Samsung is poised to make a significant leap in the foldable smartphone market, with mass production of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 slated to begin in May 2025. These devices, expected to bring advancements in design, performance, and processor technology, are anticipated to launch in July or August during the Galaxy Unpacked event. Amid fierce competition, the South Korean tech giant is banking on a dual-chip strategy, incorporating Snapdragon and Exynos processors, to solidify its dominance in foldable devices. The large-scale production underscores Samsung’s confidence in meeting global demand, despite a market where foldable smartphone sales have fallen short of expectations.
The new models arrive at a pivotal moment for the foldable smartphone industry. Despite early enthusiasm, the segment has not met lofty sales projections, prompting Samsung to recalibrate its targets for the Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7. Reports suggest the company plans to produce approximately 240,000 units of the Z Flip 7, 170,000 units of the Z Flip FE (a more affordable variant), and 160,000 units of the Z Fold 7. These figures reflect a cautious approach, factoring in global economic uncertainties and the withdrawal of some competitors from the foldable market.
Moreover, Samsung is prioritizing user experience enhancements through innovations in displays and processors. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, for instance, is expected to feature a less noticeable crease on its foldable screen, a breakthrough that could appeal to consumers hesitant about adopting this technology. Meanwhile, the Z Flip 7 may offer a larger external display and an improved battery, reinforcing its status as one of the most popular foldable devices on the market.
Processor specifications unveiled
The choice of processors is a key highlight for the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7. The Z Fold 7 will be powered exclusively by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, a 3-nanometer chipset renowned for its energy efficiency and robust performance. Already featured in the Galaxy S25 series, this processor ensures the device can handle demanding tasks such as multitasking and advanced artificial intelligence, making it ideal for productivity-focused users.
In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 presents a more nuanced approach. Recent testing revealed units equipped with the Exynos 2500, a 3-nanometer chipset developed by Samsung Foundry. This processor boasts a 10-core CPU, with one prime core at 3.3 GHz, two cores at 2.75 GHz, five at 2.36 GHz, and two at 1.8 GHz, paired with an Xclipse 950 GPU based on AMD’s RDNA 3.5 architecture. However, production challenges with the Exynos 2500, including yields below 50%, have sparked speculation that the Z Flip 7 might adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite in select regions.
- Snapdragon 8 Elite: Delivers superior performance and energy efficiency, optimized for multitasking and AI.
- Exynos 2500: Offers competitive performance but faces scalability issues in production.
- Regional strategy: Samsung may use Exynos chips in markets like Europe and Asia, with Snapdragon reserved for the U.S. and China.
Design and display innovations
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is set to deliver notable design improvements, particularly in minimizing the visible crease on its foldable display. This persistent issue in foldable devices has been a barrier to mainstream adoption. Samsung has already shown progress with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition, and the Z Fold 7 is expected to set a new standard, offering a smoother, near-traditional screen experience.
The Z Flip 7, meanwhile, is likely to feature an upgraded external display, potentially expanding from 3.4 to 4 inches, making it easier to interact with notifications and widgets without unfolding the device. The internal screen may also grow from 6.7 to 6.85 inches, enhancing the viewing experience. Additionally, rumors suggest the inclusion of a third rear camera, possibly a telephoto lens, marking a significant upgrade for the Z Flip line, which has traditionally offered only wide and ultra-wide lenses.
Samsung is also exploring PHOLED (Phosphorescent OLED) technology for the Z Flip 7, which promises greater luminous efficiency and lower power consumption compared to current AMOLED displays. These advancements underscore Samsung’s commitment to enhancing the durability and functionality of its foldable devices, meeting the demands of an increasingly discerning audience.
Production and launch timeline
The mass production of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 aligns with Samsung’s typical schedule for foldable devices. The manufacturing of OLED panels has already begun, with full device assembly expected to start in May 2025, ensuring readiness for a third-quarter launch.
- April 2025: Samsung Display begins production of OLED panels.
- May 2025: Mass production commences in factories in Gumi, South Korea, and Vietnam.
- July/August 2025: Official launch at Galaxy Unpacked.
- Fourth quarter 2025: Potential release of the Galaxy Z Flip FE and a tri-fold device.
