Galaxy Z Fold 8 Missing Flex Mode

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8: A Missed Opportunity

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is one of the most exciting devices from the South Korean tech giant, boasting a wider internal screen perfect for entertainment. However, it lacks a fan-favourite feature: Flex Mode. This limitation puts it at a disadvantage compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 adopts a shorter, squatter design than the book-style Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, enabling a wider internal screen. However, its hinge only allows for two positions: open or closed. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra lets you open the device at almost any angle between fully open and fully closed, similar to a laptop like the Apple MacBook Air M2.

What is Flex Mode?

Flex Mode is a signature feature of Samsung’s foldable devices, including the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and previous models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. It allows for hands-free video calling, instant camera previews, and easy group photos. Additionally, it provides a dedicated control panel for apps like YouTube and Netflix, as well as a separate gamepad for some mobile games on the Google Play Store.

The omission of Flex Mode from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is a notable downgrade compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and every single Galaxy Z Fold since the original in 2019. This, combined with the missing telephoto lens, contributes to its lower price tag of £200 less than the Ultra model.

A Potential Dealbreaker?

Whether the loss of Flex Mode is a dealbreaker depends on how you use your phone. If you’re content with a phone or tablet with no in-between, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 will suit you just fine. However, if you love the extra versatility of a screen that can be adjusted to almost any angle and be used hands-free, you’ll need to step up to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

Despite the lack of Flex Mode, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 still offers an excellent user experience, with its wider internal screen and improved hinge design. Nonetheless, the omission of this key feature may be a disappointment for some users, especially those who have grown accustomed to the flexibility of previous Galaxy Z Fold models.