Foldable smartphones are no longer a dream in the world of innovative electric gadgets. We have passed years since the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Fold in 2019. A single-screen mobile with a rigid slab will perhaps never lose its value. Still, some consumers are looking for a more pocketable device. If you have a plan to switch to foldable phones, keep on reading.
Unique Features of Foldable Phones
Some features of foldable smartphones are not present in regular mobiles. So, let us make a list of those exclusive features.
Flex Mode- High Flexibility
Many foldable smartphones (such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 5G) come with a Flex mode, which allows the device to be propped up or partially folded. You can also enjoy self-timed photography and hands-free video calls.
A smartphone-sized device is easily convertible to a tablet-sized model. The large screen lets you get better multimedia and multitasking experience. Even your foldable phone may work as a mini laptop.
Instant Photo Review
Buying a foldable phone is a good idea if you like to capture selfies. Using the Flex mode, you can easily preview your selfies. The camera lets you activate the Capture View Mode to choose a different layout. You may capture videos and phones without using a tripod.
App Continuity
While switching between folded and unfolded modes, there will be no interruption with the app’s functionalities. For example, you are currently playing a mobile game on the folded screen. But, if you unfold it, there is no need to restart the game.
Split Keyboard
Foldable smartphones display an onscreen split keyboard, allowing you to type words with both hands. This feature helps you type more efficiently and comfortably.
What are Foldable Phone Screens Made of?
Plastic polymers were traditionally used to make foldable screens. On the contrary, glass is a highly rigid material and cracks when bent. Although many manufacturers used to prefer flexible and lightweight plastic polymers, these materials had a risk of scratches. Today, Galaxy Z Flip and other innovative foldable mobile screens have ultra-thin plastic on top and glass as the main component.
Difference between Foldable and Flip Phones
Foldable phones have large inner display folding inwards. A phablet-sized gadget can retain the size of a regular mobile. For instance, OnePlus Open and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 have a bigger outer display as the main screen. There are full-fledged display panels, you will feel like using 2 separate devices at a time.
On the contrary, although flip phones come with a folding screen, their main display has a standard panel size. You can fold the panel inwards and make the overall device more compact. So, the display folds up and down, and there is a horizontal crease.
If you aim to increase productivity, buy foldable phones. These devices split the screen and facilitate multitasking. So, you may use multiple apps at a time.
But, if you want the foldable tech to have a compact device, flip phones are the right choice.
Technologies Used for Foldable Phones
Innovatively designed foldable mobiles have a flexible display that you can fold in half. Technologies used for these smartphones are comparatively new.
Hinge system– The hinge mechanism plays a significant role in folding and unfolding your devices. So, foldable phones have different hinge systems, although their main task is to bend the display without damage.
Display technologies– Foldable screens are curved, flat, or flexible. They combine several specks of color to develop the images. Foldable smartphones have advanced display technology because the screens comprise layers-
- Cover layer
- OLED layer
- TFT layer
- Substrate
These layers work seamlessly to let you experience a foldable screen. However, it is challenging to create a foldable screen. Still, most consumers have appreciated the idea of folding the smartphone’s screen.
Software compatibility– Foldable phones need a special software program to work properly. The software needs to manage various modes of your gadget (such as tab and phone mode).
Why Buy Foldable Phones?
Foldable smartphones have become highly popular because of a range of advantages.
- Highly versatility due to the seamless switching between tablet and smartphone modes
- The foldable design has made the device more portable
- The expansive screen lets you run multiple apps.
- Advanced camera setups with different shooting modes and multiple lenses
Drawbacks Of Foldable Phones
- The folding mechanism increases the risk of damage
- Achieving a crease-free screen is a challenge
- Considerable thickness when the phone remains folded
- A comparatively high price tag
- Not every app is compatible with the foldable display
Tips For Protecting Foldable Phones
Your foldable smartphones need extra care to provide lasting value.
- Never Use an Adhesive Screen Protector–
Samsung Galaxy Z and other devices have screens with preinstalled protectors. These protectors withstand your frequent folding and unfolding activities. Samsung and other brands recommend keeping the protector intact. Additional screen protection may affect screen performance.
- Never fold the mobile backwards
Some foldable phones have a complex hinge system to let you bend the phone smoothly. You must not twist the hinges backwards, as it causes stress to the delicate screen. Close the foldable model fully before putting it into your bag.
- Never Place Your Phone Close to the Magnets
Some foldable smartphones are equipped with a strong magnet to prevent them from being accidentally opened inside your pocket or bag. These strong magnets may pull other magnetic objects (keys and SD cards) and cause damage.
- Keep Your Foldable Mobile Safe from Liquids
Currently, no foldable phone is water-resistant or waterproof. That is why your device must be safe from liquid. For instance, while cleaning the phone, you must not expose it to liquid.
- Treat the Screen Gently
Although foldable phone screens have built-in screen protectors, they are more delicate. So, you have to treat it carefully and gently. If you buy a foldable phone with a stylus, apply only light pressure. Never use your sharp fingernails and pens on your smartphone screen. Moreover, coins and other items may prevent your device’s hinge from closing properly. Do not put your force on your phone if it does not click shut.
Do Foldable Phones Crease?
Both flip-style and foldable phones have a risk of crease, which appears mainly where the screen bends. You may find a visible line running across your display. Sometimes, engineering and hardware limitations can cause the issue.
But, the best manufacturers have tried to solve the crease issue by incorporating a hinge into the design.
The waterdrop hinge has a distinctive design that adjusts the device’s folding shape. When you fold the display, it leads to a teardrop shape instead to a U shape. This technology minimizes the effect of the crease.
Some manufacturers use highly robust materials to prevent the crease. For instance, Honor’s Magic V2 is a foldable made from a durable titanium alloy hinge.
Is Foldable Phone Worth It?
One question is still in your mind- Should I buy a foldable smartphone? The answer depends on several factors. From durability perspective, a flip phone or a foldable device is a good choice. The folding technology is advancing more in the recent years. Still, the cost factor is a concern for many consumers. If you afford to pay a high amount, try out a foldable phone.