Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim' May Not Be as Thin as Expected
Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim' variant may not be living up to its name, according to recent reports. While the device was expected to push the boundaries of foldable phone thinness, it seems Samsung is prioritizing reliability over an ultra-slim profile.
Not-So-Slim Design
Earlier rumors suggested the Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim' (potentially called Galaxy W25 in China) would target a thickness of around 7.7mm. However, new information from The Elec indicates the device will only be marginally thinner than the standard Galaxy Z Fold 6:
- Standard Galaxy Z Fold 6: 12.1mm thick
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim': Approximately 11.5mm thick
This represents only about a 5% reduction in thickness, far from the dramatic slimming many had anticipated.
Reliability Comes First
Samsung's decision to maintain a thicker profile appears to stem from concerns about compromising the device's durability. With some components already in production for next year's foldables, the company seems unwilling to risk reliability issues for the sake of a thinner design.
Comparison to Competitors
While Samsung makes incremental progress, it's worth noting that competitors like Honor have pushed foldable designs even further:
- Honor Magic V3: 9.2mm thick (current record holder for slimmest foldable)
Release Plans
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim' is expected to launch in October 2023, initially targeting markets in China and Korea.
What This Means for Users
While the 'Slim' variant may not be as groundbreaking as some hoped, Samsung's focus on reliability could be seen as a positive for potential buyers. Foldable phones are still a relatively new technology, and ensuring long-term durability is crucial for widespread adoption.
As we approach the rumored October release date, more details about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 'Slim' are likely to emerge. Stay tuned for updates on specifications, features, and how this device will fit into Samsung's expanding foldable lineup.