Get started with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4: aim for 0 flops

Although some people continue to wonder if this format is really relevant, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 continues on the path of foldable smartphones. It must be said that the manufacturer is set to achieve significant sales after the great commercial success of the previous model. After all, some people want a device that can easily fit in their pocket or bag, or simply be fooled by its striking size.

For these people Frandroid They got to hold the Galaxy Z Flip 4 so they could get a feel for what the phone has in store.

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Also, be sure to check out our first review of the Galaxy Z Fold 4.

The age of elegance

The Flip range wants to offer a very different experience than the Fold. We’re not talking about productivity or tablet usability. Therefore, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 will pay special attention to its appearance. For this, Samsung is betting on a timely update. The flatter edges are a bit “iPhonesque”, really bringing back a more modern look, as does the matte finish, which contrasts with last year’s glossy finish. It’s very successful and pleasant in the hand – even if the fingerprints continue to mark a little.

Overall, the grip is really neat. In particular, as with the Fold 4, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 sees its hinge changed slightly to lose size and become more upright, which suits this modernist speed well.

So, when you open the phone to use, the said hinge is more discreet. Hence, the metal lines framing it are slimmer than in the past. We appreciate this development, even if it remains rather modest.

For the rest, there is little change compared to the Z Flip 3. In the upper half of the back, for example, we find a black frame that occupies the entire width and surrounds the two photo modules and the small external screen. It’s not crazy until you go for the Bespoke Edition model, where you can customize the colors of each half and hinge. There is no shortage of choice: there are 75 possible combinations.

On the front, the foldable display keeps the punch in the center of the front and doesn’t see any improvement on the side of the fold, which is always felt under the finger, especially without interference. The panel also offers a diagonal of 6.7 inches in Full HD+ (2640 x 1080 pixels) format with an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120 Hz.

External screen and social networks

Let’s take a look at the external display. 1.9 inches 260 x 512 pixels, still on Oled. It now offers more possibilities. This gives you access to more widgets. For example, you can set up three contacts to make a quick call without opening the phone. If you have headphones connected, they will communicate, otherwise your conversation will be on speakerphone until you turn on the Galaxy Z Flip 4.

You can also easily reply to a message from an external screen by using an emoji, a short auto-reply or by dictating text. Faster settings are also available. So we’re thinking of control over the flash, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or even a fingerprint reader and facial recognition. The latter two could be handy for contactless payment with the Galaxy Z Flip 4 folded over itself.

Another software innovation: Social networks like Instagram for Reels, TikTok for Shorts or YouTube integrate Flex Mode. So you can shoot videos directly from one of these apps by placing the Galaxy Z Flip 4 somewhere in a sitting position.

The interface will fit you perfectly and be framed so you can publish your content in a vertical format with the correct aspect ratio. Better news: more video calling apps work with Flex Mode. For example, in WhatsApp, the interface adapts as needed.

Finally, a good autonomy?

Battery life is one of the main arguments of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4. It has integrated a larger 3700 mAh battery. This is an increased capacity of 400 mAh compared to the previous generation. Unfortunately, during my treatment, I did not have time to analyze whether this promised increased endurance really happened. However, serious progress is expected here. On the charger side, it’s better without the madness: we go for a set with a maximum power of 15 W to 25 W.

On the other hand, we can hope for better performance in low light thanks to working only on photodiodes in photography. Otherwise, the two rear cameras (wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle) are a major evolution and still lack a telephoto lens.

Future success?

Galaxy Z Flip 3 was quite successful for the foldable smartphone segment. The Galaxy Z Flip 4 should follow in its footsteps if it manages to convince the world with its small change and above all autonomy promises. If this new model proves that it can last all day without too much grinding, Samsung may have its hands dirty. This flip has the potential to be far from a flop.

The highlight of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 // Source: Arnaud Gelineau – Frandroid

Taking pictures with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 // Source: Arnaud Gelineau – Frandroid

Especially since we can already bet on the smartphone’s fashion side being heavily emphasized in ads. But pay attention to the price increase compared to last year.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 price and release date

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 will be released on August 26, 2022. In the meantime, it’s available for pre-order (and you’ll benefit from a €150 trade-in offer).

Three configurations are in focus:

• 1109 euros for the 128 GB version;
• 1169 euros for 256 GB;
• 1289 euros for the 512 GB version.

For comparison, the previous model cost 50 euros cheaper for the equivalent configuration.

N.B. This was done as part of a press trip organized by Samsung in London.