Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7, set for announcement on July 9, faces significant scrutiny, particularly regarding its battery specifications. Reports suggest that the phone will feature a 4,400 mAh battery, similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, or possibly even smaller. While some may defend Samsung’s decision by citing the phone’s slimmer design, this rationale seems outdated. The industry has largely adopted silicon-carbon batteries, which offer denser energy storage in the same space, enabling devices like the Oppo Find N5 to include a much larger 5,600 mAh battery in a remarkably slim form.
Rivals such as Vivo have also successfully integrated larger batteries in their devices. The majority of Samsung’s competitors have embraced this technology, achieving impressive battery life and efficiency, thus raising questions about Samsung’s reluctance to make the switch. One possible explanation for Samsung’s hesitation might be the higher costs associated with silicon-carbon batteries. The company may be unwilling to bear these expenses or pass them on to consumers, leading to stagnation in battery innovation.
Additionally, despite once leading in technology, Samsung now finds itself behind rivals like Apple, who are inching closer to superior battery performance. The legacy of the Galaxy Note 7 disaster looms over Samsung, with memories of battery failures resulting in fires. While the company has since implemented rigorous safety checks, it is essential for Samsung to move forward and embrace new technology safely. Ultimately, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts compelling features and design elements, it risks falling short in battery capabilities, leaving room for competitors to outperform it in the foldable smartphone landscape.