Samsung has long been rumored to be working on a more budget-friendly addition to its Z-series lineup, though it’s now nearly certain that it won’t be a book-style Z Fold model. According to new speculation, Samsung may instead release a Z Flip FE clamshell, potentially launching alongside the Galaxy S25 Slim in April.
Korean blogger yeux1122 suggests that Samsung might release a Galaxy Z Flip FE at the same time as the anticipated Galaxy Z Flip 7. Currently, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 starts at $1,099, while the recently launched Special Edition Galaxy Z Fold is priced around $2,000, although it’s not available in the U.S.
The report doesn’t provide specific details on the specs or pricing for the upcoming Flip FE. However, it does mention a simultaneous launch as Samsung typically unveils both Fold and Flip models together.
Samsung Conference Call –
“We are considering ways to lower entry barriers so that more customers can actually experience foldable products, given the high satisfaction among existing foldable users,” hinting at the preparation of budget-friendly foldable models.
The Fold will…
— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) October 31, 2024
Possible key features of the Samsung Galaxy Flip FE
Cited by a user on X, a Samsung executive reportedly said the company is “considering ways to lower entry barriers” for foldable phones “so that more customers can actually experience” them.
The user called Jukanlosreve, then went on to say that the Fold is expected to “become slimmer and lighter while providing a powerful camera experience.” The Flip is said to feature a differentiated, premium cover screen design.
This statement, along with the recent leak, suggests that a more affordable foldable model could be coming soon. The executive also hinted that Samsung is “preparing new form factors,” which may allude to the rumored Samsung tri-fold device.
Given the possible launch timeline, the device is likely to come with Android 15-based OneUI 7, along with extended software support from Samsung.
So far, reaction online to the previous Flip phone has been less than favorable. One user posted on X that besides the fact that it folds, “it offers nothing of value.” Perhaps, Samsung is attempting to lure more customers back.
I've been using Samsung Z Flip 6 for over 2 weeks now, here are my thoughts.
I still don't understand why this form factor exists.
Besides the fact that it folds, it offers nothing of value.
Unlike the Fold form factor which gives you a big screen when unfolded for media… pic.twitter.com/Bhi4jFN5Gd
— Adan (@durreadan01) November 1, 2024
In September, ReadWrite reported that Samsung had canceled the Galaxy Z Fold 6 FE, after the company had been unable to make it as thin as they wanted. That coupled with “industry uncertainty” has supposedly led Samsung to abandon the project. However, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip did launch on July 10, 2024.
ReadWrite has reached out to Samsung for comment.
Featured image: Samsung