One UI 6 is finally available for some users in full, bringing a list of changes to the OS. One change is the addition of a new security tool called “Auto Blocker” which acts as additional security for Samsung Galaxy phones.
According to Samsung, Auto Blocker is intended to be somewhat of an expansion of additional and optional security tools at your disposal. Heading into the settings with bring you to a new page with a suite of options that are entirely a matter of preference, similar to how some would use malware protection on a computer.
One security option on this page is the familiar “Block app installation from unauthorized sources” feature. Normally, that option would be on a different page, but has since moved with One UI 6/ The option is now also off by default, which is a big change from previous versions of One UI where the first time users tried to sideload an app, it was blocked.
Now, users can sideload as much as they want with the knowledge that it’s not always entirely safe. The option will act as a prevention tool whenever apps are not being sideloaded intentionally.
Auto Blocker also brings app security checks to keep third-party programs in check, as well as a blocker for USB commands. Turning Samsung’s Auto Blocker on with the toggle at the top of that page looks to enable all three of these features at the same time. Below is an “Advanced” section with more tools that can be turned on and off individually, like Message Guard, to protect users from Zero Click attacks and malicious code in direct messages.
Auto Blocker is available for every Samsung Galaxy device running One UI 6, which is rolling out globally now.
Samsung confirms a list of over 20 Galaxy smartphones that will get Android 14
Earlier today Samsung officially announced that its Android 14 update is now rolling out to the Galaxy S23 series, and the company has also confirmed the first few Galaxy smartphones that will be eligible for Android 14 in the coming months.
Android 14 for Samsung devices comes in the form of One UI 6.0, an update that delivers platform improvements from Google as well as updates to Samsung’s skin. Those updates include a bunch of new camera features, updated emoji, and more. But, to start, it’s all exclusive to the Galaxy S23 series which is getting the update now.
What comes next?
According to a small list that Samsung has provided, other Galaxy smartphones getting Android 14 will begin with the past few years of flagships, foldables, and a couple of A-Series devices.
In talking about the new features coming to “Enhance-X,” Samsung also confirmed over 20 devices that will be updated to One UI 6.0, many of which come as no surprise. That initial list includes devices released in 2020 and newer, starting with Galaxy S series devices.
Galaxy S23 series
Galaxy S22 series
Galaxy S21 series
Galaxy S20 series
Beyond that, almost every Samsung foldable is going to get One UI 6.0 except for the original Galaxy Fold.
Galaxy Z Fold 5
Galaxy Z Fold 4
Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy Z Fold 2
Galaxy Z Flip 5
Galaxy Z Flip 4
Galaxy Z Flip 3
Galaxy Z Flip 5G
Galaxy Z Flip
And, finally, Samsung has also confirmed that Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy A54, and Galaxy A53 will all be eligible, as well as some M-series devices.
Galaxy Note 20 series
Galaxy A54
Galaxy A53
Galaxy A34
Galaxy A33
Galaxy M54
Galaxy M53
Galaxy M34
Galaxy M33
Update: To address the elephant in the room, the Galaxy S20 series, Note 20 series, Flip/5G, and Fold 2 were not expected to get One UI 6.0, but Samsung’s wording here is pretty clear. The quote below is a footnote on Samsung’s blog post and refers to a new camera feature which requires One UI 6.0 or higher, meaning that the devices listed would need to be getting the update.
Available on Galaxy S23 series, S22 series, S21 series, S20 series, Note20 series, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, Z Fold4, Z Flip4, Z Fold3, Z Flip3, Z Fold2, Z Flip 5G and Z Flip LTE, A54, A53, A34, A33, M54, M53, M34, M33 devices operating on One UI 6.0 or above.
We have reached out to Samsung for comment on the status of 2020 device updates.
These devices will all get One UI 6.0 in time, and likely pretty quickly if last year’s Android 13 rollout serves as any indication. For now, though, we’re still waiting on Samsung to release Android 14 to the Galaxy S23 series in the US, which is coming “soon.”
This initial list, notably, is by no means complete. Samsung’s current policy for software updates means that many more smartphones and tablets will be updated to Android 14, but the company has not officially confirmed anything outside of this initial list.
After being next in line for quite some time, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 are both eligible for the One UI 6 beta.
One UI 6 beta has been available for well over a month. Galaxy lineups like the S23 series and even some A series devices have already been included in that beta, which brings a refinement of the previous version with general improvements made in Android 14.
For some time after the initial release, it was thought that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 would see One UI 6 beta sooner than others, but that hasn’t been the case. At least, until today.
One UI 6 for the Fold 5 has officially rolled out first (via SamMobile). The beta for the Flip 5 was later spotted on Reddit. The beta rollout looks to be coming to the Fold 5 in the US and India, whereas it isn’t entirely clear where the Flip 5 is seeing the new beta version. We were able to pull the beta card up in the Members app on the Fold 5.
Both devices will see One UI 6 beta version 1, which comes with the version number F946BXXU1ZWJ2 for the Fold 5 and F73U1EU1ZWJ2 for the Flip 5. Each also includes the October security patch.
