Hands-on review: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 both fun and reliable

Review: Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a device that successfully blends the nostalgia of flip phones with the cutting-edge technology of today.

It’s not just about folding screens and compact design – it’s about bringing a sense of fun to the smartphone experience while maintaining the reliability that users expect from a flagship device.

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a light but meaningful upgrade over its predecessor.

The new model comes with brighter inner and outer screens, a slightly larger battery, an upgraded main camera, and the latest Qualcomm chipset under the hood.

While these enhancements might sound like typical upgrades for a high-end smartphone in 2024, they’re significant when it comes to a foldable device like this one.

The highlight of the Z Flip 6 is its 3.4-inch OLED cover screen, which carries over from last year’s model. This screen offers a vibrant and useful space for quick interactions, whether it’s checking notifications, controlling media, or using widgets.

The outer screen is customizable, allowing you to create a layout that suits your needs, and it now supports a proper always-on display. This means you can keep an eye on important information at a glance, without needing to fully open your phone.

Samsung has also made strides in making the cover screen more functional.

You can now add smaller widgets to a single panel, creating a streamlined experience that’s both efficient and enjoyable. Whether it’s adding a timer next to your weather widget or keeping your calendar visible, the flexibility offered by the Z Flip 6’s cover screen makes daily tasks a breeze.

One of the most pleasant surprises with the Z Flip 6 is how reliable it feels in everyday use. Samsung’s attention to detail shines through, particularly in the seamless performance of the phone’s widgets and apps. Everything from controlling your music to managing notifications is smooth and intuitive.

There’s a sense of polish and reliability that makes the Z Flip 6 a pleasure to use, whether you’re flipping it open for a full-screen experience or just glancing at the cover screen. Even just looking at it is enough to give it that wow factor.

Another area where the Z Flip 6 impresses is its design. The phone is available in bold, eye-catching colours that add a touch of personality to your tech.

The build quality is top-notch, with an overwhelmingly sturdy hinge that feels secure, and a design that strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern aesthetics. The inner screen is bright and vivid, offering an excellent viewing experience, and while the crease is still present, it’s easy to overlook in day-to-day use.

Battery life, often a concern with foldable phones, has also seen improvement. The Z Flip 6 is capable of lasting through a full day of heavy use, which is no small feat for a device with two screens. By the end of the day, you might be reaching for your charger, but it’s reassuring to know that the Z Flip 6 can keep up with your busy schedule.

Typing on the Z Flip 6’s small cover screen might take a bit of getting used to, but it’s a handy feature for quick responses when you don’t want to fully open the phone. Samsung has also integrated AI to suggest responses based on previous messages, which can be a useful tool for those moments when you’re in a hurry. While the AI suggestions aren’t always spot-on, they’re often good enough to save you time.

In terms of overall performance, the Z Flip 6 doesn’t disappoint. It’s equipped with the latest hardware, ensuring that everything from gaming to multitasking is smooth and responsive.

The connectivity options are robust, and the phone’s processing power is more than adequate for any task you throw at it.

The Z Flip 6 is a delightful mix of fun and functionality.

It’s a reliable, well-designed foldable phone that doesn’t just look good but works brilliantly as well. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of the flip design or the practical benefits of its modern features, the Z Flip 6 is a device that delivers on all fronts.

If you’re in the market for a foldable phone that offers both reliability and a touch of fun, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is a fantastic choice.