Phones Folding phones the next frontier

[JiggyJaggy]

I'm loving this Graphite colour. Looks so slick if someone wants a business looking colour.

 

[Bkdodger]

Verizon has the lavender on display, The lighting in the corner over here makes it a little tough to appreciate as much.

 

[Cuesca]

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I have it on my ZF7 for almost a year now, I love mine. I kinda wish I had this code a year ago though.

 

[Bkdodger]

I have it on my ZF7 for almost a year now, I love mine. I kinda wish I had this code a year ago though.

It's the only case I use on my seven right now and I think I got a 30% off last year as well, any new phone release? They normally let you sign up and will notify you when the discount code is ready

 

[contacos]

My Fold8 is arriving on Tuesday 🙌🏼

 

[Ludatyk]

I played with the Fold8 today (they have it on display at a German store called Saturn). It's... really cute (?). I don't think you realize how small it feels compared to the Fold7 🫨. I don't know how to put it into words, it comes across as a fun gadget, not a 'regular phone.' Damn, I wish these devices weren't so expensive, I'd love to rock it completely naked, without any case on it, it just feels so nice in hand. Also, the crease does feel a lot more subtle and the screen less reflective, stoked about that!

Yeah, I'm going naked... granted I'll use a skin. But that's more so to add adhesive MagSafe adapter, plan on buying a Care Plus anyways.

Photos that fill the whole display look amazing. But honestly, I think we'll end up using the device unfolded way more than the Fold7.

I'm coming from the Fold 6, so can't really share any experiences for those who had the Fold 7 (which that had a larger outer display). I used mine unfolded often... as I stated earlier in the thread, outer screen was for quick interaction. But I think this new form factor will get me to use the outer display more.

When it arrives... I'll put it through it's paces to determine how I will use it going forward, but I'm leaning on taking full advantage of the outer screen. Perhaps, it will results in longer battery life.

 

[Bkdodger]

It’s not a big deal to me since I use headphones, but the speaker is being on the left side while the phone is opened. It’s kind of a bummer granted you can rotate and then you have stereo on each side, but not in normal wide mode.

 

[Ludatyk]

It’s not a big deal to me since I use headphones, but the speaker is being on the left side while the phone is opened. It’s kind of a bummer granted you can rotate and then you have stereo on each side, but not in normal wide mode.

Yeah, Shane mentioned that awhile back when CAD images started showing up. It’s the number one reason why he can’t call it the best foldable due to Samsung decision with placing both speakers on one side… since other OEMs have them placed differently.

But similar to yourself… I use headphones, either I have some wired headphones (Sony XB55’s) or my Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

 

[scott craft]

It’s not a big deal to me since I use headphones, but the speaker is being on the left side while the phone is opened. It’s kind of a bummer granted you can rotate and then you have stereo on each side, but not in normal wide mode.

Yes that decision was a total head scratcher. I use hearing aids so mostly wouldn't affect me but for those that use the phone speakers it's annoying.

 

[Bkdodger]

Yeah, Shane mentioned that awhile back when CAD images started showing up. It’s the number one reason why he can’t call it the best foldable due to Samsung decision with placing both speakers on one side… since other OEMs have them placed differently.

But similar to yourself… I use headphones, either I have some wired headphones (Sony XB55’s) or my Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

Exactly most use cases. We're okay, but it's nice to sometimes watch something without them. Or if you're showing a friend something like a YouTube video, the sound comes out of one side which is not ideal.

Yes that decision was a total head scratcher. I use hearing aids so mostly wouldn't affect me but for those that use the phone speakers it's annoying.

They definitely didn't think that out. It would make sense to have one on each side, especially as I mentioned, if you're watching a YouTube video, you're not going to rotate the phone. You're going to open it in that landscape mode.

 

[Ludatyk]

They definitely didn't think that out. It would make sense to have one on each side, especially as I mentioned, if you're watching a YouTube video, you're not going to rotate the phone. You're going to open it in that landscape mode.

I don't know... these are some highly capable engineers, they probably went through over hundred prototypes. Ever since the 1st generation... unless I'm mistaken, it's always been that way. And when you pay close attention to how the speaker are laid out... it's very deliberate (even the punch out holes).

If Samsung were to rearrange them... then where would they be placed, because from a design standpoint it seems to fit.

 

[Bkdodger]

I don't know... these are some highly capable engineers, they probably went through over hundred prototypes. Ever since the 1st generation... unless I'm mistaken, it's always been that way. And when you pay close attention to how the speaker are laid out... it's very deliberate (even the punch out holes).