Samsung hasn’t detailed a timeframe for other phones in its foldable lineup. Considering it took this long to bring the One UI 6 beta to the Fold 5 and Flip 5, it could be a little longer. Even still, One UI 6’s stable release isn’t far away.
The Galaxy S23 is getting its fifth One UI 6 beta update, which could only mean One UI 6 based on Android 14 is getting closer to public release.
After a rocky start, the Galaxy S23 and a few other devices have been included in the One UI 6 beta program. So far, it’s gone through five different versions of the OS, each addressing bugs and issues common to beta versions and including new features.
Now, Samsung is releasing version 5 of the One UI 6 beta, and the Galaxy S23 is the first to see it (via SamMobile). This variant ends ZWIK and is being pushed to the Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra – Samsung’s flagship devices.
This version of One UI 6 seems to have one purpose – fix issues introduced in previous versions. While other versions included new features, One UI 6 beta 5 only mentions hotfixes.
Bugs that have been fixed
Fixed the problem of not being able to record during a call
Fixed no touch at the bottom of the screen or ghost touch issue
Fixed the issues of stuck after entering camera, forced termination, and not being able to take pictures
Fixed the problem of not being able to use Motion Photo
Fixed infinite rebooting problem when entering Maintenance Mode
Many other improvements
Some of these fixes address experience-ending issues, like not being able to register touch input at the bottom of the screen. Another urgent fix takes on the infinite boot loop some have experienced in Maintenance Mode. The changelog seems to infer that this version brings a much more stable version of One UI 6, as the “Many other improvements” entry suggests.
This version of the One UI 6 beta was first spotted in the UK but is likely going to expand to other regions in a very short amount of time. You can keep an eye out in the Samsung Members app. A One UI 6 beta card should appear at the top if your device is eligible.
Galaxy A53 sees first One UI 6 update
As the Galaxy S23 lineup is seeing its fifth iteration of One UI 6, the Galaxy A53 is finally getting its first. We’ve seen One UI 6 make its way to the Galaxy A54 and A34, but doubling down on budget device betas with a previous generation is a great move from Samsung.
This year the company started prioritizing not only its flagship lineup but budget models as well, which make up a huge portion of the market. By requesting feedback from beta versions on these devices, it’s likely Samsung is able to round out the experience a little better for all users.
The Galaxy A53 should see the new update in the Samsung Members app under the version number A536EXXU7ZWIA.
After years of being the lone option, Samsung finally has some foldable competition in the US, and that partially takes the form of Google’s Pixel Fold, which comes in at the same price as Samsung’s brand-new Galaxy Z Fold 5. But after using both devices, there’s a clear better option.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 vs. Pixel Fold: How they compare on paper
When you look at the spec sheet alone, Google’s Pixel Fold and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 are rather similar. Both have 7.6-inch inner displays, plenty of RAM and storage and hinges that are rated for at least 200,000 folds.
The differences really come down to the details. The Pixel Fold has a wider aspect ratio to both of its displays. The 17.4:9 ratio of the outer display is short and wide compared to the Fold 5’s 23.1:9 ratio, which is extremely tall and narrow. The Pixel is also considerably thinner at 12.1mm to the Fold 5’s 13.4mm. Despite that, Pixel Fold also has a bigger battery at 4,821 mAh.
Google Pixel Fold
Galaxy Z Fold 5
Outer display
5.8 inch, 17.4:9 ratio
6.2 inch 23.1:9 ratio
Inner display
7.6 inch, 6:5 ratio
7.6 inch, 21.6:18 ratio
Processor
Google Tensor G2
Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Storage/RAM
256GB/512GB UFS 3.1 + 12GB RAM
256/512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 + 12GB RAM
Hinge rating
200,000 open/close
200,000 open/close
Thickness
12.1mm folded/5.8mm unfolded
13.4mm folded/6.1mm unfolded
Battery
4,821 mAh
4,400 mAh
Cameras (rear)
48MP/10.8MP 5x/10.8MP UW
50MP/10MP 3x/12MP UW
Price
$1,799
$1,799
How the two compare, though, really comes down to actually using them.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is boring in the best way
If you’ve looked into a foldable before now, you’ve likely looked at the Galaxy Z Fold series. And through that eye, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 doesn’t seem all that new, and that’s because it isn’t. The design of the device hasn’t really changed much at all over the past three years, and compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 before it, the Fold 5 really only has a new hinge, and that’s about it.
But the lack of major upgrades in Samsung’s flagship foldable has led to something perhaps more important.
Samsung’s foldable tech has just gotten really, really polished over the past couple of generations. The company has spent its time addressing the little problems, like improving the screen brightness, extending battery life, and improving the hinge, rather than hitting bigger issues like the display crease and cameras. In Samsung’s eyes, it seems, those aspects are “good enough,” where others still need work. And after using the Fold 5 for a few weeks, I mostly agree. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 really just feels like it’s as good as this particular form factor can get without bigger changes. And if you like this overall package, it’s really just a great refined product.
