From Nostalgia To The Future: The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip?5

Flip phones are cool again and none more so than Samsung’s Z Flip 5. This is one of the latest iterations of Samsung’s market-leading foldables that also includes the Z Fold 5 which was launched globally about two months ago. In Kenya, Samsung’s foldables have become a status symbol of sorts given how expensive these devices are but also how well they are built. The truth is that Samsung has created a category that every major global manufacturer is playing catchup to emulate as they become de rigueur!

An Experience Worth Flipping Out About.?

I got my review unit of the Z Flip 5 around two weeks ago. What immediately struck me is how the design language has been seamlessly carried over from the Z Fold 5 to the Z Flip 5 which clearly shows that they belong to the same premium pedigree of the best foldables in the world at the minute.?

This Z Flip 5 I used which came in its delightfully masculine graphite finish seamlessly became an extension of my professional persona! Just like the Z Fold 5, I can’t tell you how many times this head-turning foldable got conversations starting and quite clearly elevated my social status signaled by what looked like the future of smartphones of the flip variety.?

Flipping Into the Future.

The Z Flip 5 challenges the status quo as we know it when it comes to the flip form factor. Its glass and metal finish feels premium as do all high-end Samsung smartphones. There is no doubt that this is the best-looking and feeling flip phone in the world today!

The Z Flip 5 is a bridge between tradition and innovation. Its compact form belies its spacious display, with the Flex Hinge ensuring fluid yet robust functionality, an engineering marvel that needs to be seen and experienced to be fully appreciated.?

The device’s practicality is further highlighted by its IPX8 water resistance, a crucial feature for sometimes unpredictable weather in Kenya or the unfortunate moment it could fall into water. It’s not just about surviving the elements but also maintaining the elegance and functionality under any circumstance that Samsung has impressively achieved.?

Performance & Productivity.

The Z Flip 5 is a small powerhouse camouflaged in elegance. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 8GB of RAM, it dismantles previous limitations on multitasking, especially for professionals handling demanding applications. Its storage variants, 256GB and 512GB, eliminate the constant battle for space, providing ample room for essential files and creative assets.

The device acknowledges the multifaceted roles of modern professionals. It eliminates digital sluggishness, ensuring that whether you’re a content creator, analyst, or consultant, the tool in your hand is as agile as your thought process. This efficiency isn’t just about what’s under the hood, but also how smoothly it integrates into your life, making the transition between roles almost seamless.

Screen(s) As Vivid As They Are Useful.?

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a feast for the eyes. Building on its predecessors’ foundation, it introduces a more robust hinge design, ensuring the device lays flat, reducing debris accumulation that could damage the screen. This clamshell device morphs into a compact form, a feature many Kenyans will find convenient for our on-the-go lifestyle, easily tucking away into smaller pockets or bags.

One significant advancement is the 3.4-inch external cover screen offering more interaction without flipping open the phone. Checking messages on apps like WhatsApp or watching a quick YouTube video as you navigate the world becomes more manageable. However, for a more immersive experience, you unfold into a 6.7-inch display, albeit with a narrower feel, reminiscent of a 6.1-inch traditional screen.

A Great Camera System, That Could Have Been Better.?

The dual 12MP rear cameras and a 10MP front camera are perfect not just for selfies but for capturing professional-grade photos and videos. However, in some ways, this seems inadequate without a dedicated zoom lens or higher resolutions for a 2023 flagship mobile device.?

Despite this, the Z Flip 5 presents a unique advantage for content creators. Its foldable design acts as a built-in tripod, perfect for hands-free video capturing?—?ideal for vloggers documenting their travels or professionals who need a smartphone that can serve their needs in unconventional ways.?

The camera system isn’t a standalone feature; it’s part of the Z Flip 5’s creative capabilities as it opens the door to experimentation such as using different angles made possible by its foldable nature or through the various in-built editing tools. The Z Flip 5 can indeed be a content creator’s BFF!

Staying Connected, Faster & Better.

The Z Flip 5 can be a gateway to the world, faster and better thanks to its 5G and WiFi capabilities, ensuring that you’re always connected. This connectivity isn’t just about speed, but also stability, ensuring that whether you’re uploading large files, streaming content, or conducting transactions, your online interactions are secure and reliable.

Storage That Works For You.

With storage options of 256GB or 512GB, the Z Flip 5 ensures you have space to keep what matters. This capacity eliminates the need to constantly transfer files, allowing you to focus on creation and innovation. Whether it’s large video files, extensive photo libraries, or comprehensive documents, the device accommodates them with ease.

Battery Life and Charging.

The Z Flip 5 is equipped with a 3,300mAh dual battery, promising extensive usage that adapts to your digital lifestyle. While the battery supports the rigors of heavy use, the fast-charging capabilities ensure you’re never out of touch for long.

One thing I did notice is the need to recharge at least once during the day with heavy usage so this is something worth considering as a serious factor for long-term use. That being said, with fast charging you can still get the benefit of knowing that charging itself will not take long, especially for busy people who are always on the move.?

Warranty and Samsung Care+

Investing in a Z Flip 5 is secured by a comprehensive warranty and the Samsung Care+ package in Kenya. Kenyan outlets and Samsung’s regional offices provide a standard 24-month warranty, covering manufacturing defects, giving peace of mind to those worried about the folding mechanism’s longevity.?

This plan isn’t just about addressing potential technical issues; it’s about providing peace of mind. You’re assured that your investment is protected, and any disruption due to device-related issues will be minimal.

Price and Availability in Kenya.

Priced at KES 193,000, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is more than a purchase; it’s an investment in your professional and creative expression. Its availability across various stores in Kenya makes acquiring one a hassle-free process.

The collaboration with ABSA Bank in Kenya for financing options exemplifies the device’s accessibility. It’s not just a gadget for the affluent but a companion for every professional or creative striving for excellence. These financing plans ensure that the Z Flip 5 can be integrated into different budget frameworks.

To Flip or Not to Flip?

The Z Flip 5 stands as a testament to innovation, a device that caters to a niche market looking for a blend of novelty and function. It encapsulates what the future of smartphones could be but also serves as a reminder of the compromises currently needed for foldable technology.

For Kenyans, the decision hinges on balancing these factors with the cost?—?evaluating the practicality of its compact form, the ease of capturing the essence of our vibrant culture hands-free, against the concessions in battery life and camera performance.

Whether you’re an early-tech adopter, a content creator, or someone who appreciates compact elegance, the Z Flip 5 is a conversation starter and a peek into the future. The question is, are you ready for what the future holds in your pocket?