Revisting the Galaxy Fold

Samsung released a revised version of the Galaxy Fold folding smartphone on Wednesday September 18, designed to rectify some of the major issues discovered during its disastrous reviewer only release during April of this year.

Samsung had previously sent sample units to a select few media outlets and influencers to review the phone before launch. It should be noted that the, pre-order stock of the phone, despite it's almost $2,000 price tag, was sold out within 24 hours. However, as soon as reviewers began to use their samples, some glaring issues were discovered. 

The folding screen had a plastic screen cover which was vital to the screen's functionality. Many reviewers, unaware of this, removed or tried to remove the cover just as they would move it from any other non folding phone. This caused immediate problems, with the phones that had their cover entirely removed, completely dying within 24 hours. Those who didn't remove that film though, faced different issues. In some cases, the "cover" began to peel off by itself through regular use while in other cases, the hinge that folded the screen, turned out to be too fragile and ended up damaging the screen which was caused due to excessive flexing while opening the phone.

Samsung responded to these issues by releasing the warning about the cover and replacing the damaged phone. However on April 23rd, they officially postponed the launch, recalled all of the sample Galaxy Folds with the intention to thoroughly inspect the review units in person. After nearly four months of hiatus, they have released a new version, which feature some changes.   

In the new version, the edges of the plastic cover is placed under the bezels of the phone, making it impossible to remove without complete disassembly. The hinge has been modified, it is now bulkier and now has "bumpers" on top of the screen to prevent over flexing. Samsung claims some internal components of the phone has also been reinforced to prevent damage from constant use.

Prominent reviewers like MKBHD, Unbox Therapy and JerryRigsEverything all had the chance to review the rerelease of the phone with JerryRigs finding that despite the added protection on the hinges, the Fold still pocketed a lot of the sand and dust particles it's supposed to keep out. Unless you're an early adopter, a $2000 price tag is just too much for first generation folding screen technology without a headphone jack and a flimsy screen. The phone is already available in South Korea with many reviewers praising the new technology, albeit addressing the caveats that come along with the new technology. There are currently no updates regarding when the phone might launch in Bangladesh but we will keep everyone posted during the time of the phone's launch.