Beyond that, another strength of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is its software. While One UI is a heavy skin on top of Android, it’s packed with features that are useful on the Fold 5’s bigger display and ones that Google’s cleaner Android build just doesn’t have.
Of course, none of this is to say the Galaxy Z Fold 5 isn’t without its flaws. The tall and narrow outer display isn’t great for typing and doesn’t play very well with some apps. The inner display’s taller nature also means that a lot of apps never trigger a tablet interface, which makes some apps feel less optimized for the form factor.
Pixel Fold is undeniably good – it’s just not as good
That’s why the Pixel Fold falls – death by a thousand cuts.
The Pixel Fold’s downsides really just outweigh the good. The Tensor chip inside is plenty powerful, but it’s prone to overheating very easily, which is a really hard pill to swallow at this price point.
The screens also aren’t nearly as bright as Samsung’s, and Google’s crease isn’t any better either. Samsung’s crease still isn’t good, and it’s very noticeable, but Google’s is wider and thus felt more often.
There’s also the hinge. While I stand by the opinion that the Pixel’s hinge not easily sitting at 180 degrees isn’t a problem, I’ve much enjoyed not having to apply the bit of extra pressure on the hinge when using the Fold 5. It’s just a much more consistent feel. Similarly, the Fold 5’s inner display is much easier to type on because Google’s phone is just way too wide.
Battery life is also another sore point for the Google device. Whereas Samsung’s latest generation has pulled off some kind of miracle by upping endurance significantly compared to the last model, the Pixel Fold suffers from mediocre battery life. Often I find the device struggling to make it through a long day, whereas the Galaxy just seems to keep on chugging along.
Really, the perks of Pixel Fold come down to just two aspects.
Firstly, there’s the aspect ratio. Google’s device has a short and wide outer display that makes way for a very wide inner display. This means that the outside is far more usable than Samsung’s, and the inner display triggers more tablet apps. I still think this leads to too many poor app experiences (like Instagram, Reddit, and so on), but when it works, it just works really nicely.
Google Weather on the Pixel Fold
The other point is, of course, the camera. Google’s Pixel line has built its entire legacy on the camera, and that translates wonderfully to the Fold. The 48MP primary camera takes shots that look great and that, more importantly, I can trust. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 will pump out a good shot now and then, but it’s not consistent enough. Two shots taken back to back can look drastically different, for example. Plus, the Pixel Fold has a much better 5x telephoto camera that absolutely destroys the Galaxy Z Fold 5’s camera setup at range. There’s just no competition there: Google has the way better camera.
Tensor is a real problem in a pricey foldable
Google’s Tensor processor is unique to Pixel phones, and it’s not a terrible chip. It has plenty of power, and Google uses its AI strengths to optimize a few features and the camera experience too. However, Tensor is just not as good as a modern Snapdragon chip.
Tensor tends to overheat quickly and struggles with battery efficiency when on a cellular network, especially if signal is spotty. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Galaxy Z Fold 5, though, is as good as it gets in an Android phone. It’s exceptionally powerful and extremely efficient, which leads to great battery life on the Fold 5.
Personally, I’m usually willing to put up with Tensor’s deficiencies because Pixel phones are usually a lot cheaper than the competition, but that’s not the case with the Pixel Fold. Google’s foldable costs $1,799, the same as Samsung’s device, and Google doesn’t offer the same discounts and trade-ins to go with that. Tensor shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for a normal Pixel phone, but it is absolutely a valid killer on the Fold.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the better foldable
Where the Pixel’s aspect ratio and cameras are genuine improvements in many ways, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 makes strides where it counts. The screen is brighter and better. The hinge is smoother and tougher. The chip inside is stronger and much less prone to overheating. And there are perks Google just can’t match, like stylus support and a much more fleshed-out accessories ecosystem.
Don’t think it can be argued. Objectively, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the better foldable.
But…
Why some still using the Pixel Fold
Despite the Pixel Fold’s many shortcomings, it’s the one some going to keep using. Why? It really boils down to one thing – the camera.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 gets a whole lot right, but its camera is a deal-breaker for me. It’s too unreliable, and as such, I’ve always dual-wielded a Pixel phone alongside a Galaxy Z Fold device for the past three years. But now that I have the option to get a foldable Pixel, that’s what I choose to carry because, most of the time, I only want to carry one device.
One UI 6 is now available to the public in beta form, which means those with certain Samsung Galaxy devices will be able to install the new version of One UI and dive into everything new. Here’s how to install One UI 6 beta on your device.
Samsung’s One UI 6 beta is finally here, open for users to install and take for a spin before the full release a few months from now. Similar to the previous version of One UI, users will be able to sign up for the beta version and receive access to an update that will carry the latest OS to their Galaxy device.
One UI 6 is based on Android 14 and offers some exciting new features. The most forward-facing change is the new adjusted UI, which simplifies the overall look of One UI’s overall design language. The Quick Settings panel is now sectioned off into cards. Individual cards house Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Quick Settings controls that feature a 4×3 layout with multiple pages.
