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Samsung's Z Flip 5 finally has the one feature everyone's been asking for
This year's Samsung Unpacked event is full of new gadgets, but one of the highlighted launches is the Galaxy Z Flip 5. Last year's Z Flip 4 offered innovative camera modes, and its clamshell design sparked consumers' nostalgia for flip phones.
But the Z Flip 4 had its shortcomings, and the pressure was on Samsung to make the fifth iteration of the Z Flip better than ever. And with some design upgrades, the Z Flip 5 might be the best yet.
Also: How to preorder the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, Flip 5, Tab S9, Watch 6, and find the best deals
The Z Flip 5 has a larger external display than its predecessor, offering users a 3.4-inch Flex Window that allows for app and widget interactions without unfolding the phone. The Z Flip 5's main screen is a 6.7-inch dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Many experts and consumers complained that the Z Flip 4's hinge left a gap between the two screens when the phone was shut. According to Samsung, this problem is resolved, and the Z Flip 5 folds completely shut.
Like the Z Flip 4, the Z Flip 5 has an IPX8 rating, making it water-resistant. However, it's unclear how the Z Flip 5 can handle dust and solids ingress. But Samsung says there are rubberized edges along the inner display bezel, which should protect the phone when it's shut.
Also: Every product announced at Samsung Unpacked (and what wasn't unveiled)
There isn't any battery improvement to the Z Flip 5, but it holds a 3,700mAh battery. An improved Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor promises better performance, efficiency, and camera quality.
However, the Z Flip 5 has fast wireless charging, Wireless PowerShare, and Samsung says it can charge up to 50% in about 30 minutes when connected to a wired charger. Additionally, a capacitive fingerprint sensor located on the side can unlock the phone with your fingerprint.
There aren't any major upgrades to the Z Flip 5's camera, as it boasts a 10 MP front selfie camera and a 12 MP ultra-wide camera, like its predecessor. The base storage for the Z Flip 5 is upgraded from 128 GB to 256 GB, going up to 512 GB. Like the Z Flip 4, the Z Flip 5 offers 8GB of RAM.
Also: Samsung's new foldables will have one very important feature no one is talking about
The Z Flip 5 will be available in Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender. Gray, Blue, Green, and Yellow are available as a Samsung exclusive. The Z Flip 5 is available on Samsung's website and at reputable retailers for $999.