This timeline reflects Samsung’s strategy to maintain a consistent annual cycle for its foldables, even amid logistical and market challenges. The introduction of a budget-friendly Z Flip FE highlights the company’s efforts to make foldable technology accessible to a broader audience.
Challenges in the foldable market
The foldable smartphone market faces a complex landscape. Despite initial growth, global sales have not met expectations, with consumers citing concerns over durability, high costs, and visible creases. Samsung, which commands roughly 60% of this segment, has adjusted its 2025 sales forecasts to reflect a more realistic outlook.
While competitors like Huawei and Oppo continue to invest in foldables, some smaller brands are exiting the market due to low profitability. Samsung, however, remains committed to innovation, with plans to introduce a tri-fold device by late 2025. This model, featuring two hinges and three screens, could compete directly with Huawei’s Mate X, offering new use cases for foldable technology.
Samsung also faces pressure to balance cost and quality. The Z Flip FE, powered by the Exynos 2400e, exemplifies this approach, delivering solid performance at a more affordable price. By targeting a wider audience, Samsung aims to boost sales and maintain its market leadership.
Advancements in chip technology
Samsung Foundry is racing to regain its edge in the semiconductor market. After overcoming production hurdles with the Exynos 2500, the company has stabilized its 3-nanometer process, paving the way for its use in the Z Flip 7. Additionally, Samsung is developing the Exynos 2600, a 2-nanometer chip set to debut in the Galaxy S26 series in 2026.
This progress is critical for reducing reliance on suppliers like Qualcomm and competing with TSMC, which currently dominates 3-nanometer chip production. Apple, for instance, plans to stick with 3-nanometer chips for the iPhone 17 but is exploring 2-nanometer chips for the iPhone 18, potentially increasing production costs.
Samsung’s Exynos chips aim to balance performance and energy efficiency. While the Exynos 2500 faced criticism for yield issues, recent tests suggest it can rival the Snapdragon 8 Elite in everyday tasks and AI processing, making it a viable option for the Z Flip 7.
Expected specifications
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 are poised to deliver premium specifications. The Z Fold 7 will feature 12 GB of RAM, storage options of 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB, and a 4,400 mAh battery with 25W fast charging. S Pen compatibility will remain, with rumors of a redesigned stylus for improved usability.
The Z Flip 7 will boast a 4,174 mAh battery, up from 4,000 mAh in its predecessor, while retaining 25W charging. It will include 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB or 512 GB of storage, and a rear camera setup with a 50 MP main sensor and a 12 MP ultra-wide lens. The potential addition of a telephoto lens would address a long-standing user request.
- Galaxy Z Fold 7: Snapdragon 8 Elite, 7.6-inch display, reduced crease, S Pen support.
- Galaxy Z Flip 7: Exynos 2500 or Snapdragon 8 Elite, 6.85-inch internal display, 4-inch external display.
- Z Flip FE: Exynos 2400e, simplified specs, budget-friendly price.
Competition and future trends
Samsung faces growing competition from brands like Huawei, which is gaining traction with models like the Mate X, and Oppo, which continues to innovate in foldables. However, the exit of smaller players strengthens Samsung’s position, particularly in Western markets, where it dominates foldable sales.
The Z Flip FE, expected to retail around $749, responds to the need for more affordable foldables. This model could attract first-time buyers and compete with devices like Motorola’s Moto Razr Plus. Samsung’s long-term vision includes pioneering formats like the tri-fold device, which could redefine foldable smartphones, and integrating advanced AI features leveraging its powerful chipsets.
Global market impact
The launch of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 will have far-reaching implications for the global smartphone market. With production starting in May, Samsung is well-positioned to meet demand in key regions like the U.S., Europe, and Asia. The regional chipset strategy, using Exynos in some markets and Snapdragon in others, optimizes costs and caters to local preferences.
The reduced crease on the Z Fold 7 and enhanced displays on the Z Flip 7 address consumer concerns about durability and aesthetics. The Z Flip FE’s affordability could broaden the appeal of foldables, driving adoption among new users and boosting sales in a still-evolving market.
Samsung is also prioritizing sustainability, with efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of production. Technologies like PHOLED and future 2-nanometer chips underscore this commitment, positioning Samsung as a leader in both innovation and corporate responsibility.