If Samsung were to rearrange them... then where would they be placed, because from a design standpoint it seems to fit.

I will have to test out my Fold 7 against Fold 8 side by side, just felt different to me but maybe I'm coming in prejudging

 

[Bkdodger]

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[scott craft]

I don't know... these are some highly capable engineers, they probably went through over hundred prototypes. Ever since the 1st generation... unless I'm mistaken, it's always been that way. And when you pay close attention to how the speaker are laid out... it's very deliberate (even the punch out holes).

If Samsung were to rearrange them... then where would they be placed, because from a design standpoint it seems to fit.

Pretty sure this is how it is on my ZF5. But all the folds except the new Fold 8 need to be turned for optimal video which makes the speakers in the correct place, but I think the Fold 8 should have the speakers so it's stereo when open without rotating it.

 

[TPadden]

Pretty sure this is how it is on my ZF5. But all the folds except the new Fold 8 need to be turned for optimal video which makes the speakers in the correct place, but I think the Fold 8 should have the speakers so it's stereo when open without rotating it.

Everything is relative and a compromise. I plan on using the Fold 8 handheld open landscape sometimes (perhaps a lot) and the speakers top and bottom won't be blocked by my hand. My Fold 7 was almost never used handheld open in landscape but if it was one speaker would be blocked by my hand, in open portrait speakers were top and bottom.

Tom

 

[aggie99]

I usually buy unlocked but it’s crazy I can get $1900 trade in for my Pixel 10 Pro XL from AT&T. I was going to just wait for the foldable iPhone but I may have to give the ZF8 a try if I’m basically getting it for free

 

[NeonNights]

I usually buy unlocked but it’s crazy I can get $1900 trade in for my Pixel 10 Pro XL from AT&T. I was going to just wait for the foldable iPhone but I may have to give the ZF8 a try if I’m basically getting it for free

That is nuts. Why would ATT do that? Isn't that double what a new 10 Pro XL costs?

 

[Ludatyk]

I usually buy unlocked but it’s crazy I can get $1900 trade in for my Pixel 10 Pro XL from AT&T. I was going to just wait for the foldable iPhone but I may have to give the ZF8 a try if I’m basically getting it for free

Yeah, i mentioned earlier in the thread… its a great deal. But those carrier-branded phones come with bloat… I had took advantage of a deal years back with the Fold 2. Told myself, going to do it differently next time… and the experience is so much better unlocked as you probably already know.

But it’s no denying… it’s a tough deal to pass up, wouldn’t be surprised carriers do something similar with Apple come time their foldable release. And I don’t mind going that route under Apple… they do not let carriers dictate anything on their devices.

That is nuts. Why would ATT do that? Isn't that double what a new 10 Pro XL costs?

Oh, because you are on the hook for 3 years (attempt to pay it off early then pay full balance). Which is not too bad especially if you plan on keeping the phone awhile, but still if a carrier does something silly to your account if you threaten to leave you pay the entire balance.

 

[Sensamic]

Out of curiosity, how many of you guys that already own a foldable or are buying the new Samsung Folds or iPhone Fold in September have a tablet?

I've got an iPad Pro 11 M4 which I'm very happy with and use it often during the week. I've always wanted a foldable and really like the new Fold 8, but I fear that if I buy one I would obviously start using less and less the iPad Pro, wether it be at home or on the rare occasion I take it outside.

It's a really expensive tablet and I don't plan on selling it, specially now that prices have gone up a lot.

So, this is stopping me a little bit from buying a foldable. I also have a MacBook Neo, so a foldable doesn't seem too necessary in my ecosystem, although I would enjoy it a lot, obviously, but I don't want to have a 1.000€ tablet laying around the house not being used.

 

[jamezr]

I usually buy unlocked but it’s crazy I can get $1900 trade in for my Pixel 10 Pro XL from AT&T. I was going to just wait for the foldable iPhone but I may have to give the ZF8 a try if I’m basically getting it for free

But then it is under contract for 3 years unless you pay it off early at full retail.

 

[Tulani]

Out of curiosity, how many of you guys that already own a foldable or are buying the new Samsung Folds or iPhone Fold in September have a tablet?

I've got an iPad Pro 11 M4 which I'm very happy with and use it often during the week. I've always wanted a foldable and really like the new Fold 8, but I fear that if I buy one I would obviously start using less and less the iPad Pro, wether it be at home or on the rare occasion I take it outside.

It's a really expensive tablet and I don't plan on selling it, specially now that prices have home up a lot.

