In Short:
Samsung has released the Galaxy Z Fold 6, an upgraded model of its foldable smartphone lineup. While it features refinements and enhanced AI capabilities, it comes with a higher starting price of Rs. 164,999. The new design is lighter and thinner, with improved durability and display. However, it retains similar camera performance and battery life, which might not compete with other flagship phones.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: Overview
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 emerges as the latest iteration in Samsung‘s growing lineup of foldable smartphones, succeeding the commendable Galaxy Z Fold 5 from the previous year. While significant innovations may not be prominent, the refinements across various aspects, along with an intensified focus on AI-driven features, stand out prominently this year.
Positioning itself among the elite smartphones of 2024, the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s pricing trajectory has stirred some concerns. In context, the Galaxy Z Fold 4, launched in 2022, started at ₹154,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 maintained the same price point when introduced last year. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 has set a new benchmark with a starting price of ₹164,999 for the base model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. For those requiring additional storage, the price escalates to ₹176,999 for 512GB and an impressive ₹200,999 for the 1TB configuration. This backdrop elevates the significance of what the Fold 6 brings to the table this year.
Design: Thinner and Lighter
- Dimensions: 153.5×68.1×12.1mm (folded) | 153.5×132.6×5.6mm (unfolded)
- Weight: 239 grams
- Durability: IP48 (water resistant)
The design of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 has shifted away from the rounded edges of its predecessor, favoring a flatter, more rectangular silhouette. This facilitates a more modern aesthetic while also enhancing functionality. The device sports thinner bezels surrounding the display, and an expanded cover screen significantly improves usability.
The reduction in thickness and weight makes the Fold 6 notably slimmer at 12.1mm (when folded) and 5.6mm (unfolded) while weighing in at 239 grams. This lightweight feel, compared to the 253 grams of the Fold 5, allows for more comfortable handling during everyday tasks like texting or photography.
The robust aluminum frame affords structural integrity, while the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 covering both the front and back enhances durability. This year, an upgraded IP48 rating further confirms its water resistance; however, it is essential to note that it remains susceptible to dust ingress, necessitating cautious handling in sandy environments.
The Fold 6 offers a variety of color options including Pink, Navy, Crafted Black (Special Edition), White (Special Edition), and Silver Shadow. The Silver Shadow, in particular, has garnered positive feedback for its timeless appeal.
In terms of hinge design, Samsung has engineered improvements to make it both lighter and sturdier, promoting enhanced resilience. While the crease remains visible, it has been less pronounced, reflecting ongoing enhancements in hinge technology.
Display: Unmatched Experience
- Main Display: 7.6-inch
- Cover Screen: 6.3-inch
- Display Type: Dynamic LTPO AMOLED
- Display Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus 2
The display of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, though not drastically different on paper, outshines its predecessor through superior performance. The cover screen has been slightly enlarged to 6.3 inches, enhancing usability for various tasks without compromising the screen resolution (1856×2160 pixels for the main display).
With a peak brightness of 2600 nits and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, the display is particularly adept for activities such as gaming, streaming, and multitasking. It is also equipped with HDR10+ and Widevine L1 certification for an enriching media consumption experience.
Performance: Benchmark Setting
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm)
- RAM: 12GB LPDDR5X
- Storage Options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB UFS 4.0
Equipped with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 commands robust performance across various tasks from gaming to multitasking without demonstrating thermal throttling, thanks to a larger vapor chamber that enhances thermal management.
Benchmark tests reveal that the Fold 6 is capable of exceeding competitive standards set by other foldable devices like the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro and OnePlus Open in terms of both single-core and multi-core performance. The audio quality, coupled with hallmark call clarity, marks a significant advantage.
Software and AI Features: Enhanced Value
- Software: One UI 6.1.1
- Operating System: Android 14
- Latest Security Patch: June, 2024
Running on One UI 6.1.1 based on Android 14, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 ensures a smooth user experience with minimal bloatware and optimized performance for multitasking across its dual displays. Users can expect up to seven years of software and security updates, enhancing the longevity of their investment.
Furthermore, the introduction of advanced AI capabilities into the software suite sets this device apart from its competition. Features like Note Assist and Sketch to Image enhance productivity, demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to integrating AI into daily workflows.
Camera: Solid but Not Outstanding
- Main Camera: 50-megapixel
- Telephoto Camera: 10-megapixel
- Ultra-wide Camera: 12-megapixel
- Selfie Cameras: 4-megapixel (under-display) & 10-megapixel (cover screen)
While the rear camera system remains largely unchanged, focusing on an upgraded ultra-wide sensor, the camera performance in well-lit conditions is commendable, delivering vibrant and detailed photographs. Nighttime photography, however, exposes some limitations, with visible noise and autofocusing issues.
The under-display and cover screen selfie cameras serve distinct purposes; the former is suited for video calls while the latter performs adequately for social media use.
Battery: An Area for Improvement
- Battery Capacity: 4,400mAh
- Charging Rate: 25W (wired) & 15W (wireless)
- No Charging Adapter Included
Despite maintaining a 4,400mAh battery capacity from the Fold 5, the real-world endurance remains satisfactory, lasting a day of mixed usage. However, the slow charging speeds at 25W, which take over 100 minutes for a full charge, are underwhelming given the premium pricing of the device.
Conclusion: A Priced Investment
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 reflects an evolution in Samsung’s foldable strategy, presenting an appealing option for multitaskers and tech enthusiasts. With superb displays, commendable performance, and integrated AI capabilities, it establishes itself as a premium choice. However, the niche appeal of foldables and the hefty price tag may limit its audience. Alternatives like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, OnePlus Open, and Vivo X Fold 3 Pro provide robust features without the foldable form factor.
