Introduction
Samsung’s latest flagship foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, has made waves with its significantly thinner and lighter design. Unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event, the device marks a bold departure from its predecessors by omitting the S Pen support—a feature long cherished by productivity enthusiasts. This decision, described by Samsung as a “trade-off,” reflects the company’s focus on portability and user feedback.
Design and Build: Thinner, Lighter, and More Portable
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a testament to Samsung’s engineering prowess. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Slimmer Profile: At just 8.9mm when folded, the Fold 7 is 24% thinner than its predecessor.
- Reduced Weight: Weighing 215 grams, it’s 10% lighter, making it easier to carry and handle.
- Durability: The device retains its IPX8 water resistance and reinforced hinge mechanism.
These improvements come at the cost of S Pen compatibility, as the digitizer layer required for stylus input was removed to achieve the slimmer form factor.
Display and Performance Upgrades
The Fold 7 doesn’t just excel in design—it also delivers cutting-edge display technology and performance:
- Main Screen: An expansive 8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
- Cover Screen: A 6.5-inch Super AMOLED panel, equally smooth and responsive.
- Brightness: Both screens peak at 2600 nits, ensuring visibility even under direct sunlight.
Under the hood, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM for seamless multitasking.
Camera Enhancements
Samsung has also revamped the camera system, making it one of the most capable in the foldable market:
- Main Camera: A groundbreaking 200MP sensor for unparalleled detail and clarity.
- Ultra-Wide Lens: A 12MP shooter with a 123-degree field of view.
- Telephoto Lens: A 50MP periscope lens offering 5x optical zoom.
These upgrades ensure that the Fold 7 is not just a productivity powerhouse but also a photography contender.
The S Pen Dilemma: Why Samsung Made the Call
The removal of S Pen support has been a polarizing decision. Samsung’s reasoning is rooted in user feedback:
- User Preferences: Surveys indicated that a majority of users prioritized a slimmer device over stylus functionality.
- Technical Constraints: The digitizer layer added bulk, conflicting with the goal of a sleeker design.
However, Samsung hasn’t abandoned the S Pen entirely. The company is actively exploring ways to reintroduce stylus support in future models without compromising on design.
Future Prospects: Will the S Pen Return?
Samsung is collaborating with tech firms like HiDeep to develop a stylus that doesn’t require a separate digitizer or battery. If successful, this innovation could pave the way for S Pen compatibility in future foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 8.
Community Reactions: A Mixed Bag
The decision has sparked lively debates among tech enthusiasts:
- Pro-Slim Design: Many users applaud the enhanced portability and ergonomics.
- Pro-S Pen: Others lament the loss of a tool that boosted productivity and creativity.
Forums like Reddit and Twitter are abuzz with discussions, reflecting the diverse opinions of Samsung’s loyal fanbase.
How Does the Galaxy Z Fold 7 Stack Up Against Competitors?
Here’s a quick comparison between the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and its closest rival, the Vivo X Fold 5:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | Vivo X Fold 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness (Folded) | 8.9mm | 9.2mm |
| Weight | 215g | 225g |
| Main Camera | 200MP | 160MP |
| S Pen Support | No | No |
While both devices excel in their own right, the Fold 7’s slimmer profile and superior camera give it an edge.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Forward
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents a calculated gamble—prioritizing sleekness over stylus support. Whether this trade-off resonates with users remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Samsung is pushing the boundaries of foldable technology. For those who value portability and cutting-edge features, the Fold 7 is a compelling choice. For S Pen loyalists, the wait for a compatible successor continues.
