the way we consume and interact with our mobile devices.
How will Samsung's focus on thinness and portability impact the development of future smartphones, potentially leading to a new era of form-factor innovation?
The Tecno tri-fold phone is a game-changer in the world of foldable devices, offering a unique form factor and impressive features at an affordable price point. With its 6.48-inch outer screen size, 10-inch display when folded, and LTPO OLED screen, this device is a serious contender in the market. The company's commitment to innovation and affordability makes it an exciting prospect for consumers.
If tri-fold phones become mainstream, how will they revolutionize the way we interact with our devices, particularly in terms of productivity and entertainment?
What role do you think upstart brands like Tecno play in shaping the future of smartphone technology?
The Samsung Tecno tri-fold phone is a rare demo at MWC that showcased the device's potential, with its 6.48-inch outer screen and 10-inch display upon folding. The phone's design is closer to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 form factor than other foldable phones, and it comes pre-installed with Google apps. Although the prototype had some software issues, it showed promising signs of what could be a revolutionary device in the world of smartphones.
If successful, Samsung's next-generation foldable phone could usher in a new era for smartphones, where the boundaries between tablets and mobile devices blur.
How will the affordable pricing strategy employed by Tecno to bring this innovative technology to mass market consumers impact the broader smartphone industry?
Tecno has revealed the world's thinnest slab phone, the 5.75mm Spark Slim, with a impressive spec sheet in its svelte frame. However, a new leak suggests that the much-rumored iPhone 17 Air could be even thinner, measuring just 5.44mm thick at its thinnest point. This latest development raises questions about the pace of innovation in smartphone design and the impact on consumer expectations.
The trend towards slimming down smartphones may have unintended consequences, such as reduced durability or compromised functionality, which could affect user satisfaction and loyalty.
How will the relentless pursuit of thinness influence the broader smartphone market, potentially creating a future where form factor becomes the primary differentiator over performance or camera capabilities?
The OnePlus 13's display is appealing enough in our review even without the matte technology of its rival the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra or the greater overall brightness of the Pixel 9; nevertheless, it might be on the way out in terms of traits passed on to its alleged successor. The 14 could also have an even bigger battery to go with its faster processor. Nevertheless, the more iPhone-like display type is thought to integrate LIPO technology to produce thinner bezels.
This shift towards flat-screen designs for flagship smartphones may ultimately lead to a blurring of lines between premium and mid-range devices, forcing manufacturers to rethink their value propositions.
How will the increasing adoption of flat-screen displays in high-end smartphones impact the overall aesthetic appeal of smartphone design, particularly in terms of brand identity?
Honor might get into the compact flagship Android smartphone trend this year, with a new version of its current Magic7 with a smaller display. The OEM's putative "OnePlus 13T" rival's main selling point might be joined by others such as an ultra-slim build in 2025. The habitually accurate tipster Digital Chat Station asserts that one of the OEM's next premium devices will have a display of 6.3 inches in diagonal length, just like the Xiaomi 15 and rumored OnePlus 13T.
As smartphones continue to evolve towards thinner and lighter designs, the proliferation of compact flagship models could signal a shift away from traditional bulkier phones, forcing manufacturers to rethink their product strategies.
What implications might the rise of miniaturized flagships have for phone manufacturers' approach to display technology, particularly in terms of optimizing power consumption while maintaining visual quality?
Infinix is showcasing a tri-fold concept phone that can somehow fit in your pocket, leaving many wondering what other secrets are being kept until this year's Mobile World Congress 2025. The company's unique spin on the ambitious form factor includes dual hinges that fold and unfold vertically into itself. While not the first phone with a screen that folds thrice, Infinix's approach is more akin to modern-day flip phones than tablet-style foldables.
This tri-fold concept has the potential to disrupt traditional notions of phone design, forcing manufacturers to rethink their approach to device portability and functionality.
How will the consumer reaction to this novel form factor influence the adoption rates of future foldable smartphones in the market?
Samsung Display has introduced a groundbreaking creaseless folding phone display, showcasing advancements that could redefine the Galaxy Z Fold series. This innovation addresses the longstanding issue of the visible crease in foldable screens, which has been a significant drawback for users seeking a seamless experience. Alongside the creaseless design, changes such as a traditional hole-punch camera and an expanded screen size further enhance the potential appeal of upcoming Galaxy Z Fold models.
The introduction of a creaseless screen not only represents a technical milestone but also positions Samsung to better compete with rivals in the increasingly crowded foldable market, potentially reshaping consumer expectations.
What implications will the adoption of creaseless technology have on the future design and functionality of foldable smartphones across the industry?
The new concept, called the Asymmetric Flip, builds on the Galaxy Z Flip form factor and theoretically removes the centre crease from a clamshell foldable. The device would leave a gap when closed, which could be a durability concern in a retail unit, but its taller design would defeat one of the major reasons for the form factor's existence. Samsung Display is developing tri-fold panels for both clamshell and book-style form factors.
