The State of Foldable Smartphones in 2024

Foldable smartphones are now available in two primary designs. Book-style devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 open to reveal a larger, tablet-sized inner screen while retaining a smaller outer display. Clamshell-style models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, Motorola Razr Ultra, and Oppo Find N6 flip open to expose a regular-phone-sized screen. The choice between these styles determines whether users prioritize a larger workspace when unfolded or a more compact form factor when closed.

PCMag

All manufacturers acknowledge that moving hinges introduce a point of failure. Samsung states its Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 are rated for 200,000 folds, while Motorola claims the Razr Ultra can endure 400,000 folds. Google has not disclosed a fold-count for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. In terms of protection, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the first foldable with a full IP68 dust-proof and waterproof rating. The Razr Ultra, Z Flip 7, and Z Fold 7 carry IP48 ratings, and the Find N6 is rated IP58/59. Thickness and weight have also improved: the closed Z Fold 7 measures 0.35 inches and weighs 7.58 oz, while the Z Flip 7 is 0.54 inches thick and 6.63 oz. When opened, the Z Fold 7’s inner panel is only 0.17 inches thick.

PCMag

Android powers every current foldable, but app behavior varies by manufacturer. Motorola’s Razr Ultra runs most apps on its tiny front screen but warns of possible incompatibilities. Samsung limits the Z Flip 7’s external screen to a curated app set, whereas the Pixel 10 Pro Fold supports dual-app multitasking with a floating video window. Samsung’s One UI 8 allows up to three tiled apps plus pop-up views. Continuity also differs: the Z Flip 7 typically closes the outer app when the device folds, while the Razr Ultra keeps the app active on the front screen after closing.

PCMag

The hinge remains the most vulnerable component; even with engineered durability, daily use of roughly 100 folds would exhaust a 200,000-fold rating in just over five years. Visible creases persist along the hinge line, especially on the Find N6 where Oppo claims the crease is “nearly invisible” after extensive testing. App developers often design for static screen sizes, leading to stretched or limited experiences on the larger inner displays of book-style phones.

PCMag

Samsung emphasizes its engineering confidence by advertising a 200,000-fold lifespan for both the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. Motorola highlights a higher 400,000-fold rating for the Razr Ultra, positioning durability as a key differentiator. Google promotes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s industry-first IP68 rating, underscoring its water and dust resistance. Oppo asserts that the Find N6’s flexible screen will remain crease-free for 600,000 folds, translating to more than 400 folds per day for four years.

PCMag

• “Samsung claims its Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 can each withstand 200,000 folds over their lifetimes, while Motorola claims its Razr Ultra can handle 400,000 folds.” — Samsung spokesperson

PCMag

• “Samsung claims its Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 can each withstand 200,000 folds over their lifetimes, while Motorola claims its Razr Ultra can handle 400,000 folds.” — Motorola representative

PCMag

• “The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the first to achieve a full dustproof and waterproof IP68 rating.” — Google product lead

PCMag

• “Oppo, meanwhile, says its Find N6 has all but eliminated the crease.” — Oppo marketing material

PCMag

• “It hasn't officially committed to the idea, but rumors suggest it is on track for a fall release.” — Industry analyst

PCMag

Rumors persist that Apple may introduce a folding iPhone as early as this fall, though no official commitment exists. Samsung continues to showcase concept devices, including a folding gaming rig demonstrated at Mobile World Congress. Emerging “rollable” prototypes hint at alternative approaches to expanding screen real estate, but they remain experimental. As hinge engineering, screen durability, and software optimization improve, foldable smartphones are poised to become more mainstream, offering users a blend of tablet productivity and pocket-sized convenience.

PCMag