What stands out as the main advantage of Samsung foldable devices? After using every model since the first and living with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 for a year, the assessment differs from common views. The feature drawing users back is not primarily the large screen when unfolded. Instead, it is the design that functions seamlessly as a standard phone without issues when folded. This proves the real strength of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 since its launch. Most days it serves as a typical smartphone, with the folded mode never feeling limited compared to regular flagships. It remains compact and thinner than earlier foldables, while its modest weight adds a secure feel. Over the year the front display proved capable enough that unfolding for the bigger screen was rarely necessary. Though not the intended main use, this approach enhances practicality. Requiring an unfold for every task would undermine the idea. The device excels when it operates like a normal phone that can unfold when desired. It gets opened for large spreadsheets where the squarer format aids viewing data fully, unlike standard screens. During flights it serves well for streaming YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. It functions as a work device without personal accounts or social apps and supports AI testing with tools like NotebookLM and Kimi. Multiple AI applications run simultaneously in separate windows on the larger display, aiding workflow management rather than just providing extra space. Upcoming foldables may introduce new designs to boost adoption, yet success will depend on performance when folded, based on this year of use.
