Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Review

. Essential Insights
The introduction of a new 50 MP primary sensor enhances image clarity and detail, especially in low-light environments, while the 12 MP ultra-wide and 10 MP front-facing cameras have not been modified.

The upgraded 4,000 mAh battery presents a significant enhancement compared to the Flip 5’s 3,700 mAh battery, resulting in improved overall usage duration without increasing weight or thickness.
Although the software includes numerous AI-driven features, many of these functionalities will also be accessible on the prior generation and other more affordable Samsung Galaxy models.

1. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 presents a design that is strikingly similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip 5. The primary distinguishing feature between the two models is the color of the metal surrounding the camera modules; the Z Flip 6 offers a color-matched finish to the phone's frame, in contrast to the previous model, which featured a black bezel .

At first glance, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 may appear to be a modest upgrade from the earlier version. However, having experienced the Flip 5 last year, the differences become apparent, and the Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers a surprisingly refreshing experience. From its display to the camera capabilities and battery performance, this year's model showcases the advantages of a more refined approach by Samsung.

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is accessible through all major carriers, as well as directly from Samsung's online store and prominent e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Best Buy. It is offered in storage configurations starting at 256 GB, with an additional 512 GB option available. The color selections include Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue, and Mint, along with exclusive online variants in Crafted Black, White, and Peach.

Specifications

Brand: Samsung
SoC: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2600 nits, 3.4-inch 1600 nit cover display
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256 or 512GB
Battery: 4,000 mAh
Ports: USB-C
Operating System: Android 14
Camera (Rear, Front): 50 MP, f/1.8, 23mm (wide), 12 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide), 10 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (selfie); Can You Spot the Difference?
1. The Flip 6 maintains a similar appearance and tactile experience to the Flip 5; however, it incorporates several notable enhancements throughout. Many of these improvements reflect those observed in the Galaxy S24 series released earlier this year.

The aluminum frame now features a matte finish akin to that of the Galaxy S24, in contrast to the glossy surface that was prone to fingerprints in the previous model. Additionally, it adopts the updated speaker design from the S24 series, resulting in a much more streamlined aesthetic compared to the elongated hole design of its predecessor.

In a manner similar to its book-folding counterpart, the Z Fold 6, the Flip 6 also benefits from a subtle modification to its hinge design. This new hinge protrudes slightly less than that of the Flip 5 while still preserving the nearly gapless configuration between the two folding sections.

1. In addition to the introduction of new colors and a fresh accent color ring surrounding the camera lenses, the visual modifications to the phone are largely complete. However, the most significant enhancements lie beneath the surface.

Concerns regarding the durability of foldable devices have consistently been paramount for their long-term functionality, yet this critical aspect has frequently been neglected. It is encouraging to observe Samsung making progress in this area. For the first time, the Galaxy Z series is equipped with a dust resistance rating, with the Z Flip 6 achieving an IP48 classification. This rating indicates that the device offers limited protection against dust and can withstand submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for approximately thirty minutes.

While this represents a notable advancement, it still falls short of the durability standards set by Samsung's conventional Galaxy S series, all of which feature IP68 ratings. There is also a possibility that this new rating aligns with the durability of the previous Flip 5, now presented with an official numeric designation. Nonetheless, it is a positive development to witness.

2. Beyond the introduction of new color options and a distinctive accent color ring around the camera lenses, the visual alterations to the phone are nearly complete. However, the most impactful changes are those that are not immediately visible.

Durability has long been a significant concern regarding foldable devices, particularly in terms of their longevity, yet this vital aspect has often been overlooked. It is gratifying to see Samsung making advancements in this domain. For the first time, the Galaxy Z series has received a dust resistance rating, with the Z Flip 6 achieving an IP48 classification. This rating signifies that the device offers some resistance to dust and can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for about thirty minutes.

While this is a commendable step forward, it still does not reach the durability levels of Samsung's standard Galaxy S series phones, all of which boast IP68 ratings. There is also a possibility that this rating corresponds to the durability of the previous Flip 5, now formalized with an official numeric standard. Nevertheless, it is encouraging to see this progress.
Brighter Displays

1. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 presents a slight enhancement in its primary display, achieving a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, an improvement over the 1,750 nits found in the Galaxy Flip 5's main display.

The 3.4-inch cover display remains functional for quickly reviewing notifications, managing playlists, or sending short replies to messages. As in previous models, users can access the Labs settings to run applications such as YouTube and Google Maps on this display.

A notable addition this year is Samsung’s new Interpreter feature, part of the Galaxy AI suite, which utilizes the cover display to provide live translations directly to the other party, eliminating the need for them to glance down, which is quite impressive .

The 6.7-inch main display retains the 120Hz refresh rate and Flex Mode from earlier versions. This main screen continues to deliver an outstanding experience for both multimedia consumption and multitasking, particularly due to its elongated aspect ratio.
An Excellent Camera Experience
I have been quite pleased with the camera performance of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 during my evaluation. Similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Flip 5, this latest model features dual rear cameras alongside a single selfie camera, capable of capturing impressive photos and videos, although it may still encounter some of the same limitations and issues as its forerunner.

