Four years have passed since Samsung launched its original Galaxy Z Flip, and now, with the sixth generation, the Galaxy Z Flip6 has arrived at our office. As we prepare for a comprehensive review, here are our initial impressions of this eagerly anticipated foldable device.
At first glance, the Galaxy Z Flip6 appears strikingly similar to last year’s Z Flip5. However, Samsung has made some significant upgrades beneath the surface. One of the most notable improvements is the new 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display, featuring a variable refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz. This ensures smoother scrolling and better battery efficiency. Additionally, the device now boasts a 50MP main camera and is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM.
Design and Display
Visually, the Galaxy Z Flip6 maintains the iconic flip design that has defined the series, but with a few subtle tweaks. It is slightly slimmer, measuring 14.9mm, which enhances its sleek and portable feel. Our review unit comes in a new blue color that appears more muted in person compared to the promotional images. The frame has transitioned from a glossy to a matte finish, providing a more refined look and better grip. The camera module also features color-matching metal rings, adding to the device’s cohesive aesthetic.
The new 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED screen is a standout feature. It is noticeably brighter than its predecessor, with Samsung claiming a peak brightness of up to 2,600 nits. This should significantly improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions, which we’ll thoroughly test in our full review. Moreover, the bothersome crease that plagued earlier models is now better concealed, enhancing the viewing experience.
The 3.4-inch AMOLED cover screen retains its folder-like shape and now includes more widgets and AI features, such as suggested replies for texts and Auto Zoom in Flex mode. These additions aim to enhance usability and productivity, making the cover screen more functional than ever.
Performance and Camera
Under the hood, the Galaxy Z Flip6 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, custom-made for Samsung’s flagship devices. This is coupled with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and performance. Notably, Samsung has introduced a vapor chamber cooling system for the first time in its flip phones, which should help maintain performance during extended use.
Camera upgrades are always a highlight in new smartphone releases, and the Galaxy Z Flip6 doesn’t disappoint. The main camera has been upgraded to a 50MP sensor, replacing the 12MP shooter found on older models. This should result in significantly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The secondary camera remains a 12MP ultrawide sensor with a 123° field of view, offering versatility for wide-angle shots.
Battery and Other Features
Battery life has often been a concern for foldable phones, but Samsung has addressed this by increasing the battery capacity to 4,000 mAh. This should provide longer endurance, though we will need to test it thoroughly to see how it performs under real-world conditions. One area that remains unchanged is the charging speed, which is still capped at 25W. Faster charging would have been a welcome upgrade, especially for users who are always on the go.
One notable omission is Samsung DeX, a feature that allows users to connect their phone to a monitor and use it as a desktop computer. Its absence on the Galaxy Z Flip6 is disappointing, especially for users who rely on their phones for productivity tasks.
Conclusion
Our initial impressions of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 are largely positive. The device builds on the strengths of its predecessors while addressing some of their weaknesses. The new display, upgraded camera, and improved performance are all promising features. However, the lack of faster charging and Samsung DeX may disappoint some users. As we put the Flip6 through its paces in our detailed review, we’ll see if these first impressions hold up and how the device performs in everyday use. Stay tuned for our full review.
