As Chinese smartphone makers keep trying to make their foldable phones thinner and lighter, Samsung has to keep up. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip phones are already slimmer than most other foldable phones on the market. However, the same can’t be said for their Galaxy Z Fold series.
Samsung is expected to respond to this challenge later this year with a new model, possibly called the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim. Although the name isn’t confirmed, leaks and rumors suggest that this phone will have a slimmer and lighter design. A new report from Korean media hints that titanium could be a key material in achieving this.
Titanium Backplate for a Stronger and Lighter Foldable Phone
Samsung is reportedly considering using titanium for the backplate of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim. The backplate is an important part of foldable phones as it supports the foldable screen and hinge. In the current Galaxy Z Fold models, Samsung uses carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for this part.
For the new Z Fold 6 Slim, Samsung might switch to a titanium backplate. Titanium is known for being both strong and lightweight, which would make the phone more durable and easier to carry. While CFRP is still an option, it seems likely that Samsung will go with titanium in the end.
No S Pen Support Due to Titanium Backplate
Back in May, it was revealed that the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim might not support the S Pen. The use of a titanium backplate could be the reason for this. Titanium can interfere with the digitizer that allows the stylus to work properly. This is probably why Samsung decided not to use titanium in the previous Galaxy Z Fold models. The Galaxy S24 Ultra has a titanium frame, but because the frame doesn’t sit behind the display, it doesn’t cause the same issue.
Release Date and Availability
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim is expected to be announced between October and December of this year. However, it seems that this model might only be available in Korea and China. A global release doesn’t appear likely at the moment, and one reason could be the higher price of the phone, which is expected to be over $2,000.
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