The new Flex Hinge in the Galaxy Z Fold 5 represents a significant advancement in foldable smartphone design, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. Here are the key improvements associated with this hinge technology:
Slimmer and More Portable Design
- The Flex Hinge contributes to a thinner profile, reducing the folded thickness of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 to 13.4mm, compared to 15.8mm for its predecessor, the Z Fold 4. This makes it easier to carry and more comfortable to hold[1][7].- The overall weight of the device has also decreased, making it approximately 10 grams lighter than the previous model, further enhancing its portability[7].
Enhanced Usability
- The hinge allows the device to lie completely flat when opened, eliminating any gap between the two halves. This design not only improves the visual appeal but also enhances the user experience by providing a seamless screen surface[1][2].- Users can adjust the hinge at various angles within a range of 75 to 115 degrees, unlocking new software applications and features that can take advantage of this flexibility[1][3].
Improved Durability and Motion
- The new hinge design employs a dual rail structure with fewer moving parts, which contributes to greater durabilityâan essential feature for foldable devices that are subject to frequent opening and closing[2][7].- While users may notice a slightly looser feel when operating the hinge, this is attributed to its smoother motion, which is a characteristic of the Flex Hinge technology rather than a defect[1][3].
Reduced Crease Visibility
- Although the crease on the display may appear slightly larger due to the new hinge design, its depth has been reduced. This results in a flatter appearance when the screen is unfolded, addressing one of the common complaints about foldable phones[1][6].Conclusion
The introduction of the Flex Hinge in the Galaxy Z Fold 5 not only enhances its design by making it slimmer and more portable but also improves usability through greater flexibility and durability. These advancements position Samsung's latest foldable as a competitive option in the evolving smartphone market.Citations:
[1] https://www.gizmochina.com/2023/07/29/samsung-flex-hinge-galaxy-z-fold5-flip5-explanation-engineering/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xy4kIhuvOcI
[3] https://www.samsung.com/uk/support/mobile-devices/discover-the-new-flex-hinge-for-the-samsung-galaxy-z-flip5-and-fold5/
[4] https://www.samsung.com/latin_en/support/mobile-devices/discover-the-new-hinge-technology-for-the-samsung-galaxy-z-flip5-and-fold/
[5] https://9to5google.com/2023/01/15/galaxy-z-fold-5-hinge/
[6] https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_z_fold5_to_bring_new_hinge_design_to_hide_the_display_crease_-news-57204.php
[7] https://www.hindustantimes.com/business/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-5-the-best-foldable-phone-yet-with-thinner-design-improved-hinge-and-powerful-processor-101691735564183.html