Samsung is once again proving that a smartphone can be fashionable, fun, and most importantly, smart at the same time. The Galaxy Z Flip4 can easily stand out from among the numerous devices launched in 2022 by Samsung and even by its competing brands.
As the name suggests, the Galaxy Z Flip4 is the fourth iteration of the innovative foldable phone model. While many instantly observe that it has a striking resemblance to its predecessor, the Flip3, Tech and Lifestyle Journal affirms that there is more to this amazing smartphone—from the design, capabilities, and all other features.
Launched alongside the Galaxy Fold4 in the Philippines in August, the Galaxy Z Flip4 easily strikes with its inherent personality. If the former seems to combine a tablet and smartphone into a device, the Flip4 is like combining a smartwatch and a smartphone into a power-packed device, which even when folded does not diminish its potential.
Signature design
For people on the go, the Galaxy Z Flip4 would be a perfect gadget to bring along—anytime, anywhere. When unfolded, it stands 6.50 inches, is 2.83 inches wide and is 0.27 of an inch thick. Fold it and it will stand 3.34 inches and become 0.67-inch thick. Folding the device makes it fit the ordinary pants pocket. It is light, though, compared to the predecessor, it has added some grams—weighing 187 grams compared to the Flip3’s 183 grams.
The slimmer hinge is noticeable along with its straightened edges, contrasting back glass, and shiny metal frames. Samsung has revealed that the Galaxy Z Flip4 has a hinge that could withstand an average of 200,000 folds/flips, which is not to be worried about as it could still last you over a decade even if you flip the device over 200 times in a day.
The device is easy to flip or close. After several hours of usage, any user can develop the practical skill of flicking it open using just one hand (and flicking it close, too).
It retains the IPX8 Rating, which means the device can be submerged in freshwater for up to 1.5 meters deep in up to 30 minutes and still not incur any damage. However, it is not fully dust-resistant like any other smartphone especially because this one has a peculiar design with a hinge.
The unit we reviewed is Graphite in color, but there is another popular color available locally. The purple Galaxy Z Flip4 is logically a good device for BTS fans out there. We heard the purple units are also not prone to retaining fingerprint marks, unlike units bearing other colors.
Of course, not to be missed is the cover display with a small screen that shows the time when the device is folded. Samsung has added more functionality to this mode. For one, you can access messaging apps, take selfie photos, change the animated image, and more even if the phone is folded and without the need to unfold.
Clear display
The main screen is a full HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity Flex Display with 2640 X 1080 pixel resolution in a 22:9 aspect ratio. The 120Hz adaptive refresh rate is one of the most powerful in a smartphone these days, that’s why the viewing experience using this device can’t be easily matched.
The main display comes with a layer of glass topped with polycarbonate that brings that glass-like appearance, though the texture has a plastic feel. Because it is a foldable device, there is a noticeable crease in the folded area of the screen, which is just natural and does not affect the screen quality when using it.
When folded, the cover screen is a 1.9-inch Super AMOLED Display with a 260 X 512 pixel resolution, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+. Ticking this screen prompts the appearance of an accessible menu, facilitating instant functionality (though limited).
Camera system
Galaxy Z Flip4 comes with a 12MP wide-angle, f/1.8 with 83-degree field-of-view complemented by another 12MP ultrawide-angle camera, f/2.2 with 123-degree field of view. The device also improves the low-light capabilities of the predecessor, resulting in photos that stand out with vibrant colors, better contrasts, and impressive sharpness. Videos can record up to 60fps in 4K using the rear camera.
Because of its foldable design, the Galaxy Z Flip4 is unique in that it can take selfie photos using the rear cameras. Simply flip close the phone and activate the front-facing camera (which is actually the rear camera). Inside, the smartphone still comes with its own designated selfie camera—a 10MP camera that can never be inferior.
Performance and battery
Samsung also did not forget to boost Flip4’s performance. It is armed with the latest Qualcomm chipset, the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1, which seamlessly complements the device’s 8GB RAM. Storage is also not to be a problem for users who consume too much space. This smartphone is available in storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.
The Galaxy Z Flip4 runs through Android 12, which is pre-installed and is guaranteed for software updates of up to four years (up to Android 16). Software tweaks via Samsung OneUI 4.1 are also facilitated.
The battery is a 12% upgrade compared to the predecessor. The 3,700mAh battery can be charged quickly through the 25W fast charger. The device can also be recharged wirelessly and via reverse wireless charging. A full charge can last up to 21 hours before draining, making its power the longest-lasting in a foldable smartphone to date.
Working smart at every angle
The Galaxy Z Flip4 is smart enough to function differently depending on the angle the device is taking. A passionate user would easily figure out how functions can vary depending on the angle when flipped.
A zero-degree angle makes the device’s cover screen work at its full capability (as described previously). Flip-open the phone up to 75 degrees and you can make use of the FlexCam. This mode makes ideal selfie shots. Flip it to 90 degrees to take excellent photos using the rear camera system and without the need to use a smartphone holder or stand.
At 115 degrees, you can split the main screen into two to accommodate your multitasking activities. Just use two fingers to facilitate this split main screen. Have you imagined watching a video on the top screen while still doing your email or browsing the internet through the other half-screen? At 180 degrees, you get to enjoy all the normal functions of this foldable smartphone.
Price positioning
Logically, the Galaxy Z Flip4 is a premium phone, complete with all the premium features and designed uniquely for functions that can never be facilitated by other smartphones. Upon its local launch, the device sells at ₱58,990 for the 128GB variant, while the 256 version costs ₱62,990. The rare 512Gb variant costs ₱69,990.
Conclusion
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip4 simply is a dream smartphone that we all want and need. It is a natural head-turner, making it a very ideal fashion accessory. It has numerous features that facilitate fun, anytime, anywhere. And it can be used strategically and smartly to enjoy its full potential and many discoverable functions.
It is quite costly, however. But it has Tech and Lifestyle Journal’s high recommendation, despite minor flaws and limitations.
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