We absolutely live in the golden era of smartphone, smart watch and wireless earbuds technology, with more choice across every price point than ever before, and we even live in an era of third-gen folding screen technology that is at its most advanced yet.
With the demise of Huawei in the western world due to ongoing bans against Huawei using Google Play, Samsung continues being the most ultra premium of Android makers, with the company able to make its own processors, memory, storage, screens and more, alongside making Android and Windows tablets, smartwatches and wireless earbuds, along a wide range of connected appliances.
Samsung's biggest competitor in the most integrated of ecosystems is Apple, and each year. Samsung tries hard to leapfrog Apple, and it is a testament to Apple's own extreme dedication to advancing and simplifying technology that Samsung introduces such advanced technologies yet still finds itself in such a fierce battle, but as always, consumers are the winners.
Samsung launched its S21 range earlier this year, but its most innovative products are its foldable range, which is now newly released in its third generation - the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G.
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Samsung proudly boasts both are "built with the craftsmanship and flagship innovations Samsung users have come to love and expect," with Samsung keen to note that it has listened to its customers and have delivered accordingly, with the Z Fold3 5G even offering an under-screen camera, meaning no punch hole camera at all for an uninterrupted display.
Samsung says the Fold3 5G is for those who need "the ultimate device for productivity and immersive entertainment," and is "a true multitasking powerhouse with next level performance, an undisrupted 7.6-inch Infinity Flex Display, and the first ever S Pen support on a foldable device."
The there's the Flip3 5G, which is "sleek, compact, and pocketable", featuring enhanced cameras and a larger Cover Screen built for quick use on the go.
Dr. TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics said: "With Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3, Samsung is once again redefining the possibilities with foldable smartphones that empower users with the flexibility and versatility needed for today’s fast-paced world.
"As a pioneer and industry leader in the foldable category, we’re proud to build on our legacy of innovation with the Z Fold3 and Z Flip3. These devices equip consumers with technologies that unlock new ways to maximise and enjoy every moment with an ecosystem built on openness and innovation.”
Here is Samsung's August 2021 Unpacked event replay, which is definitely worth watching to get all the details on the two new folds, the new smart watches, the new buds and more:
- Full details on Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold3 5G can be seen here.
- Full details on the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G can be seen here.
- Full details on the Galaxy Watch4 are here, with Watch4 Classic details here.
- You can also see full details of the Galaxy Buds2 here.
Here's another of Samsung's promo videos:
Here's what else Samsung had to say about the new Fold3 and Flip3 models:
Craftsmanship Built to Last
"Samsung users expect foldable devices that are built to last. That’s why this generation of Galaxy Z devices is built with unrival'ed craftsmanship. For the first time ever on a foldable smartphone, Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 are equipped with IPX84 water resistance.
"Both devices are also built with our new Armour Aluminium on the frame and hinge cover—the strongest aluminium used on a Galaxy smartphone—along with tough Corning Gorilla Glass Victus to help protect against scratches and accidental drops. In addition, both devices include a new protective film made of stretchable PET and optimised display panel layers resulting in a Main Screen that’s 80% more durable than previous devices.
"Samsung continues its legacy of foldable leadership with rigorous processes to create devices that remain reliable after years of use. The revolutionary Hideaway Hinge, first introduced on Galaxy Z Flip, enables the devices to stay in place at any angle for innovative user experiences with Flex mode.
"And thanks to enhanced Sweeper technology, the bristles inside the Hinge are now shorter, helping to repel dust and other particles and help maintain the devices’ durability and seamless user experiences. Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 were also put through a strenuous folding test, verified by Bureau Veritas, to withstand folding 200,000 times. Plus, they’re equipped with the latest powerful 5nm AP and 5G band compatibility for the best experience inside and out."
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G: Ultimate Productivity and Entertainment
"Unfold Galaxy Z Fold3 to immerse yourself in theatre-like viewing experiences and stay fully engaged in your favourite content on the uninterrupted 7.6-inch Infinity Flex Display—thanks to our new Under display camera technology. With minimum pixels applied on top of the camera hole, Galaxy Z Fold3 features an increased viewable area so users get an unbroken canvas for their favourite apps.
