GoKawiilHadlee Simons / Android Authority
Samsung has just peeled the curtain back on three new foldable phones at its Unpacked event today, and most eyes are on the Fold line. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 adopts a wide aspect ratio and a compact form factor, while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra receives significant hardware upgrades.
Where does that leave the newly announced Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8, though? After spending some time with this new clamshell foldable, I don’t think even Samsung knows. And this is even more worrying in light of recent rumors that the Flip line could be discontinued.
After spending some hands-on time with the Z Flip 8, I’m convinced Samsung has already killed it.
Galaxy Z Flip 8: Hot or not? 8 votes Hot 50 % Not 50 %
The cover screen software is better, but it’s still no Razr
Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
One of the most enduring complaints about Samsung’s Flip phone software over the years has been the disappointing cover screen experience. This is particularly apparent when compared to the Motorola Razr series. The good news is that Samsung is clearly bringing some improvements in this regard.
The company proudly touted new additions like a notification shade, quick settings panel, recents menu, and an app drawer. The bad news? I quickly found out that you still need to install Good Lock and MultiStar to use any app on the cover screen in the first place (see the image above). By contrast, Motorola lets you use any installed app by adding it to the cover screen’s app drawer. It’s extremely frustrating that Samsung still forces you to download an app to achieve a similar level of app support.
Otherwise, Samsung says you can expect support for up to 16 apps on the cover display. These apps include YouTube, Samsung Browser, the clock app, Gallery, and more. It’s all well and good that the company is taking a “curated” approach to cover screen apps, especially since there are apps that don’t run well on the Razr’s external display, but 16 is an absolutely paltry figure.
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