The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 continues to be a notable device in the foldable smartphone market, even as newer models have since been released. As a pioneering folding phone, it combined innovative design with practical functionality that appealed to tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. While Samsung has now discontinued the Galaxy Z Fold 4 in favor of newer models like the Galaxy Z Fold 6, the fourth-generation device remains relevant for those interested in the evolution of foldable technology.
Users who have owned the Z Fold 4 for an extended period report mixed experiences with durability. Some mention that their devices didn’t last two full years, highlighting potential concerns for long-term reliability. However, many still appreciate its 50-megapixel main camera, 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and 10-megapixel telephoto camera, which offer photography capabilities comparable to traditional flagship phones.
When compared to newer models like the Z Fold 6, the Z Fold 4 appears noticeably thicker due to the absence of the newer gapless fold design. This evolution shows how quickly Samsung has refined its foldable technology, with each generation addressing previous limitations while introducing new features.
The Latest on the Galaxy Z Fold 4: A Complete Guide
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series continues to define the foldable smartphone category, and the Galaxy Z Fold 4 remains one of the most influential devices in this space. While newer foldables have entered the market, the Z Fold 4 still holds relevance thanks to its refined design, strong performance, and productivity‑focused features.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Galaxy Z Fold 4—what it offers, what’s changed since launch, and whether it’s still worth considering today.
Overview: What Is the Galaxy Z Fold 4?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a premium foldable smartphone that combines a traditional phone form factor with a tablet‑like inner display. It’s designed for users who want multitasking, immersive media, and productivity in a single device.
Key highlights include:
- Large foldable inner display
- Improved hinge design
- Flagship‑level performance
- Enhanced multitasking and S Pen support
Design and Build Updates
Samsung refined the Fold 4’s design compared to earlier models:
- Lighter and thinner than the Fold 3
- More durable hinge with smoother folding
- Armor Aluminum frame for better drop resistance
- Improved water resistance (IPX8)
While it still lacks official dust resistance, the Fold 4 feels more solid and practical for everyday use than earlier foldables.
Display: Two Screens, One Experience
Outer Display
- 6.2‑inch AMOLED
- More usable aspect ratio than previous models
- Ideal for quick tasks like messaging and browsing
Inner Display
- 7.6‑inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
- Under‑display camera for a more immersive experience
Samsung also improved the crease visibility slightly, making it less noticeable during normal use.
Performance and Hardware
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 is powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 for Galaxy, offering:
- Improved performance over the Fold 3
- Better power efficiency
- Strong gaming and multitasking capabilities
Other hardware features include:
- 12GB RAM
- Up to 1TB of storage
- Stereo speakers tuned by AKG
Even by today’s standards, performance remains smooth and responsive.
Multitasking and Productivity Features
This is where the Z Fold 4 truly shines.
Key productivity tools:
- Enhanced taskbar for fast app switching
- Split‑screen and multi‑window support
- Drag‑and‑drop between apps
- S Pen Fold Edition compatibility
Samsung’s software optimizations make the large screen genuinely useful, not just impressive on paper.
Camera System
The Fold 4 received a notable camera upgrade over its predecessor:
- 50MP main camera
- 12MP ultra‑wide
- 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom
- Improved low‑light performance
While it doesn’t match Samsung’s Ultra‑series phones, camera quality is solid for a foldable and more than capable for everyday photography.
Battery Life and Charging
- 4,400mAh battery
- Supports fast wired and wireless charging
- Reverse wireless charging included
Battery life is respectable but not class‑leading, especially with heavy multitasking or extended inner‑screen use.
Software Updates and Support
Samsung has committed to:
- Multiple years of Android OS updates
- Long‑term security patches
This makes the Galaxy Z Fold 4 a safer long‑term investment compared to earlier foldable models.
Is the Galaxy Z Fold 4 Still Worth It?