"With the new Eco2 display technology applied to the screen, it’s 29% brighter while consuming less energy. Experience even smoother scrolling and quick device interaction with the Super Smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate now on both the Main and Cover Screens.
"For the first time ever on the Galaxy Z series, Samsung is bringing its beloved Note series technology to Galaxy Z Fold3—the S Pen functionality. Users can take advantage of fully optimised S Pen features on their foldable screen, which is a perfect fit for on-the-go multitaskers.
"On Galaxy Z Fold3’s massive Main Screen, it’s easier than ever for users to jot down notes during a video call or check off a to-do list while reading emails, and Galaxy Z Fold3 users can also power their creativity and productivity with our fan-favourite S Pen.
S Pen for Galaxy Z Fold3 comes in two options: S Pen Fold Edition and S Pen Pro. Both feature a specially engineered retractable Pro tip with force limit technology to protect Galaxy Z Fold3’s Main Screen for peace of mind while using the S Pen. This is Samsung’s best S Pen experience yet, with even lower latency for true-to-life composition—ensuring that notetaking and sending messages is seamless and intuitive.
"Productivity seekers will also enjoy Galaxy Z Fold3’s enhanced Flex mode features, which let you do more at once, such as joining a video call on the device’s top screen while checking meeting notes on the bottom. With Galaxy Z Fold3’s updated Multi-Active Window, it’s even easier to make dinner plans over text while checking your calendar, all on the device’s large screen.
"And now on Galaxy Z Fold3, users can create a shortcut and reopen apps in the same way later thanks to enhanced App Pair. Plus, they can use Galaxy Z Fold3’s new Taskbar to quickly switch between apps without returning to the Home screen.
"Galaxy Z Fold3 is built with a sleeker, thinner, and lighter design for even better portability than Galaxy Z Fold2. It comes with a choice of three timeless colours: Phantom Black, Phantom Green, and Phantom Silver."
Galaxy Z Flip3 5G: The Ideal Balance of Style, Function, and Nonstop Fun
"Galaxy Z Flip3 empowers users to express themselves with bold colour options, a sleek design, and premium features. With the choice of four trendy colours—Cream, Green, Lavender, and Phantom Black—plus new stylish ring grips and strap cases that make it even easier to hold and fold the phone, Galaxy Z Flip3 is a device for true self-expression. For those in search of even more colour options to fit their style, Samsung.com carries exclusive colours, such as Grey, Pink, and White.
"The redesigned Cover Screen is now four times larger and makes it easier to view notifications and messages without having to open Galaxy Z Flip3. Users can keep up with their schedule, check the weather, and monitor their daily step count with new Cover Screen widgets or coordinate the Cover Screen wallpaper with their new Galaxy Watch4 or Galaxy Watch4 Classic for a matching look. And with Samsung Pay built directly into the Cover Screen, it’s never been easier to check out on-the-go at the local coffee shop.
"Galaxy Z Flip3 is also crafted to give users the best capability for capturing and sharing memories. Packed with some of our latest camera features, users can take even more stunning selfies hands- free with Flex mode. Or they can keep the device folded and capture a quick photo—and now, even video—right from the Cover Screen using enhanced Quick Shot by double-clicking Galaxy Z Flip3’s power key. Plus, scrolling and sharing are super smooth, thanks to Galaxy Z Flip3’s new 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
"Galaxy Z Flip3 is great for relaxing and watching a YouTube vlog or a TV show hands-free. Thanks to Galaxy Z Flip3’s new, upgraded Stereo Speakers with Dolby Atmos, you get immersive sound with incredible clarity, depth and spatial effects, no matter what you’re watching or listening to. And the new Flex Mode Panel feature makes apps look better and easier to use. When the device is partially folded, Flex Mode Panel gives you new ways to interact with Galaxy Z Flip3, offering a more convenient viewing experience by moving the video to the top half of the screen and the show’s controls—like brightness and volume—to the bottom half."