The simplified approach is reminiscent of existing Android operating systems like ColorOS from Oppo. It could also be likened to an iOS-type UX with how transparent the cards are to what lays behind the control panel. Either way, it’s a divisive change that will get its fair share of exploration now that a beta version is available.
How to sign up and install the One UI 6 beta
Samsung’s approach to distributing the One UI 6 beta is extremely user-friendly. You simply need to sign up via the Samsung Members app on your Galaxy device and wait for an update to push to your phone. Make sure the Samsung Members app is installed on your device and you have an account set up.
In the Samsung Members app, swipe through the top banner and find the card that reads One UI Beta Program. Tap it.
Tap Register.
Agree to the terms listed by taping Enroll and then Agree.
Note: A pop-up may appear, letting you know you are enrolled.
Head to the settings by swiping down once and tapping the settings cog.
Scroll to the bottom and tap Software update.
Tap Download and install.
Your device will start downloading One UI 6 beta.
Once you finish the above process, you’ll see One UI 6 begin its installation procedure. That generally takes about 10 minutes, with some extra waiting time for the app optimization segment.
Once your Galaxy device is finished, you should be up and running with One UI 6 beta.
What devices are supported?
At this time, there are only a couple of devices supported. Currently, Samsung is limiting the One UI 5 beta to the Galaxy S23 series including:
Galaxy S23
Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung may also have plans to bring the beta to more devices down the road, including the Galaxy Z Fold 4, Flip 4, and more.
Where can I use the One UI 6 beta?
Samsung has officially announced that the One UI 6 beta will be available first in just three countries:
United States
Germany
South Korea
This limited list is likely only temporary, though. In years past, Samsung has offered the beta on an almost global scale, and there’s no reason to expect we won’t see it expand in time with this latest iteration.
Looking for a Samsung experience on the cheap? The Galaxy A04s is as low as it gets in the Samsung hierarchy. But being inexpensive does not always mean something is good value, so it’s worth having a closer look at this popular entry-level device.
Surprisingly, we also found that Samsung is also offering another model – the Galaxy M13 – which is almost identical with some minor differences in the camera department. The Indian version of the Galaxy M13 is essentially the same phone as the Galaxy A04s but with an even bigger battery. The Galaxy A13 is another phone released earlier this year that almost completely matches the A04s specs.
We won’t blame you if you are confused, but the key takeaway is that the Galaxy A04s probably offers the same user experience as the two M13s. So for all intents and purposes, you can use this review as a reference point for the M13 and M13 (India) as well.
Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct.
In any case, the Galaxy A04s runs on a low-end Exynos 850 SoC paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage with a microSD card expansion slot. It’s evident that we are talking about a mid-€100 phone, but we were surprised to see a display with a high refresh rate. The 6.5-inch IPS display is 90Hz, albeit with 720 x 1600px resolution.
Since the Exynos 850 chipset relies on a power-efficient CPU with eight low-power Cortex-A55 cores, we expect great battery endurance in our tests. The 5,000 mAh battery will last you quite a bit, although it will also take more than an hour to fully charge.
Lastly, the device runs on a lightweight version of Samsung’s user interface called One UI Core 4, which in turn is based on Android 12.
Unboxing the Samsung Galaxy A04s
The device ships in a small retail box containing just the user manuals and a pin for the SIM card tray.
Unfortunately, Samsung didn’t include a charger or protective case. But you do get a USB-C to USB-C cable, though.
Competition
An entry-level smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy A04s has simple hardware meant to carry out simple tasks. The phone doesn’t stand out with anything in particular, but you get a decent camera performance in good lighting conditions and dependable battery life. Samsung’s matured, and customizable One UI 4.1 Core is also an advantage, albeit being a toned-down version of the original One UI.
Popular phone manufacturers don’t have that many entry-level models on offer, so in our comparative market research for this review, we found few worthy alternatives. Most competitors in this price bracket, such as the Realme C31, C3 or the C25Y, are hard to recommend due to using inferior Unisoc chipsets.
At the time of reviewing, the Samsung Galaxy A04s has a retail price of around €150 for its 32GB/3GB version. If you are going to use your phone’s camera and messaging features frequently, we’d recommend going for a 64GB model as you would find yourself running out of storage on the 32GB model way before the phone’s warranty has run out.
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 falls in the same price category, asking around €160 and running a much more competent Snapdragon 680 chipset along with a standard 4GB/64GB memory configuration. It also impresses with stereo speakers, a 90Hz OLED panel with Gorilla Glass 3 on top, a more versatile camera setup and, of course, faster charging and longer battery life. The Gorilla Glass 3 and IP53 certification against water splash and dust is a nice bonus. It’s hands-down the better smartphone, and the only reason you might want to go for the Galaxy A04s is Samsung’s brand name.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 • Realme 9i
If you decide to go up the price ladder by a little, you might want to consider Realme 9i. It asks €170-180, but it’s also running a more capable Snapdragon 680 chip, a better display with higher resolution, faster charging and a nicer selfie camera. Stereo speakers are also on the menu, and Realme’s UI is smoother on the Snapdragon 680 SoC. It may cost a few bucks more, but you are getting a better value for the money.
