The modern flip phone isn’t a gimmick anymore
The modern flip phone, to some, is a needless revival. Not only is the basic smartphone already fine on its own, but these new-age renditions are both more expensive and break much more easily.
And while its introduction to the market was met with pessimism and the occasional hardware failure, years later, and brands who’ve stuck with the modern flip phone continue to prove that they aren’t just relics of the past nor fads reliant on consumer hype, but genuine mainstays in a smartphone market that’s as strong as it’s ever been.
With the recent unveiling of the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 and Fold7, we take a look at some of the modern flip phones worth checking out.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7
The Flip7 features the series’ largest FlexWindow display yet. The 4.1-inch Super AMOLED screen practically lets you use your phone, like replying to messages and taking selfies, without even opening your device.
Inside, the phone’s 4,300mAh battery is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flip, delivering up to 31 hours of video play time on a single charge. It is also powered by the latest 3nm processor, an even more powerful CPU, GPU, and NPU than the previous Galaxy Z Flip6. The Flip7 is also the lightest and slimmest Galaxy Z Flip yet, weighing just 188 grams and measuring only 13.7mm when folded.
Powered by the newest One UI 8 and Android 16, the Flip7 features AI functionality that is smarter and more intuitive than ever. With Gemini Live, by just pointing the camera at anything, whether it’s packing for a trip or choosing an outfit, users can show Gemini what they’re looking at and receive a fitting response.
Samsung is also bringing the flip phone experience to more users with the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
A tablet at the palm of your hand, the Fold7 is the thinnest and lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet. At just 215 grams, it is even lighter than the Galaxy S25 Ultra and is just 8.9 mm thick when folded and 4.2 mm thick when unfolded. For reference, the S25 Ultra is 8.2mm thick.
Though thin and light, the Fold7 doesn’t compromise its durability, reducing visible creasing while strengthening durability by evenly dispersing stress.
The Fold7 also features the first 200MP wide-angle camera in the Galaxy Z series.
Oppo Find N5
While intrigue in the foldable phone experience is turned off by the possibility of it breaking due to everyday use, the Oppo Find N5 guarantees worry-free use. Its hinge features a 3D-printed Titanium Alloy Casing and Wing Plate, making it both thinner and much more durable. Additionally, the phone is also waterproof with IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings, making it safe from small splashes to unexpected plunges.
For reference, their Find N3 Flip, which was released in 2023, guarantees functionality well after 1,000,000 flips.
The Find N5 is also no slouch and can easily keep up with today’s newest phones. Its 5600mAh OPPO Silicon-carbon Battery can handle up to 25 hours of continuous video streaming or 8.6 hours of a non-stop Zoom meeting.
For those looking to maximize productivity, the Find N5 has Mac remote control functionality, allowing users to connect with their Mac product and make their phone a portable mini-PC.
Xiaomi MIX Flip
Released late last year, the MIX Flip is Xiaomi’s debut in the flip phone space. The MIX Flip guarantees up to 500,000 folds without deformation, and its 4780mAh Xiaomi Surge Battery guarantees a full day of charge.
While flip phone cover screens are incredibly useful for taking photos, other than that, they have limited functionality and act more like widgets than an extension of the phone. The MIX Flip’s cover screen is compatible with over 100 popular apps. Not to mention, it can also be customized with an adorable selection of dynamic virtual pets.
