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.
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.
Galaxy Unpacked is mere days away, but we know what to expect from Samsung – another round of foldables that offer generational improvements. But is that enough for you to pull the trigger on a new Galaxy Z Fold 5 or Flip 5?
What do the Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 bring to the table?
Depending on what device you own right now, you’re looking at some improvements, just like you would with any device year over year. While the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 haven’t technically been announced, we have enough reliable information from both leaks and the company itself to get a general idea of what the new foldables improve on.
Galaxy Z Flip 5 improvements
The first thing that comes to mind is the Z Flip 5‘s completely revamped external display. It is the foremost change and center of attention in terms of Galaxy foldables prior to launch. That display is said to come in at 3.4 inches across with a resolution of 748 x 720. By comparison, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 utilizes a 1.9-inch display with a resolution of 260 x 512. That’s a 55% increase in size, and the leaked images show just how much of a difference that makes.
As for the internal panel, that AMOLED 2X display is set at 6.7 inches and can hit up to 120 frames per second. That resolution clocks in at 2640 x 1080 – no surmisable difference on paper.
With the same 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB / 512 GB loadout, the only other stark difference is the superior Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which should bring a slight performance increase over the previous generation.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 improvements
The step up from Fold 4 to Fold 5 is a little less pronounced. Each generation’s core display specs look to be, on paper, identical to each other. That includes size, resolution, and refresh rate.
Internally, the battery and memory options are the same, including 12 GB of RAM with 256 GB / 512 GB of internal storage. The only major difference here is the CPU. Just like the Flip 5, the Fold 5 will run a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for that increase in processing power and connectivity.
Physically, the Z Fold 5 sits at 0.8 mm thinner than the Z Fold 4. That matches up with what Samsung stated before the launch.
Getting ‘slimmer and lighter’
A major change affecting both the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 is the way Samsung designed the connection between the two sides of the device. In the center, it’s expected that Samsung is incorporating a new hinge system that does away with the “hinge gap” we’re used to in the Fold/ Flip 4 and prior devices. The tiny space that’s visible when the devices are closed may not exist on the Fold 5 and Flip 5, though that’s uncertain for now.
Samsung also hints at the foldables achieving a new minimum weight. It’s been reported that the Z Fold 5 will weigh a few grams more than the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The S23 Ultra isn’t exactly light as a feather, though it’s on the expected end for a solid device. For a foldable that houses two displays and a long center mechanism for smooth operation, that’s an encouraging benchmark.
Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 might take on a heavier price tag
Another area of consideration for those looking to upgrade hardware is the price at which those new foldables will be sold. Both the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Fold 4 had the same launch price – $1,799. While it’s no rainy-day money, it’s mostly understandable for relatively nascent technology, which has always followed a certain pattern. That trend generally says new tech is much more expensive, with subsequent generations getting more reasonably priced as time goes on.
That trend might have broken in 2023, as many other things have.
It’s looking like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 will see a price increase of approximately €100 each – at least in France. That said, the report is limited to European pricing, leaving US pricing currently unknown.
Google and OnePlus want your attention
The last couple of years have seen Samsung crowned as the most successful foldable manufacturer, but Google and OnePlus are vying for that title with new and upcoming devices that offer up some competition.
The Pixel Fold has gone through its announcement and release, meaning the device has stirred up some publicity – good and bad. Overall, the Pixel Fold is a solid phone with some serious potential, especially considering this is Google’s first attempt at a product the general market knows very little about. The glaring error on Google’s part is the pricing, unfortunately. At $1,799, it’s hard to justify the Pixel Fold when the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is sitting around the corner at (probably) the same price.
The OnePlus Open, on the other hand, is set to debut sometime in August. The 8-inch foldable is expected to pack a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, following in Samsung’s footsteps. While there’s no word on pricing, we’re more than confident that it will not be cheap, but it may not be as expensive as Google and Samsung feel is right.
Are you upgrading?
Let’s say you own a Galaxy Z Fold or Flip of any generation – are you trading it in or selling it to grab a Z Fold 5 or Flip 5?
It’s worth noting that those who do upgrade are more than likely to trade in, whether that’s through a carrier or directly from Samsung. At launch, Samsung has historically been more generous with trade-in values, offering more than any other buyer simply because it can recycle or resell older devices with relative ease. However, that trend has changed recently as well. The company is still running a $50 gift credit and up to $340 enhanced trade-in credit for anyone who reserves before the announcement.
We’re hoping that trading in a Galaxy Z Fold 4 for a Fold 5 means heavy savings. If trade-in values are as attractive as we’ve seen in the past, those who pre-order are likely to see a final price tag of a few hundred rather than close to $2,000. Unfortunately, there’s no telling where Samsung will set trade-in values, though it’s still a no-brainer for some looking to upgrade.
The improvements are there, but that still means an expensive device. On top of that, Google and OnePlus are becoming viable contenders. Depending on which form of Android you prefer, a foldable with OxygenOS or stock Android might sound even more appealing than Samsung’s extremely popular OneUI.
In any case, let us know your thoughts. We’re genuinely curious about how users are feeling about Samsung’s foldable prior to the official announcement. Things could change, and the Z Fold 5 or Flip 5 might be housing a bombshell improvement we know nothing about. If that isn’t the case, are you upgrading?