Now it’s time for some homegrown competition. The Galaxy A04s, Galaxy A13 and Galaxy M13 are priced similarly and have similar hardware and features, with all four having equally sized LCDs and the same Exynos 850 chipset. In fact, the Galaxy A13 is slightly cheaper than the A04s in Europe, while the Indian M13 version is cheaper and at the same time, has a larger 6,000 mAh battery.
There are a few key differences, though, and they do not favor the most recently released Galaxy A04s. The A13 and M13 offer ultrawide cameras, better selfie sensors and higher-resolution displays. Sure, the Galaxy A04s has a 90Hz display, but the frequent lag when navigating the One UI on the underpowered Exynos 850 defeats the purpose of having a smoother display. And in 2022, a 720p resolution screen doesn’t sit well. Additionally, the M13 starts at 4GB/64GB, whereas the A04s settles for a 3GB/32GB standard configuration, which is an inadequate level of storage.
The same goes for the Indian M13 variant – it just makes the A04s obsolete at launch. There’s no reason to go for the A04s when you have an M13 on the shelves.
And then, there’s last year’s Galaxy A13 5G that launched in December 2021. It runs on the twice as powerful MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, its base configuration is 64/4GB, and it’s priced at around €170. It’s essentially the same device with more horsepower and support for 5G connectivity, so if you are dead set on getting a Samsung phone, we believe the extra €20 for the Galaxy A13 5G can go a long way towards getting you a better smartphone experience.
Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy A04s is a cheap entry-level device – quite possibly the cheapest Galaxy smartphone you can get. It has a high-refresh-rate screen, an okay primary camera, and very good battery life, so it is a solid upgrade to last year’s Galaxy A03s. Unfortunately, this is hardly enough to tilt the scales in its favor.
The phone’s performance is subpar, and the storage space provided by the base memory configuration is inadequate. It could work for someone who is mainly interested in staying in touch by mostly making calls and the occasional messaging. But for more demanding use cases, we find the A04s hard to recommend. With a low max brightness and low resolution, laggy software experience, and slow charging, there are better options out there – some even coming from Samsung’s own camp.
Pros
Good battery life.
The daylight camera quality is solid, selfies are decent. Video capture is also good, despite the 1080p resolution cap.
One UI 4.1 Core on top of Android 12 is customizable, mature and has plenty of features.
3.5mm jack, microSD, NFC.
Cons
Subpar performance, lag and slowdowns are frequent.
Display is only 720p, while the smooth 90Hz refresh rate is pointless with so much UI lag.
Virtual proximity sensor can be inconsistent, lack of ambient light sensor means brightness adjustment is suboptimal.
Samsung Galaxy smartphones are known for their sleek design, powerful performance, and stunning screens. However, accidents happen, and sometimes these screens can get damaged. When faced with a cracked or malfunctioning screen, many people may consider trying to fix it themselves or going to a local repair shop. However, there are several benefits to opting for professional Samsung Galaxy screen repair services in Australia.
One of the key benefits of choosing professional repair services is the expertise and experience they offer. Professional technicians have undergone extensive training and have the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose and fix various issues with Samsung Galaxy screens. They understand the intricacies of these devices and can provide accurate assessments of the problem.
Another advantage of professional screen repair services is that they use genuine parts. When you take your Samsung Galaxy to an authorized service center, you can be assured that only original parts will be used during repairs. Genuine parts are designed specifically for Samsung devices, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
Using genuine parts also means that your device warranty remains intact. Attempting to fix your Samsung Galaxy screen yourself or going to an unauthorized repair shop could void your warranty. By choosing professional repair services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your warranty will not be affected.
Professional Samsung Galaxy screen repair services also offer convenience. Most authorized service centers provide quick turnaround times, allowing you to get your device back in working order as soon as possible. Additionally, many service centers offer online booking systems or walk-in appointments, making it easy for you to choose a time that suits your schedule.
Furthermore, professional repair services often come with warranties on their workmanship. This means that if any issues arise after the screen has been repaired, you can take it back to the service center for further assistance without incurring additional costs.
Lastly, opting for professional repair services can save you money in the long run. While DIY repairs or third-party repairs may seem cheaper initially, they often come with risks. Without proper knowledge and tools, you may end up causing further damage to your device, resulting in more expensive repairs or even the need to replace the entire phone. Professional technicians can ensure that the repair is done correctly the first time, saving you from unnecessary expenses.
In conclusion, professional Samsung Galaxy screen repair services in Australia offer several benefits. From their expertise and experience to the use of genuine parts and warranty coverage, these services provide a reliable and convenient solution for dealing with cracked or malfunctioning screens. By choosing professional repair services, you can be confident that your Samsung Galaxy will be in capable hands and restored to its original condition.