The dual rear camera setup includes a newly upgraded 50 MP main sensor, an enhancement from the 12 MP sensor found in the Flip 5, while the ultra-wide camera appears to retain the 12 MP specification. The selfie camera continues to utilize a 10 MP sensor, positioned within a hole-punch cutout on the 6.7-inch primary display .

1. Over the past week of utilizing these cameras, I have observed that the Galaxy Z Flip 6 yields remarkably satisfying results that are both consistent and replicable. My primary concern with last year's model revolved around issues of sharpness and detail, particularly in low-light conditions and during zooming.

The new main sensor appears to be comparable to that of the Galaxy S24, which I find commendable. Samsung continues to produce vibrant and high-contrast images, yet does so in a manner that avoids excessive exaggeration as seen in previous iterations. The most significant improvement from the Flip 5 to the Flip 6 is the enhanced sharpness throughout the entire image, which now feels considerably more practical.

Although I would have preferred Samsung to incorporate a third telephoto lens in the Flip 6, as is standard with nearly all other devices in their range, the upgraded 50MP sensor significantly enhances the quality of digital zoom.

A notable addition in the Flip 6 is the capability to automatically adjust the frame when new subjects enter the shot. This feature is activated when the camera operates in Flex Mode, utilizing the cover display as a viewfinder; one can prop the phone to capture an image, and when an individual enters the frame, the device employs the ultra-wide lens to include them.

While I find this feature theoretically advantageous, I would personally prefer to utilize the main wide-angle lens, as it offers superior image quality.

Mighty Power and Battery
1. Regarding software and hardware performance, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 delivers an experience comparable to Samsung's other flagship devices released this year, which can be described as excellent. The device operates on Samsung’s One UI 6.0, built on Android 14. Similar to the other flagship models, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 benefits from an impressive update policy, with Samsung committing to seven years of security patches and software updates, making it a favorable option for long-term use.

In terms of hardware specifications, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 features the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor and is equipped with 12 GB of RAM, an increase from the 8 GB found in the Flip 5. This enhancement ensures a seamless and responsive software experience across both displays. Additionally, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers either 256 GB or 512 GB of internal storage, which is non-expandable, representing an improvement over the base and maximum storage options available in last year's model.

On Geekbench 6, the Flip 6 achieved scores of 1,219 in Single-Core and 5,980 in Multi-core tests, indicating that users can expect a smooth experience without concerns about performance issues while browsing the internet, enjoying media, or engaging in gaming activities.
The battery life of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 represents a significant enhancement compared to its predecessor. This model is equipped with a larger 4,000 mAh battery, an upgrade from the 3,700 mAh battery utilized in the Flip 5. The combination of this increased battery capacity with the more efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset contributes to a more integrated experience, making this foldable device feel more complete in comparison to traditional smartphones.

Battery performance was a notable limitation of the Flip 5, so it is commendable that Samsung has managed to boost the battery capacity without adding any additional weight or thickness.
AI Everything, Everywhere
This year, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 emphasizes the integration of Galaxy AI within its software. I will not delve into all the features of this software suite, as a more comprehensive analysis can be found in my review of the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Instead, I aim to discuss how these features enhance the Z Flip experience and their implications.

The focus of the Flip 6 is on utilizing the cover display effectively. As previously noted, the device now supports Flex Mode, allowing users to employ the Interpreter feature for real-time translations, which can be easily accessed by the individual with whom you are communicating. I appreciate the convenience of propping the device on a table in Flex Mode to facilitate a conversation.

While this approach is theoretically advantageous and fosters a sense of presence compared to constantly glancing down at the device, it does present some challenges regarding translation input. Specifically, when the device is positioned in Flex Mode, the microphones are oriented upwards rather than directed towards the person across from you. Although this may seem like a minor issue, I observed that even in a relatively quiet environment, the microphones struggled to accurately capture spoken words for translation, particularly when the language spoken was not English.

In Samsung Notes, users can now convert sketches into AI-generated artwork, akin to the features introduced in Apple’s iPadOS 18 with Apple Intelligence. While this functionality can enhance class notes or brainstorming sessions, it is important to note that the Flip 6 may not fully capitalize on this feature, particularly due to its lack of S-Pen support.
The primary attraction of the Galaxy Flip 6 this year lies in Samsung's Galaxy AI suite, which will also be available for last year's models. In this context, the Galaxy Flip 6 presents an appealing option for individuals seeking the latest features, particularly as these enhancements are derived from an older device. For current Flip 5 owners, the upgrade may seem minimal; however, for new users or those with previous models, the Flip 6 delivers a comprehensive smartphone experience, effectively bridging the divide between foldable devices and traditional smartphones.