So, this is stopping me a little bit from buying a foldable. I also have a MacBook Neo, so a foldable doesn't seem too necessary in my ecosystem, although I would enjoy it a lot, obviously, but I don't want to have a 1.000€ tablet laying around the house not being used.

- Compact size: Unlike a tablet, a foldable phone fits easily in your pocket when folded, making it far more convenient to carry around.

- Dual functionality: It works as a regular smartphone for calls, messaging, and quick tasks, but unfolds into a larger screen for reading, gaming, or multitasking—essentially giving you tablet-like benefits without needing a separate device.

- Efficiency: You don’t have to juggle two gadgets; one foldable phone covers both roles, saving space and reducing costs.

- Seamless experience: Modern foldables often support multitasking features like split-screen apps, which tablets offer, but with the added benefit of being pocket-sized.

I no longer own an iPad myself having bought the Fold 7

but Macbook is irresistible.

 

[Ludatyk]

Out of curiosity, how many of you guys that already own a foldable or are buying the new Samsung Folds or iPhone Fold in September have a tablet?

I've got an iPad Pro 11 M4 which I'm very happy with and use it often during the week. I've always wanted a foldable and really like the new Fold 8, but I fear that if I buy one I would obviously start using less and less the iPad Pro, wether it be at home or on the rare occasion I take it outside.

It depends on how you use your iPad, if you use it more as a tablet with no use for a keyboard or mouse... then probably you will see yourself using the iPad less.

So, this is stopping me a little bit from buying a foldable. I also have a MacBook Neo, so a foldable doesn't seem too necessary in my ecosystem, although I would enjoy it a lot, obviously, but I don't want to have a 1.000€ tablet laying around the house not being used.

Yeah, if you have some reservations… then go with your intuition. I have a MBP… but stays at the desk, while I keep the iPad and Fold as my mobile setup.

 

[aggie99]

But then it is under contract for 3 years unless you pay it off early at full retail.

Doesn’t really matter honestly. I’ll never likely be leaving AT&T. While I like T-Mobile better in metro areas they just don’t have near the coverage across the rural areas of Texas that AT&T does. Neither does Verizon. AT&T is the only carrier that gets service out at my hunting lease in West Texas. Even then it’s only LTE but still works pretty well. But yea I’m hesitant to pull the trigger. Having a TriFold I’m just not sure there’s any advantage to the ZF8 other than the newer chipset and maybe a few minor AI improvements and of course the size.

 

[Cryates]

Out of curiosity, how many of you guys that already own a foldable or are buying the new Samsung Folds or iPhone Fold in September have a tablet?

I've got an iPad Pro 11 M4 which I'm very happy with and use it often during the week. I've always wanted a foldable and really like the new Fold 8, but I fear that if I buy one I would obviously start using less and less the iPad Pro, wether it be at home or on the rare occasion I take it outside.

It's a really expensive tablet and I don't plan on selling it, specially now that prices have gone up a lot.

So, this is stopping me a little bit from buying a foldable. I also have a MacBook Neo, so a foldable doesn't seem too necessary in my ecosystem, although I would enjoy it a lot, obviously, but I don't want to have a 1.000€ tablet laying around the house not being used.

You might able to find some sort of situation where the iPad Pro is still very relevant to you, though. Regardless of which size iPad you have, the folding iPhone is rumored to have a 7.8" screen, so it's really not going to necessarily be a direct replacement for an iPad Pro - iPad Mini, sure, but not a Pro.

But also if you do end up using the folding iPhone more and the iPad Pro less, then it sounds like you would have found the device that more suits your needs.

This would really come down to how much you use your iPad without a keyboard - If you use it that way a lot then a foldable makes sense as a replacement imo, but if you use your iPad with a keyboard then it will still have its place.

 

[TPadden]

Out of curiosity, how many of you guys that already own a foldable or are buying the new Samsung Folds or iPhone Fold in September have a tablet?

So, this is stopping me a little bit from buying a foldable. I also have a MacBook Neo, so a foldable doesn't seem too necessary in my ecosystem, although I would enjoy it a lot, obviously, but I don't want to have a 1.000€ tablet laying around the house not being used.

I left the Apple "ecosystem" 5 years ago and migrated to Android/ Windows. I use a Samsung Tab S11 tablet when WiFi is available and my Fold 7 when on 5g, my laptop is Windows. My unlimited phone plan only has 5GB Hotspot data; so a Fold and Tablet work great for me away from my desk. I have to stay current with the Apple "ecosystem" as my wife uses her iPhone, iPad, and Macbook; which constantly reminds me why I prefer Android/ Windows (but that's a whole other discussion). 😉

Tom