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Another Samsung Unpacked event has come to pass, and this one brought us the fourth generation of foldable Galaxy smartphones. Quite expectedly, Samsung announced the fourquels of the Fold and Flip, the first being more like a foldable tablet, while the Flip – a nostalgia-sprinkled flip phone.
Today, we will be exploring the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, which is much like the Galaxy Z Flip3, but better. This is a formula that’s been in use for years now as the technology cannot advance as fast as makers are bringing a new version of their phones. But while the new Z Flip4 won’t make many (if any) Z Flip3 owners upgrade, it improves enough bits to make even more people think of getting this new foldable flagship.
Samsung has improved on the Galaxy Z Flip3 by tweaking all weak points both reviewers and users have agreed upon – low-light camera performance, battery life, charging speed. And, of course, the new Z Flip4 gets to boast the most current Android chip – the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1.
The new Galaxy Z Flip4 features the same internal Dynamic AMOLED 2X and external Super AMOLED screens as the Z Flip3. But thanks to reduced bezels around the foldable screen and a flatter aluminum frame, the Z Flip4 is now a bit shorter and with a thinner hinge.
The Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X remains equally adaptive with up to 120Hz refresh rate and equally bright with a peak brightness up to 1200 nits. The crease in the middle is here to stay for now and so is the perforation for the selfie camera.
The Z Flip4 is IPX8-rated for water resistance – a feature that only Samsung offers across its third and fourth generation of foldable devices. Samsung and Sony are the only two makers that aim to offer water protection on most of their phones, and we truly appreciate the effort.
Besides the chipset upgrade, the Galaxy Z Flip4 also features an improved camera system on the back. It is still a dual-camera setup, but the main shooter now relies on a larger 12MP sensor with 1.8µm pixels coupled with a wider 24mm f/1.8 OIS lens. This new sensor should allow for a 65% improvement in light gathering and improve the low-light performance. The 12MP ultrawide and 10MP selfie cameras remain the same as on the Flip3.
The Galaxy Z Flip4 is powered by a 12% larger battery – it now packs a 3,700mAh cell, up from 3,300mAh within the Flip3. And even better, the phone now supports 25W fast charging, up from the sluggish 15W. The wireless fast charging has been sped up, too, now up to 15W.
And that’s about it – a new chipset, main camera, battery, and improved charging speed. And the latest Android version with the most current One UI, of course.
Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct.
Going through the specs sheet, there is little missing – a zoom camera comes at the top of our head. The improved hinge should be fine for at least 200,000 cycles, and we appreciate the improved Gorilla panels and the tougher aluminum frame, even if by small margins.
Unboxing the Galaxy Z Flip4
The Galaxy Z Flip4 ships with an incredibly thin and lightweight box. It is lying open, face-down in there, waiting for its first user. A thin paper compartment houses the USB-C cable and the SIM ejector. And that’s all you will find.
There is no charger or case within the retail box, and if you don’t own Samsung’s 25W power adapter, it’s probably a good idea to buy one so you can use that fast charging.
Alternatives
The Galaxy Z Flip4 is a minor upgrade over the Flip3 even if it introduces some important improvements like a larger battery, faster charging, and better low-light performance for the main camera. We did appreciate the option to shoot in full resolution with the rear camera when taking selfies, too.
Obviously, these won’t make any Galaxy Z Flip3 user upgrade to Flip4. But by addressing most of the Flip3 concerns, Samsung has made the Z Flip4 an even more attractive and desirable offer.
The new Flip4 launches at €1080/$999, which is a flagship price, but not as high as €1800 like the Fold4. And for that, we’d consider it a reasonable price for features/money ratio.
There are a handful of foldable smartphones on the market, fewer even if we are to list foldable smartphones like the Flip and exclude foldable tablets like the Fold.
If you are keen on getting a phone like the Flip, but the price of the Flip4 does not fit your budget, you may want to consider the Galaxy Z Flip3 as it is now €400 cheaper than the Flip4. It is pretty much the same device with less inspiring battery life, charging speed and so-so low-light performance.
The recently announced Motorola Razr 2022 will launch any moment now in China, but we are not sure if it will make it to other markets yet. It is based on a 6.7-inch foldable screen, like the Flip4, but it’s got 1B colors and a 144Hz refresh rate. The chipset is the same, and the camera experience is similar. The Razr has an iconic form factor and a larger external display that allows for even more control while the phone is closed.
The rest of the foldable phones are rather large – like the €1800 Galaxy Z Fold4. It’s an all-powerful smartphone with one of the largest OLED screens on a smartphone and an under-display camera for video chats; it’s got a whole bunch of cameras, and the external display is as good as the market offers, large at that. If you don’t mind having a phone this thick (16mm) and heavy (263g), the Fold4 could be your next phone.
