Foreign Media: "Z Flip, Design 'Good'... Will Users Switch from iPhone?"

Thinner Thickness Due to Hinge Improvement
Improved Usability with Expanded External Screen
Criticism Over Price Competitiveness
Limitations Noted Due to Lack of Killer Apps

Major international media outlets generally praised the design of Samsung Electronics' next-generation foldable phones, the ‘Galaxy Z Flip5’ and ‘Z Fold5’, unveiled on the 26th.

On the 26th, domestic and international reporters and overseas influencers attending 'Galaxy Unpacked 2023' held at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, are experiencing the Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Watch6, Galaxy Tab S9, and more. Photo by Jin-Hyung Kang aymsdream@

On the day, Bloomberg highlighted that the Z Flip5 is thinner than its predecessor. Bloomberg explained, "With an improved hinge, the thickness of the Z Flip and Z Fold has become thinner and lighter." The new product features a ‘Flex Hinge’ with a droplet structure instead of the previous U-shaped hinge, allowing the two screens to fold tightly without gaps when the phone is closed, which was viewed positively.

There was also an evaluation that the significantly larger cover screen increased usability when the phone is folded. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) stated, "The Z Flip5’s cover screen is nearly four times larger than the previous model (1.9 inches), making it easier to take selfies with the rear camera."

Due to this year’s unpacked event held in Korea, a hands-on space (Galaxy Experience Space) was set up in Manhattan, New York, which attracted many visitors. A local staff member hinted, "American visitors commonly mention that the 5th generation Galaxy Z series feels younger and that the products are well-made." Hana Lim, a Gen Z resident of Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen, said, "I have been very interested in the Galaxy Z Flip since its first release because of its beautiful design, and it seems to be getting better and better."

Visitors are exploring the newly released Galaxy Z series at the experience space 'Galaxy Experience Space' located on 34th Street in Manhattan, New York, USA, on the 26th (local time).

On the other hand, some evaluations stated that the product did not meet expectations. It was pointed out that it falls short in price competitiveness against Chinese companies and lacks killer applications (apps) to surpass Apple. Nicole Peng, Senior Vice President of market research firm Canalys, told WSJ, "There is a lack of overwhelming advantages or killer apps unique to the Z Flip5 to justify its high price," adding, "As more competitors join, the challenge for Samsung Electronics is whether it can continue to ‘lead’ the foldable sector through quantitative growth."

Brian Ma, an analyst at IDC, said, "Samsung Electronics has gained know-how on how to make foldable phones more durable," but also evaluated, "It seems difficult to dominate the Chinese market with foldable phones alone, and there are still challenges to be solved in optimizing apps and securing hardware stability."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.