The Samsung Galaxy Unpacked just unfolded two days ago, introducing the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, and oh we are so here for it. One of the best mobile tools in the market for work and play (this writer has been an avid user of the Galaxy Z Fold3), the Galaxy Z Fold is a godsend. This foldable wonder from the Korean tech giant has revolutionised on-the-go productivity, entertainment and gaming experience. It doesn’t just make work all the more efficient, but—dare I say it?—also fun.
So what’s the 411 on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5? Here are the highlights of the new and improved Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5.
1. Design
Slimmer, sleeker, more seamless than ever before. In terms of design the all new Flex Hinge is the key takeaway here. This cutting-edge mechanism delivers an even smoother fold than with previous models. With a seamless motion, the hinge lets the phone lie perfectly flat when opened. And offers virtually no gap when closed, resulting in a sleeker silhouette. In comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold4 measures 15.8 mm thick when closed. The Galaxy Z Fold5? A slimmer 13.4 mm. 
Additionally, the form factor of the Galaxy Z Fold5 has been trimmed down to give a tighter grip. Thus, the Galaxy Z Fold5 is lighter (253 g) than the Galaxy Z Fold4 (263 g). Meaning, greater portability.
Then, of course, the colour options. This new model comes in classic Phantom Black, Icy Blue and—my favourite—pristine Cream. There are also the two online-exclusive hues of Blue and a lighter Gray, both with contrasting black trims on the edges of the phone and camera.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 in Cream, Icy Blue and Phantom Black.
2. Durability
The Galaxy Z Fold5 maintains the Armor Aluminum shell, a tough aluminum frame, to protect from damage. The main screen carries a shock dispersion layer, with a redesigned back for a more solid display than before. The Flex Window and back cover are fitted with tough Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®2 comprising of recycled discarded glass. (Brownie points for sustainability!). Just as important, the phone has IPX8 water resistance.
3. Camera
First the front cameras. The cover houses a 10MP selfie camera, while the main screen holds a 4mp under display camera. Then the big guns: the Galaxy Z Fold5 is equipped with three rear cameras. A 12MP wide-angle camera, a 50MP wide-angle camera, and a 10mp telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. The advanced camera system comes complete with 30x Space Zoom, offering unparalled creative freedom.
Feature-wise, Dual Preview allows your subject to see themselves how you see them on screen. So they can change their pose or fix their hair themselves to give you the best possible image. As before, the Galaxy Z Fold5 delivers on colour and clarity even in low light conditions. So here’s to more high resolution night time photos.
As for video, the Rear Camera records lush colour and detail. Amplified by Auto Frame Rate that sets the optimal exposure for your video from start to finish.
4. Screen
A whopping 7.6″ display. For PC-like productivity or an immersive, uninterrupted cinematic viewing and gaming experience equal to that of a tablet’s. In portrait or landscape format, the screen emits up to 1750 nits of brightness. Giving you optimal outdoor viewing experience, even when under bright sunlight.
The front cover screen on the other hand measures 6.2”.
5. Battery
Powered by a 4,400mAh (typical) dual battery, that gives you up to 73 hrs of music or 21hrs of video. In other words, it’ll last you a whole day without having to reach out for your charger incessantly. Supported by an advanced processor, the phone efficiently adjusts power usage based on your habits and needs.
6: Multi-tasking
The ultimate feature for on-the-move professionals. The Galaxy Z Fold5’s split-screen prowess lets you operate up to three windows simultaneously on just one screen. So you can stream, chat and reply emails at one go. Or browse, shop and play. Endless possibilities.
Convenience comes by way of a task bar that holds up to twelve apps at once. As for efficiency, the task bar keeps four of your most recent apps for faster access.
7. The S Pen
The most portable S Pen yet from Samsung. Take notes or doodle on the Galaxy Z Fold5 like you would on a notebook. Slimmer and more compact, the S Pen Fold Edition fits more comfortably in the pocket. Alternatively, the S Pen fits seamlessly into the new Slim S Pen Case, giving the phone added protection.
The only downside? The S Pen Fold Edition and Slim S Pen case are both sold separately.
8. Gaming
Cue the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy. This high-performance processor enhances graphics and utilises AI to offer dynamic gaming and multi-game functionality. Planning a marathon gaming session? The phone’s advanced cooling system intelligently dissipates heat to ensure less lag and no drop in performance.
9. Sustainability
The Galaxy Z Fold5 boasts a greater variety of recycled materials than its predecessors. These include the use of pre-consumer recycled glass and aluminum and post-consumer recycled plastics, sourced from discarded fishing nets, water barrels and PET bottles. The packaging too uses paper made from 100 percent recycled material.
10. Pricing
The Galaxy Z Fold5 is priced at RM6,799 for 256 GB, RM7,299 for 512 GB, and RM8,299 for 1 TB. All models will be available in Malaysia nationwide from August 18, 2023. To order now, visit www.samsung.com/my/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/