Xiaomi has recently announced its Mix Fold 2 – which is even thinner than the Fold4 with larger screens and Leica-powered camera setup. It has a sleeker design and charges faster, but for now, it’s a China-only device.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G • Motorola Moto Razr 2022 • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 • Xiaomi Mix Fold 2
If you are eyeing the Flip4 because of its compact shape, you may also want to consider some of the compact bars that are available right now. Like the €700 Galaxy S22, which has a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, powerful hardware, and its triple-camera on the back has a 3x telephoto.
The €800 Zenfone 9 is even smaller with a 5.9-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED screen, the most recent Snapdragon chipset, and a similar dual-camera that is capable of high-quality digital zoom though. The Zenfone 9 also offers outstanding battery life!
There is also the small iPhone 13 mini, which is the smallest flagship on the market based on a 5.4-inch screen. It is the most powerful small phone in the world right now, and the only major setback is the 60Hz OLED screen.
Samsung Galaxy S22 5G • Asus Zenfone 9 • Apple iPhone 13 mini
verdict
The Galaxy Z Flip went from a fashion-centric device to a full-blown flagship in just a couple of generations. The Flip4 is what the Flip3 should have been from the get-go – a powerful foldable smartphone with excellent camera performance, decent battery life and charging speed.
And indeed, we can say a lot of positive things about the new Z Flip4 – it has a superb water-proofed design that will hit the nostalgia notes across many users. It’s a compact flip phone, one that clicks simply great.
The Z Flip4 offers an excellent AMOLED screen, good battery life, good charging speed, and the speakers are nice. It also packs the most powerful Android chip to date, though the thermals lead to throttling.
Finally, the camera performance is superb across the board, photo and video, day and night.
We consider the Flip4 as the most affordable foldable smartphone of the current generation, and for its thousand euros, it delivers an outstanding set of features.
It’s not an ideal smartphone – it takes a while to get used to its design and form factor. Then you need to live with the crease and the plastic screen protector over the screen. Dust gets in various places, too.
Then there is the heavy throttling just after five minutes of peak loads. And there is no zoom camera.
While durability concerns remain with regular reports of bubbles forming under the screen protector along the crease, solid warranty coverage from Samsung has those reasonable fears taken care of.
The fourth generation Z Flip is moving the series into a bright future, and it does everything right with the technology it has at its disposal. We are recommending it to people who’d like to own a unique phone, small, and yet powerful and capable; to users that will take it with all of its good and not so good aspects.
Samsung is set to host its next Unpacked launch event for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 later this week, and there’s actually a ton to look forward to. Here’s everything you can expect at the event.
Samsung Unpacked 2023: What’s coming?
Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5
The biggest launch at Samsung’s event this week will be new foldables: Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Both devices are expected to be somewhat iterative in their improvements, with most of the upgrades coming to the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
Samsung is set to improve on the Flip 5 primarily with a new cover display that’s drastically bigger than the Flip 3 and Flip 4. The display is expected to open support for a full keyboard and more useful widgets, but it’s unclear if full apps will be supported.
Both devices will also bring upgrades such as Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, a new hinge that allows the foldables to close fully instead of leaving a gap, and some new colors and cases.
Galaxy Tab S9 series
Samsung’s flagship tablets are also getting a refresh at Unpacked this year, with Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra on the docket.
The main upgrade is Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, but there are other little tidbits beyond that, such as eSIM support, AMOLED on the smallest model, and more. It’s a welcome arrival, as it’s been a little over a year since Samsung last launched high-end Android tablets.
The standard Watch 6 is only seeing a couple of notable changes: a W930 chipset that should be a little faster and thinner bezels that make room for a bigger display. The RAM is also jumping from 1.5 GB to 2 GB.
Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch 6 Classic will revive the physical rotating bezel in addition to the standard model’s upgrades.
It’s possible these watches will also debut Wear OS 4, which was announced at Google I/O and brings several benefits, with the ability to connect to a new phone without a reset being one of the biggest perks.
The maybes
Outside of the core lineup, there are a few more things we might also see, but there’s not much known.
Galaxy SmartTag 2
One of the most likely unveilings might be the Galaxy SmartTag 2. Samsung hasn’t launched a new version of its tracker since the debut of Galaxy S21 over two years ago. There have been reports and regulatory evidence of this new model, but we haven’t seen any images leak, so there’s no guarantee.
Samsung’s XR headset
Samsung has been rumored to launch its own mixed-reality headset based on a new version of Android that was expected to arrive at this event. But rumor has it Samsung has delayed that device by a few months in the wake of Apple Vision Pro’s debut.
A small teaser is what we’d expect at the absolute most.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE & Galaxy S23 FE
Samsung’s “Fan Edition” lineups may return soon, as there’s strong evidence pointing towards upcoming releases for Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy S23 FE. While there’s a chance they could arrive at this event, it’s not very likely.
It’s been a bit since Samsung released a new set of earbuds, and there’s certainly a chance we could see a launch this week. But there’s only been one report on that matter and no leaks whatsoever. So we don’t expect to hear anything – no pun intended – on that front.
