We thought we had left flip phones back in the ’90s along with frosted tips and baggy pants, but in an unexpected twist no one saw coming, it seems the tech we once deemed outdated is making a comeback.
The concept of the flip phone resurgence has been thrown around here and there over the last few years, but no product has really landed to make us consider side-stepping smartphone tech. Now, though, it seems flip phone technology has caught up.
Sure, our large touch screens are cool, but there’s something profoundly satisfying about being able to flip your phone open and shut; tucking its functions away when they’re not needed or hanging up on a friend after your final word.
While the resurrection of this particular phone shape is exciting in itself, what makes it even better is how sleek the new versions of the old favourite will be. Most of all, we’re sitting in anticipation waiting for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip to make its way, slowly but surely, over to Australia.
Keep reading for more details about some of the new phone’s coolest features, including design, camera quality and our best guess as to how much it might cost in Australia.
Shape
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is weirdly reminiscent of those old Gameboy Advance SP’s — but a whole lot sleeker. The compact square shape is equally aesthetic and functional, and we have a feeling it will fit into jean pockets a whole lot better than the clunky touch-screens we’ve become accustomed to.
Size
When unfolded, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is slightly bigger than an iPhone 11, coming in at 6.7 inches as opposed to 6.1. Because of the slightly larger size (and its ability to be halved), the phone can easily be used as a sort of mini laptop, perfect for watching videos or video calling hands-free.
Colours
Though the colour selection is limited, there’s still something to please everyone. Mirrored black for those who like a sleek look, mirrored gold for those who wish to match their bling, and a mirrored purple for people who want a splash of colour. Each of these works well with the small front display, which shows important info like the time or incoming calls.
Cameras
With Instagram our favourite app, having a high-quality phone camera is more important than ever. Thankfully, this phone lives up to our expectations. According to GQ, “Z Flip will feature three cameras: a dual camera setup on the outside of the phone consisting of two 12 megapixel cameras on the back, a regular wide angle and an ultra-wide angle, and on the inside is a 10 megapixel selfie camera that’s cut out in the top of the display.” If that means nothing to you, it basically boils down to a comparable to what you’d find on an iPhone 11.
Price
Though it’s hard to say exactly how much the phone will cost here, “it does have an RRP of $US 1,380 in the U.S.” GQ reports. When converted into Australian dollars, this comes in at about $2,051, though it will likely be more once import and tax is taken into account.