This concept highlights the ongoing evolution of foldable display technology, where companies are experimenting with new designs to improve durability and usability.
Will the Asymmetric Flip design become a permanent fixture in consumer electronics, or will it be relegated to the realm of concept devices?
Infinix's ZERO Series Mini Tri-Fold concept promises a revolutionary new way to experience smartphones, with a device that can transform from a compact phone to a versatile, palm-sized tech companion in mere seconds. The design takes inspiration from foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, but with an even more innovative twist: by folding the screen accordion-like, Infinix creates a device that is both thin and feature-rich. With benefits such as a viewfinder for cameras on one side of the phone when folded, this concept blurs the lines between smartphones and all-in-one tech companions.
By rethinking the traditional approach to foldable phones, Infinix's ZERO Series Mini Tri-Fold concept could pave the way for a new era of flexibility in smartphone design, where the focus shifts from size to functionality.
As manufacturers scramble to catch up with this game-changing technology, it will be interesting to see how they adapt and refine the idea, particularly in terms of balancing features like camera quality and screen durability.
The latest leaked images of the Oppo Find X8 Ultra reveal a flat display and a new Hasselblad camera design, with a quick button for triggering the shutter. The device is expected to be launched later this year as a high-end flagship. Oppo has already confirmed its release plans for 2025.
This new design could potentially disrupt the trend of curved displays in flagships, offering a more modern and minimalist aesthetic that sets it apart from competitors.
How will the unique camera design and flat display impact the overall user experience and photography capabilities of the Oppo Find X8 Ultra?
According to a new report, Apple is hoping to launch its first foldable as early as next year, with a reliable analyst hinting at launch pricing and the device's form factor. The iPhone Fold will reportedly feature a 3:2 aspect ratio, with a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch foldable display when opened. Apple is expected to compromise on hardware features to achieve an ultra-thin profile.
As Apple prepares to enter the foldable market, it's worth considering how its design choices will influence the durability and usability of the iPhone Fold, particularly in everyday use scenarios.
Will the high price point of the iPhone Fold deter consumers from adopting a new form factor, or will the device's premium materials and features justify the investment?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a testament to Samsung's design prowess, offering a near-perfect blend of form and functionality that justifies its premium pricing. With its advanced features, improved display, and polished design, the Z Fold 6 has raised the bar for foldable smartphones, making it a compelling choice for those willing to invest in this innovative technology. The phone's ability to seamlessly transition between phone and tablet modes has also made it an essential tool for productivity and entertainment.
As Samsung continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the smartphone industry, its commitment to quality and design is inspiring other manufacturers to follow suit, potentially leading to a new era of high-end devices that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.
Will the success of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 lead to increased adoption of foldable technology among mainstream consumers, or will it remain a niche product catering primarily to early adopters and tech enthusiasts?
Samsung's latest OLED screen ecosystem concept wants to foster a seamless 'multiple screen experience'Power-efficient On-Cell Film (OCF) technology boosts brightnessIntegrated grip handle enhances portability. Samsung has introduced a concept that blends rugged portability with futuristic design - an 18.1-inch OLED portable monitor with a 4.5R folding radius, that transforms into a briefcase-like form with an integrated grip handle. Showcased at MWC 2025, this foldable OLED panel features a QHD+ resolution of 2000 × 3664 pixels, offering a high pixel density of 184 PPI, though Samsung hasn't yet confirmed commercial availability.
By redefining the boundaries between work and play, devices like Samsung's flexible briefcase could fundamentally shift how we interact with technology in our daily lives.
How will the proliferation of such versatile, portable display solutions impact the way we approach remote work, entertainment, and education on-the-go?
The Samsung Galaxy G Fold is rumored to be a game-changer in the mobile industry with its innovative tri-fold design, massive display, and advanced battery technology. The device's unique folding mechanism could potentially revolutionize the way we interact with our smartphones, while its larger screen and software familiarity make it an attractive option for businesses and professionals. Samsung is expected to unveil the G Fold at its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, but until then, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting more information about this groundbreaking device.
The development of tri-fold phones could accelerate the adoption of foldable technology in industries beyond smartphones, such as tablets, laptops, and even smartwatches.
How will Samsung balance innovation with practicality when it comes to designing a user-friendly and durable tri-fold phone that can withstand everyday wear and tear?
Tecno has challenged Samsung in Barcelona with its own tri-folding smartphone. The Phantom Ultimate 2 has a main display of about ten inches in diagonal length, yet can fold down to the size of a more or less average candy-bar handset just like the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate. The working prototype is also rated to be thinner and to have a higher-resolution display than that pre-existing device.