Reserve for a $50USD discount and Trade in at Samsung Australia for a $100AUD discount
Up until the day before Unpacked, Samsung is offering open reservations for the Fold, Flip, and Tab S9 series. All of those devices will be eligible for a $50 credit on pre-order, which can be used as a discount on the device or for accessories. In any case, it’s worth signing up if you think you might put in a pre-order.
In a teaser, Samsung confirmed that its next Galaxy Unpacked event will take place on July 26 – just a few days from now.
The event, held in Seoul, South Korea, will start at 7 a.m. ET and livestreamed via YouTube and Samsung’s social channels.
The event, at least according to rumors, will be headlined by serving as the launch date of Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Beyond that, a new Galaxy Tab S9 series is expected, as is the Galaxy Watch 6 series. There’s also a chance of new earbuds, a new SmartTag tracker, and potentially more.
Samsung has reservations now for its new devices.
Those who sign up at Samsung.com or through the Shop Samsung app will be eligible for a $50 credit with the purchase of their device. Samsung has offered this reservation credit for quite a while, but this year it can be applied towards the actual cost of the device rather than just towards accessories (which you can still use it towards). You’ll get the credit when pre-ordering Galaxy Z Fold 5, Flip 5, or the new tablets.
There’s no commitment for this either – just drop in your email. Samsung has, in the past, also offered enhanced trade-ins with these reservations, but that doesn’t seem to be the case this time around.
If history serves as an example, Samsung will start shipping devices to customers within a week or two of the event, likely by the second week of August at the latest.
Full Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5 specs surface in super-cryptic leak
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5 are set to be the next foldable phones to come out of Samsung’s production line this year. With the release still to come, the Flip 5 and Fold 5 specs are already public thanks to a fun leak.
Through a convoluted process – obtaining a link through binary code posted on Twitter via SnoopyTech – every technical detail of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 specs are now public. That includes display type, size, and SoC choice for each foldable.
First off, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 will unsurprisingly house two displays, one internal and another external. This go-around, Samsung is packing a much larger display on the outside of the Flip 5. That display hits 3.4-inches across at a resolution of 748 x 720. Internally, the Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel will come in at 6.7-inches and looks to be capable of hitting up to 120Hz, which flexible screen will be 2640 x 1080.
Internally, the Flip 5 is packed with 8 GB of RAM paired with either 256GB or 512GB and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The clamshell foldable is also equipped with a 3,700mAh battery, which should last a decent amount of time. On the back, a 12MP primary and 12MP ultra-wide are set into the external display.
The device is set to come in four colors: Lavender, Mint, Cream, and Graphite.
As for the Z Fold 5 specs, things get a little more intense. Both display sizes hit the same size as the previous generation and are backed by a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel. The external display hits 6.2-inches at 2176 x 1812 while the internal screen comes in at 7.6-inches. Both are capable of 120Hz while the external display’s variable refresh rate hits a minimum of 48 frames per second.
Inside, the Fold 5 houses 12 GB of RAM with either 256GB or 512GB and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The battery inside is a 4,400mAh unit, which isn’t a physical improvement over the Fold 4. The Fold 5 will come with a 50MP main sensor and 12MP ultra-wide. The telephoto lens paired with the other two is also 12MP.
Something to note within the released specs is that the Z Fold 5 seems to come in at 13.4mm tall when folded. That’s about 0.8mm thinner than the Z Fold 4. The foldable is also reportedly 10 grams lighter in this generation.
The Fold 5 will come in Phantom Black, Cream, and Icy Blue.
Interestingly enough, neither device seems to come with a dust resistance rating packed in the IPX8 rating listed. It was rumored both devices might get certified, though an “X” still stands in the current dust resistance classification.
Both devices will run Android 13 (One UI 5.1.1) out of the box, which houses some seriously impressive features. Samsung is set to reveal the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 in July. Previous reports indicate a release date of August 11.
Galaxy Z Flip 5 outer display reportedly gets Google Maps, Messages, and YouTube apps
The upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 5 is set to bring the overdue upgrade of a big outer display and, apparently, Samsung is working with Google to bring select apps to that display including Maps and more.
As has been revealed by past leaks, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is likely to deliver a 3.4-inch cover display that takes up almost the entire top half of the device. It’s a drastic improvement from the tiny 1.9-inch panel on Galaxy Z Flip 4, and even bigger than the Oppo Find N2 Flip’s panel.
What users can do on that outer display, though, has been largely unknown outside of a previous report that mentioned new widgets and features.
Now, a report from SamMobile details that the Galaxy Z Flip 5’s outer display will be getting some “optimized” apps from Google. This apparently includes:
Google Maps
Google Messages
YouTube
These “optimized” apps will also apparently be backed up by Samsung’s apps, which the report says to “expect” to be ready for the cover display.
But still, it’s unclear if Samsung’s phone will be able to match that of the new Motorola Razr+. That device has an even-bigger 3.6-inch display which, as we previously detailed, can run virtually an Android app.
Samsung is set to unveil Galaxy Z Flip 5 in July, the company has confirmed.