The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is not just a typical smartphone; it embodies the future of mobile technology. I experienced its innovative design at Samsung’s Unpacked event in New York, where I also encountered the Z Flip 7 and Z Flip 7 FE. When folded, the Z Fold 7 measures 8.9mm thick and weighs only 215 grams, resembling a standard slate phone. The 6.5-inch cover display is practical for browsing social media, texting, and watching videos. However, unfolding it reveals a whole new universe. The Z Fold 7’s inner display, which is 8 inches wide and 11% larger than its predecessor, is strikingly thin at just 4.2mm, making it incredibly lightweight and spacious—essential attributes for multitasking. The use of Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 and Victus 2 materials enhances its durability, solidifying the impression that this foldable is the epitome of modern design.
Drew Blackard, Samsung’s senior vice president of mobile product management, characterized the Z Fold 7 as “now a mainstream form factor.” This aligns with the device’s sleek profile and enhanced camera capabilities, dispelling the notion that foldable phones must compromise performance for slim design. While competitors like Oppo, Huawei, and Honor also offer impressively slim foldables, Samsung’s entry is particularly noteworthy following the launch of the Galaxy S25 Edge, signaling the brand’s commitment to this evolving trend.
Notably, the Z Fold 7 features a robust camera system, including a 200-megapixel main camera, affirming that excellent photography can exist in a slim design. Accompanied by 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10-megapixel telephoto cameras, and 10-megapixel dual selfie cameras, it promises a superior photographic experience—something that I am eager to test in real-world settings. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and runs on One UI 8 with Android 16, ensuring that its performance matches its stellar hardware.
Despite its thinner design, the Z Fold 7 maintains the same 4,400-mAh battery capacity as last year’s model, which is a relief given that battery life is a crucial factor for many users. The phone’s expanded real estate has allowed it to avoid the common pitfalls that often accompany a slimmer profile. This feature is especially important for heavy users who enjoy activities like social media or photography, as confirmed by CNET’s survey on consumer priorities when purchasing phones.
However, premium technology comes with a premium price. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts at $2,000, reflecting a $100 increase from its predecessor. This cost showcases the advanced features and robust camera system that characterize the device. In comparison, the Galaxy S25 Edge starts at $1,100, while the S25 Ultra begins at $1,300, underlining the high-end nature of the Z Fold 7. A range of color options, including jet black, blue shadow, silver shadow, and an exclusive mint color for preorders, adds an element of personalization for buyers.
In summary, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents a significant step forward in mobile technology, seamlessly blending advanced design with superior performance. Its lightweight build, enhanced camera capabilities, and practical features provide an impressive user experience. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, its innovative technology and design promise to redefine how we interact with our devices and position Samsung as a leader in the foldable phone market. Preorders for the device are already open, with official release slated for July 25, marking an exciting chapter in Samsung’s product lineup.