Optimised Foldable Experiences Open Up New Possibilities
"With the Galaxy Z series, users will get access to more apps that take full advantage of the foldable screen. Samsung is expanding partnerships with leading companies like Google, Microsoft, and more, so users can enjoy more of their go-to apps tailored to their unique needs.
"Collaborate effectively with Microsoft Teams app: Enjoy optimised meeting experience adapting based on the Flex mode of your Galaxy Z series and the power of Office and Teams coming together. For the best productivity at work, Microsoft Outlook’s dual-pane mode for Samsung foldables enables users to read a full email while previewing others on the side, just like a desktop experience. To bring users even more choices, Samsung’s new Labs feature offers users the ability to optimise even more apps to the foldable screen when they need it.
"Furthermore, Samsung continues to rethink how app developers can create amazing user experiences from anywhere. To provide them with more options while ensuring high-quality optimisation, Samsung supports Remote Test Lab (RTL), giving app developers the ability to directly install and test their applications in real-time, from wherever they are."
Galaxy Buds2: Buds for everyone with incredible sound and comfortable fit
"Joining the Galaxy Z Series are Galaxy Buds2 – designed for a comfortable fit made to be worn all day and provide amazing sound quality so you can immerse yourself in the moment, wherever you are. As one of the latest additions to the Galaxy Buds lineup, Galaxy Buds2 join the Galaxy Buds Live and Galaxy Buds Pro, providing more choices to consumers to fit their needs.
"As a part of the Galaxy ecosystem, Galaxy Buds2 make the perfect companion to your Galaxy smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.
"Whether you use your Galaxy Buds2 to listen to music or dial into a conference call, you’ve got all the features you need to immerse in yourself in your own world. The dynamic two-way speakers deliver crisp, clear high notes and a deep bass, while Active Noise Cancellation helps block out unwanted noise. If you need to hear your surroundings, simply tune back in with three adjustable ambient sound levels2. And now your voice will be clearer on calls, thanks to a new, machine learning-based solution that is designed to filter out a variety of distracting background noises.
"Galaxy Buds2 are Samsung’s smallest and lightest earbuds yet boasting an iconic curved shape. For a more perfect fit, we’ve developed the ‘Earbud fit test’ in Galaxy Wearable app. Choose from four contemporary colours — graphite, white, olive and lavender — to show off your personal style, and complete the package with third-party accessory cases.
Pricing and Availability
"Samsung is committed to giving more consumers access to the unique foldable experience. That’s why we’re offering both Galaxy Z devices at the best prices yet. We’re offering Galaxy Z Fold3 from AUD$2,499, and Galaxy Z Flip3 from AUD$1,499. Galaxy Buds2 will retail for AUD$219, allowing more consumers to experience an immersive sound, with a comfortable all-day design, seamless connectivity and powerful features.
"The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 will be available for pre-order beginning August 12, and they will launch on sale in Australia on September 10. Customers who pre- order a Galaxy Z Fold3 or Galaxy Z Flip3 between August 12 and September 9, 2021 are eligible to receive a bonus offer up to the value of $299, which can be redeemed at the Samsung eStore for a number of products. Samsung is also providing customers who pre-order a new Galaxy Z Series device with discounted screen replacement by Samsung Care for $99 within the first year of purchase.
"Additionally, following two successful launches, Thom Browne and Samsung have partnered again, weaving impeccable design with pioneering technology for a collection that represents creativity and innovation in equal measure.
"Thom Browne’s signature colours border the new matte white finish, paired in perfect symmetry with the streamlined glass body. Shiny silver hinges add to the unique design approach, enhancing reflections of light, while leather accessories, with their finely stitched details, signify that you have entered the world of Thom Browne. The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 Thom Browne Edition will be available for pre-order beginning August 12, 2021 in select markets, including Australia from Samsung.com, with limited numbers."
More details at Samsung!