How Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8 Finally Got Me on Board with Foldable Phones

3 min read

Though I’ve been aware of the growing market of folding phones, I’ve been hesitant to get one for myself. For one reason, I’m incredibly used to the standard smartphone—with just one screen to navigate—and I haven’t given anything else much thought. For another, they’ve always been a little too bulky for my preferences. Sure, I might have a phone that hardly fits in my back pocket with its case on, but double the profile of that, and I might as well have a small brick there. That all changed when I got my hands on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8.

Unlike its predecessors, the Galaxy Z Fold8 takes on a new aspect ratio. Compared to the older Galaxy Z Fold7, or even the newly launched Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra—which both feature 6.5-inch cover displays and 8-inch main screens—this model features a smaller 5.5-inch cover and opens up to 7.6 inches instead. You might be wondering, “Wouldn’t you want a bigger screen?” Not all the time—especially when you’re handling what feels like a pocket-sized tablet (complimentary). And, as mentioned before, previous classes of folding phones have had profiles that were too thick for my liking. Not this one, which is as slim as 9.7mm. Not to mention, it weighs in at 201 grams (compared to my iPhone Pro Max’s 233 grams). In the front pocket of my baggier jeans, where a phone or wallet might make its presence known, I almost forgot it was there—which was one of my favorite parts.

With all the buzz around folding phones, I have to state the obvious: It takes some getting used to—primarily because of its shape and size—but don’t let that deter you. Yes, you might look like you’re carrying a pocket-sized tablet around—and you might feel out of your element holding it up with both hands to take a photo. That said, you’ll fall in love with the visual quality of its displays and the overall ease of use. Plus, it’s fun.

A selfie taken on the Z Fold8.

Personally speaking, I love having everything on a bigger screen—especially when it comes to taking pictures. As someone who works in fashion and enjoys making content on the side, a phone with high-quality cameras and a range of in-app features is one of the biggest factors I consider when looking at new models. With the Galaxy Z Fold8, my favorite option was taking photos using the full-screen aspect ratio—which was especially great for wide-angle shots at a sporting event (and I imagine it’ll be especially fun on my next hike to a scenic viewpoint). Within the app itself, you can take your camera to the professional level with the option to change the ISO, aperture, and f-stop settings for both photos and videos, as well as shoot RAW files, which is great for anyone who wants a more custom experience. And, if you’re like me, where the camera eats first for most meals, there’s also a specific option for taking photos of food.

For those of you who focus on video content, the new Galaxy Z Fold phones feature a Portrait Video mode, which will give your videos a cinematic touch with a blurred background. What I personally find compelling is the FanCam feature for videos, where you can identify specific individuals in recorded footage, and the phone will use Galaxy AI to track the people you want through the video with the framing of your choosing. I love this for videos of my favorite athletes, K-pop stars, and any content of myself where I might be moving around a lot (a tennis match, anyone?).

If you’re curious about a folding phone, I think the Galaxy Z Fold8 is a great option. It’s easy to use, comfortable to hold, and undeniably fun to show off to your friends. Shop the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 in other colorways below.

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