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Early leaks and rumors about Samsung‘s next-gen foldables have mostly revolved around the hinge design. We are hearing that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 will feature a new type of hinge that reduces the crease on the inner display. Multiple sources have claimed this, though some only mention the Fold model while others say both foldables will employ the same hinge mechanism. We’ve now got further confirmation of this design change from the reputed tipster Ice Universe.
The tipster recently took to the Chinese social media platform Weibo to reveal that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 will feature a “droplet” hinge (via). As you might have guessed, this hinge design folds the display in the shape of a waterdrop, as opposed to just bending it in a U shape like on the existing models. This design shift will significantly reduce the crease that forms along the fold line on the display. Motorola’s Razr series and Oppo’s Find N series foldables already employ the waterdrop hinge mechanism. Samsung is finally adopting it as well.
The Korean firm has had a huge headstart over its rivals in the foldable market. It hardly had any competition for the first three years since it launched the original Galaxy Fold in 2019. So Samsung now playing catch up to newcomers is a bit disappointing. It should have been able to take care of the crease problem long ago. The company had filed a patent application for a waterdrop-shaped hinge mechanism for foldable smartphones back in 2016. It’s unclear what kept Samsung from realizing it all this while.
Nonetheless, Galaxy foldables seem to be finally addressing the crease problem this year. Hopefully, Samsung will offer this much-needed improvement in both the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. There also have been rumors about a “dumbbell” hinge system but details are scarce. Maybe the company is developing different types of hinges for the two foldable lineups. We shall find out soon.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 rumors
Apart from a redesigned hinge, Samsung’s fifth-gen foldables are also expected to get upgraded cameras. The Galaxy Z Flip 5 looks certain to get a bigger external display as well. Rumors are that it will feature a square-shaped panel that covers the whole of the phone’s upper half. Unfortunately, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 seems to be missing out on a built-in S Pen slot. Samsung is reportedly prioritizing making the device thinner and lightweight this year. It may work out a way to squeeze the accessory into the foldable next year. Stay tuned for more leaks and rumors about the upcoming Galaxy foldables.