The Galaxy Z Fold 4 Might Get An Interesting Display Upgrade
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 4 might get an interesting display upgrade, making this flexible screen smartphone different from earlier models. The change described has to do with the physical dimensions of the screen rather than the type of display used. Samsung is known for innovative and impressive displays and the Galaxy Z Fold 4 will undoubtedly feature upgrades to the already incredible screen technology used in the previous generation.
The Galaxy Fold, Z Fold 2, and Z Fold 3 all shipped in the second half of the year and it's likely that the new model will come in August or September of 2022. As the fourth-generation of Samsung's most expensive smartphone and the flagship of the foldable lineup, it should be a powerful and versatile device, capable of transforming from a pocket-sized phone into a small tablet. While this isn't new, it's still a novel concept with very few competing products available.
The latest Galaxy Z Fold 4 rumor comes from a prolific and reliable source, Ice universe. In a recent Tweet, an updated aspect ratio was mentioned, bringing the unfolded shape of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 to nearly square. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 had a 5:4 aspect ratio, meaning a little taller than it is wide when opened. A follow-up Tweet demonstrated the relative sizes and shapes, placing a mock-up of a Galaxy Z Fold 4 beside a Z Fold 3. The new model appears very slightly wider and shorter. Ice universe noted that the accuracy of this information is not guaranteed.
The comments on Ice universe's rumors suggest that Samsung might get some dissent if the shape of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 does become more square. A common complaint had to do with media consumption and gaming. Since most movies and many games are formatted for a widescreen experience, a square format might crop the sides or require letterboxing with black bars at the top and bottom.
The advantage of making it closer to a square is that this provides more screen area when compared to a rectangular shape. This is why a 6.8-inch Galaxy S22 smartphone display can feel cramped when browsing the internet, while a 7-inch Galaxy tablet feels roomy. Diagonal screen measurements are misleading with regard to the display area. When folded, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 would be close to 2:1 or 18:9 to put it in the same terms often used for smartphones. This is close to the 18.5:9 aspect ratio of Samsung's Galaxy S9, which means Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 4 might be a bit easier to use when folded, and better for productivity when opened.
Source: Ice universe/Twitter, 2