This bold move could shift consumer perception and market positioning for Tecno, potentially disrupting Samsung's dominance in the tri-folding smartphone segment.
Can the Phantom Ultimate 2's innovative features and specifications ultimately justify its ambitious price point and compete with established players in the premium smartphone market?
The rumored flagship phone may feature a 7-inch display, potentially becoming one of the first modern slab phones to achieve this size without sacrificing overall dimensions. The reduction in bezels could also lead to an enhanced user experience, as it would allow for more screen real estate without increasing the device's overall size. If successful, this redesign could solidify Samsung's position at the forefront of smartphone innovation.
A display of this size on a smartphone would require significant design compromises to accommodate its increased surface area without becoming unwieldy.
Will consumers be willing to sacrifice ergonomic considerations for the added real estate and potential multitasking capabilities that come with a 7-inch screen?
The new Flex G concept showcased by Samsung Display is a significant development in the company's quest to deliver its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy G Fold. With an updated design and reduced display creases, the Flex G may hold the key to making the Galaxy G Fold a reality. The device is expected to launch later this year, potentially rivaling the Huawei Mate XT.
This unveiling of the Flex G highlights Samsung's commitment to innovation in display technology, which will be crucial for creating seamless user experiences with its tri-fold smartphones.
As Samsung prepares to release its first mass-produced tri-fold smartphone, the industry is left wondering whether the challenges posed by this form factor can be overcome without compromising performance or usability.
The Nubia Flip 2 is set to be one of the cheapest foldable smartphones on the market when it launches globally, with a confirmed MSRP of €699 that includes 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. The device boasts an improved performance courtesy of a MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chipset and a larger cover display measuring 1.43 inches across with a native resolution of 682 x 422 pixels. However, the price tag may deter some buyers, considering it is comparable to the Motorola Razr 50 when its predecessor launched last year.
The Flip 2's pricing strategy suggests Nubia is aiming to democratize access to foldable technology, potentially disrupting the premium nature of this emerging market segment.
How will Nubia's affordability approach impact the mass adoption of foldable smartphones in emerging markets where budget-friendly options are scarce?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to be the last of the four flagship Galaxy S25 handsets to get a full launch, with details suggesting it will weigh in at 162 grams and have a thickness of 5.84 mm, matching its standard counterpart. The phone's price is reportedly similar to that of the Galaxy S25 Plus, which starts at $999 / £999 / AU$1,699. An official rendering has also been shared, showing the bezels of the Galaxy S25 Edge will be the same size as those on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
This leak might signal a trend in smartphone design where manufacturers prioritize slenderness and portability over traditional form factors.
What impact will the increasing focus on ultra-thin smartphones have on consumer behavior and expectations for future devices, particularly in terms of display quality and camera performance?
At MWC 2024, ZTE subsidiary Nubia unveiled the Nubia Flip 5G, a bona fide budget alternative to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. Now, at MWC 2025, Nubia has returned with the Nubia Flip 2 5G – a slightly more expensive model that still undercuts its premium competition by some margin. The new phone boasts a more conventional-looking design, improved durability, and AI-powered features, while maintaining its affordable price point.
This latest iteration of the Nubia Flip series cements the brand's position as a formidable challenger in the premium flip phone market, where innovative designs and affordable prices are key to success.
As the smartphone industry continues to evolve, how will the appeal of stylish, compact flip phones like the Nubia Flip 2 5G endure against the growing trend of foldable displays and larger screens?
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be Apple's thinnest phone yet, potentially measuring just 5.5mm thick, surpassing the previous record held by the iPhone 6. Recent leaks suggest that the phone will feature a design closely resembling the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a larger 6.9-inch screen and a Google Pixel-like camera bar on the back. As Apple gears up for its typical September unveiling, these design hints raise anticipation for a significant aesthetic evolution in the iPhone lineup.
The shift towards thinner designs and innovative aesthetics may redefine user expectations for functionality and style in smartphones, reflecting a broader trend in consumer electronics.
What impact will the design changes of the iPhone 17 Air have on user experience and competition with other smartphone brands?
MWC 2025 has seen some impressive product announcements from top industry leaders. Xiaomi's latest smartphone, the 15 Ultra, boasts a 200-megapixel periscope sensor that excels at capturing portrait photos and retaining details in low-lit environments. Lenovo's concept laptops, including a solar-powered Yoga laptop and a ThinkBook with an elongated display, showcase the company's ambition to innovate. The Modular Optical System on the Xiaomi 15 smartphone also enables users to swap out different camera modules quickly and easily. Tecno's new phone, the Spark Slim, is ultra-thin and packs an even more powerful battery than expected.
As mobile technology continues to advance, it will be crucial for companies like Xiaomi and Lenovo to prioritize innovation and user experience in their products.
How will the increasing demand for ultrathin smartphones impact the industry's focus on design and manufacturing efficiency?