The Z Fold 4 is still a strong option if:
- You want a foldable at a lower price than newer models
- Multitasking and productivity are priorities
- You’re comfortable with the foldable form factor
However, users seeking the latest hinge technology, improved battery efficiency, or camera enhancements may want to consider newer foldables.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- Large, high‑quality foldable display
- Excellent multitasking features
- Strong performance
- Premium build quality
Cons
- Expensive at launch (though discounted now)
- No dust resistance
- Average battery life for its size
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 represents a key moment in the evolution of foldable phones. It refined the concept into something more practical, durable, and productivity‑focused. While it may no longer be the newest foldable on the market, it remains a capable and forward‑thinking device—especially for users who want a phone that can replace a tablet.
Key Takeaways
- The Galaxy Z Fold 4 has been discontinued but remains an important milestone in foldable smartphone development.
- Long-term durability concerns exist for some users despite the device’s premium build and impressive camera system.
- Newer Samsung foldables offer significant improvements in thickness and design compared to the Z Fold 4’s form factor.
Design and Durability Enhancements
Samsung has made significant improvements to the Galaxy Z Fold 4‘s design and durability compared to previous models. The device now features stronger materials and better protection against everyday hazards.
Advanced Materials and Build Quality
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 showcases Samsung’s commitment to durability with its Armor Aluminum frame. This material is significantly stronger than standard aluminum, providing better protection against drops and daily wear.
The device also features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the cover display and rear panel. This upgraded glass offers improved scratch resistance and better drop protection than previous generations.
Samsung redesigned the hinge mechanism to be slimmer and more robust. The Z Fold 4 is noticeably flatter when folded compared to the Z Fold 3, making it more comfortable to hold and easier to slip into pockets.
The phone’s sides have changed from the previous matte finish to a more glossy aluminum finish. This gives the device a premium look while maintaining structural integrity.
Water Resistance Improvements
One of the most significant durability enhancements in the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is its IPX8 water resistance rating. This feature was first introduced in the Z Fold 3 and continues to be a major advantage in the newer model.
The IPX8 rating means the device can withstand submersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes. This protection gives users peace of mind when using the phone near water.
Samsung achieved this water resistance through careful engineering of internal components and seals. Special gaskets and protective coatings help keep water out of sensitive electronics.
It’s important to note that while the Z Fold 4 offers water resistance, it doesn’t have dust resistance. Users should still be careful about exposing the hinge mechanism to sand or small particles.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 offers significant improvements in hardware capability and user experience compared to previous models. Its technical foundation supports advanced multitasking, improved photography, and enhanced durability for everyday use.
Display and Visual Experience
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 features two distinct displays that serve different purposes. The external cover display measures 6.2 inches, providing quick access to notifications and basic functions.
When unfolded, users access a stunning 7.6-inch inner display with a resolution of 2176 x 1812 pixels. This main screen uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and gaming.
The inner display includes under-display camera technology, creating a more immersive viewing experience by hiding the selfie camera beneath the screen. This 4MP camera is designed to be less visible while still functioning for video calls.
Samsung has reduced the visibility of the crease where the screen folds, addressing a common criticism of earlier foldable models. The display also supports the S Pen Pro, making it useful for digital artists and note-takers.
Processing Power and Memory
The Z Fold 4 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, a flagship chipset that delivers excellent performance for demanding applications and multitasking scenarios.
This processor offers significant improvements in both processing power and energy efficiency compared to previous generations. Users can expect smooth performance even when running multiple apps simultaneously.
Memory options include 12GB of RAM standard across all models, providing ample capacity for app switching and memory-intensive tasks. Storage variants range from 256GB to a generous 1TB for power users.
The device doesn’t support expandable storage via microSD, so buyers should consider their long-term storage needs when selecting a model. The combination of high-end processor and generous RAM ensures the Z Fold 4 handles productivity tasks with ease.
Software and Security Updates
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 launched with Android 12L, a version of Android specifically optimized for larger screens and foldable devices. This software takes full advantage of the unique form factor.
