It has now been a couple of months since the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip7 and the Galaxy Z Fold7. Both phones brought a range of sensible upgrades to the table and cemented themselves as top-tier options in a foldable market that’s rapidly going mainstream.
Here at Hardwired, we got to try out both of Samsung’s latest foldables, and I covered them in “Folded Futures: What’s New and Improved on the Galaxy Z Fold7” as well as “Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Hands-On: What I Liked Most”. In the Galaxy Z Fold7 article, I outlined many of the improvements and new features that have had people talking, while in the Galaxy Z Flip7 article, I spoke about some of my favourite things about the smaller form factor foldable, as a Galaxy Z Fold7 user.
As with anything new, eventually the hype settles and the fanfare over new features and improvements slowly develops into functionality that becomes part of our daily routine. What’s interesting is that some of the best features - like Flex Mode, hands-free camera tricks, and multitasking - exist on both phones, but they manifest in different ways depending on the device. The Galaxy Z Fold7 leans into productivity and screen real estate, while the Galaxy Z Flip7 turns those same features into tools for portability and spontaneity. So, with the early-stage novelty out of the way, let’s see how these two very capable foldables have become staples in the smartphone space. For those who are new to the world of foldables, consider this your first look. If you see something you like, be sure to check out our in-depth looks above.
How the Galaxy Z Fold7 fits in post-launch
Multitasking That Still Feels Magical
Multi-window might not be getting pushed to the limits like it was when everyone first got their hands on the Galaxy Z Fold7 - opening three windows and a fourth pop-up just because we could - but it’s still a fantastic way to get more done. Personally, I find having two windows open is great for more than just doomscrolling Instagram and TikTok at the same time (although that very much does go down). I can watch videos while browsing the web, or clear emails while handling related tasks in another tab. I can even stay present in conversations without jumping in and out - one window for chats, another for pretty much anything else, especially if the convo gets a little… boring.
Rear Camera Vlogging Is a Game-Changer
Now I’m not a big selfie guy, but I love sending a vlog or two to friends when I’m out and about - and being able to use the full power of the rear camera setup with the cover-screen viewfinder is a game-changer. It’s a feature that just won’t get old, and honestly, while the front camera is plenty capable, it can be hard to go back. Flex mode also allows for some creative angles and basically acts like a makeshift tripod, so that’s another win. Even casual video calls are just easier now - I don’t have to hold the phone or find something to lean it against, just prop it up and yap away.
A Cover Screen That Can Carry Your Day
My friends often laugh at me for this, but I’ve gone entire days without unfolding the phone - because the cover screen quite literally leaves nothing to be desired. Most days I get home and unwind with an unfold, whether it’s for productivity or relaxation, but there are times when life gets busy, and the cover screen handles everything I need. The new size has made it genuinely practical, and it can sometimes be easy to forget you have a phone that can become a ‘tablet’ too. I’m definitely not saying you should skip out on the full experience, but it’s cool knowing you can when necessary.
How the Galaxy Z Flip7 fits in post-launch
FlexWindow: Minimal Distraction, Maximum Utility
The FlexWindow on the Galaxy Z Flip7 has completely changed the Galaxy Z Flip experience compared to previous models. It’s no longer just a novelty - it’s actually a super capable tool that handles all the essentials without dragging you into the full-screen rabbit hole. Being able to fire off quick replies, check widgets, or even use full apps, all in a way that feels streamlined and distraction-free, is super convenient. Grocery run? You can leave the Galaxy Z Flip7 folded and still tap to pay, tick off your shopping list, and answer a call - all from that little mini-screen. The same goes for work: you don’t have to put your phone on the other side of the room just to concentrate. You can still attend to the essentials without losing your flow, which is honestly a game-changer for productivity. And I have to say, it looks awesome propped up on a desk, especially with so much room for customisation.
Camera Angles You’ll Actually Use
The Galaxy Z Flip7’s camera isn’t just about optics - it’s about the angles you can get. Prop it up half-folded on a table and you’ve got a rock-steady ‘tripod’ for timelapses, reels, or group shots - no more balancing acts with coffee cups. Quick Shot on the Flex Window is brilliant for fast captures without even opening the phone, and having a proper preview means friends don’t grimace at surprise angles. For vlogs, Flex Mode makes framing easy, whether you’re filming front-on or switching to the rear cameras for better quality. Oh, and much like the Galaxy Z Fold7, it’s also perfect for video calls on the go - you can just park the Galaxy Z Flip7 on a shelf and keep your hands free. You’ll definitely find yourself taking more photos and short clips just because the setup is so effortless now. It’s not that the camera spec magically changes your creativity - the form factor does, and as a result, you capture so many more memories.
Fold It, Forget It: The Galaxy Z Flip7’s Everyday Advantage
There’s a specific kind of freedom the Galaxy Z Flip7 gives you that slabs just don’t - it vanishes into small pockets and bags without a second thought. Gym shorts, crowded concerts, cramped commute - fold, stash, forget. We’re all pretty used to regular slab phones by now, and the idea of a phone that folds to become more compact may not have been atop your wish list, but it’s the kind of thing you start to love once you experience it. It’s a great way to slim down your everyday carry and look good doing it. Imagine going for a run without the stress of a huge slab phone threatening to slip-and-slide right out of your pocket every 20 seconds. Or maybe you’re one of those who likes to operate one-handed - as they pour coffee or walk down the office corridor - everything is literally always in reach. Sure, the Galaxy Z Flip series has always been compact, but this time it genuinely feels different. Folding is no longer a compromise that makes you think twice. No more hesitation, just everything you need.
The Takeaway
Two months in, the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 have moved beyond the initial buzz - they’ve become part of the daily routine. The Galaxy Z Fold7 has found its place as a mobile command centre, making multitasking and media feel effortless. The Galaxy Z Flip7, on the other hand, has become the minimalist’s go-to, always ready and never in the way. What started as headline-grabbing features have quietly become habits, and both phones now feel less like experiments and more like essentials you reach for without a second thought.
This article was created in a paid partnership with Samsung New Zealand.
