Samsung has recently launched the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition in South Korea, introducing a host of enhancements that distinguish it from the Galaxy Z Fold 6. With a redesigned form factor and upgraded camera, this special edition aims to elevate the foldable experience. Here’s an in-depth look at what sets the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition apart.
Redesigned Form Factor
The Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition is Samsung’s slimmest foldable device to date. Engineered to be both thinner and lighter, it offers a more streamlined and comfortable design.
When unfolded, the dimensions measure 157.9 x 142.6 x 4.9 mm, compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 153.5 x 132.6 x 5.6 mm. Even when folded, the Special Edition is slightly narrower at 157.9 x 72.8 x 10.6 mm, making it easier to hold than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which measures 153.5 x 68.1 x 12.1 mm.
In terms of weight, the Special Edition is marginally lighter at 236 grams versus the Z Fold 6’s 239 grams. The design is accentuated by a sleek Black Shadow finish, giving it a high-end aesthetic that contrasts with the variety of colors available for the Z Fold 6, which includes navy, silver, pink, black, and white.
A wider aspect ratio
The new foldable measures 164.8mm while closed and 203.1mm while opened. It adopts a 20:18 aspect ratio for the foldable screen, a notable shift from the Z Fold 6’s 4:3. This change results in a broader, more immersive display experience. The cover screen also offers a more expansive 21:9 ratio, compared to the Z Fold 6’s 22.1:9, providing a more familiar interface for users accustomed to traditional smartphones.
A high resolution main camera
One of the most notable enhancements is the camera system. The Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition features an impressive 200-megapixel primary sensor, vastly outperforming the Z Fold 6’s 50-megapixel main sensor. While the rest of the camera setup remains consistent—with a 10-megapixel telephoto lens, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10-megapixel selfie camera—the jump in primary sensor resolution promises improved photography capabilities.
Other specifications
Both the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and the Z Fold 6 share several core specifications, including the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor, a 4,400mAh battery, and support for the S Pen. Notably, the Special Edition supports Wi-Fi 7, providing an edge in connectivity over the Z Fold 6, which supports Wi-Fi 6E.
In terms of performance, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition offers a single configuration option that boasts 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. This configuration provides a significant advantage for multitasking and running intensive applications, positioning it as a high-performance device tailored for power users.
Accessories
In a departure from recent trends of excluding accessories, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition includes a complete accessory set in the package. Buyers will receive the handset, a stylish leather case, a 25W PD charger, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a SIM ejector pin, enhancing the overall value proposition.
Availability and pricing
Currently, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition is exclusive to South Korea, with potential plans for a launch in China. Interestingly, the recently released Galaxy W25 foldable in China may serve as a rebranded version of the Special Edition. The standard Galaxy Z Fold 6 is available globally, priced at $2,019 in the U.S. The Special Edition, available only in a 16GB + 512GB configuration, retails for KRW 2,789,600 (approximately $2,015).
Conclusion
Samsung has opted to label this device simply as the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, avoiding the attachment of a generation number. This choice could indicate Samsung’s strategy to position the Special Edition as a unique offering rather than just another iteration of the Galaxy Z Fold series. With its premium features and distinct design, the Special Edition may signal the future direction of high-end, exclusive foldable releases from Samsung.