Samsung promises four years of Android version updates and five years of security patches, demonstrating a strong commitment to long-term device support. This extended update policy helps protect the substantial investment required to purchase the device.
The software includes enhanced privacy features such as a privacy dashboard and indicators when the camera or microphone is in use. Samsung’s Knox security platform provides additional layers of protection for sensitive information.
One UI, Samsung’s custom Android interface, includes special optimizations for the folding form factor. These adaptations make the transition between screens more intuitive and functional.
Productivity and Multitasking Features
The Z Fold 4 excels in productivity with its taskbar feature that resembles a desktop computer interface. Users can quickly launch and switch between apps without returning to the home screen.
Split-screen multitasking allows up to three apps to run simultaneously on the main display. This capability is perfect for comparing documents, taking notes while watching videos, or monitoring social media while working.
Flex mode utilizes the phone’s ability to stay open at various angles. When partially folded, compatible apps automatically adjust their interfaces to take advantage of this unique positioning. For example, video calls can display contacts on one half and the camera view on the other.
S Pen compatibility enhances productivity for note-taking, document annotation, and creative work. The larger canvas of the unfolded display provides a natural space for these activities, though the S Pen must be purchased separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 has generated numerous questions from consumers interested in its features, performance, and value compared to other models. Many users have specific concerns about practical aspects of owning this foldable device.
What are the upgraded features in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 compared to its predecessor?
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 features a more efficient Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, providing better performance and battery life than the Z Fold 3. Its hinge design is more streamlined, making the device slightly lighter and thinner.
The outer display has a wider aspect ratio, improving typing and general usability. Samsung also enhanced the durability with stronger ultra-thin glass and improved water resistance.
The user interface has been optimized for foldable use with a new taskbar that makes multitasking more intuitive and efficient.
When was the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 officially released?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 was officially announced at Samsung’s Unpacked event on August 10, 2022. The device became available for purchase on August 26, 2022, in various markets globally.
Pre-orders began immediately after the announcement, with early adopters receiving special bonuses and trade-in offers.
How does the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4’s price compare to the previous model?
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 launched at $1,799 for the base model with 256GB storage, the same starting price as the Z Fold 3. Higher storage variants come at premium prices, with 512GB and 1TB options available.
Regional pricing varied, but Samsung maintained similar price points to the previous generation despite the hardware improvements. The company frequently offered trade-in discounts to make the device more accessible.
What are the critical reviews saying about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4’s performance and design?
Reviews praise the Z Fold 4’s performance improvements and refined design. Critics note the device feels more polished and practical for daily use than previous generations.
Some users report concerns about screen durability, with a few instances of spontaneous delamination of the inner display mentioned in forums. This appears to affect a small percentage of devices.
Battery life receives mixed reviews, with many noting it’s adequate but not exceptional for a premium device. The refined hinge mechanism and slimmer profile are consistently highlighted as significant improvements.
What improvements have been made to the camera system in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4?
The Z Fold 4 features a significant camera upgrade with a 50MP main sensor, replacing the 12MP shooter in the previous model. The ultrawide remains at 12MP, while the telephoto camera improves to 10MP with 3x optical zoom.
The under-display camera on the inner screen has been refined for better integration, though image quality remains modest. Software enhancements include improved night photography and more versatile camera controls when using the phone in Flex mode.
Overall image processing has been upgraded to deliver sharper details and better low-light performance compared to the Z Fold 3.
Are there any confirmed details about the development of a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5?
As of March 2025, Samsung has not only released the Galaxy Z Fold 5 but has moved beyond it. The Z Fold 5 launched in summer 2023 with improvements to the hinge design allowing it to close completely flat.
The Z Fold 5 featured the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, improved cameras, and enhanced durability. Industry analysts suggest Samsung is now focused on its next-generation foldable devices with emphasis on slimmer designs and improved display technology.
Samsung typically follows an annual release cycle for its flagship devices, maintaining its position in the competitive foldable phone market.
