Summary
- Samsung readies Z Flip FE for launch with demo units in production
- Z Flip FE reuses Flip 6 design but may get Exynos 2400 and 12GB RAM
- At $800, Z Flip FE costs more than Motorola Razr 2025 but offers a smaller battery
We’ve known about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip FE for some time, with rumors circulating that Samsung would release a slightly more affordable folding phone. However, we didn’t know the timing, as reports cited that the device might be delayed. If true, it would slip Samsung’s entry-level foldable into a fall release window, possibly pairing it with the company’s rumored tri-fold phone, but we didn’t have a clear picture.
Related
Samsung’s budget Galaxy Z Flip FE could pack the same chip as the Galaxy S24
But not the one you’re expecting
It seems Samsung now has a grasp on production, and we’ve learned (via SammyGuru) that retail demo units are being manufactured. Retail release closely follows retail demo production, so, barring further delays, we expect the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip FE to be announced alongside the more expensive Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7. It’s also reported that the device is a rebadged Galaxy Z Flip 6, right down to its weight of 187g. Samsung will swap out internals, but we expect the design of the new device to mirror Samsung’s premium clamshell from 2024.
I don’t like the price tag for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip FE
The leaked price tag for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip FE is $800, $100 more than the competing Motorola Razr 2025. Whether Samsung goes with the Exynos 2400 or 2400e, the Z Flip FE will have a more powerful processor, but I don’t think that’s enough to make me pay extra, especially if the design remains unchanged. The Razr is stylish and sleek, the main selling points of a flip phone. While I appreciate Samsung offering a Flip at a lower price, it still doesn’t understand the assignment, and the Razr will still be the better choice for most.
The Galaxy Z Flip FE not only shares the same weight and design as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, but Samsung keeps the battery size unchanged. I get a full day of use from the 4,000mAh cell in my Galaxy Z Flip 6, but it won’t compare favorably to the 4,500mAh battery in the Motorola Razr. If Samsung includes 12GB of RAM, that would be a worthy advantage, as it means the Galaxy Z Flip FE will do better with Galaxy AI features in the future. I also expect the same 7 years of One UI software support we’ve received from Samsung on other smartphones, furthering the value. It’ll be an interesting comparison either way, and I look forward to testing the Z Flip FE on release.
