Samsung unveiled its newest iterations of foldable phones during the highly anticipated Unpacked 2024 event. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 have been designed to be thinner and lighter compared to their previous models. Additionally, the Fold 6 introduces a much-anticipated improvement to its front display aspect ratio, which has traditionally been narrow. Additionally, the starting prices for both devices have been raised to $1,900 for the Fold and $1,100 for the Flip. This represents a $100 increase compared to previous models.
As expected, though, this is primarily a play in the realm of artificial intelligence. Surprisingly, the announcement for the new devices titled “Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 Elevate Galaxy AI to New Heights” includes a whopping 25 mentions of “AI.”. The centerpiece of the features is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the powerful system on a chip that also drove the Galaxy S24.
The flagship, unveiled in January, signaled the start of Samsung’s Galaxy AI campaign. It also marked the beginning of a trend that has greatly influenced the rise of mobile AI devices, as seen in the subsequent developer conferences held by Google, Apple, and Microsoft. It comes as no surprise that Google played a key role in Samsung’s initial efforts, with the S24 also introducing the Circle to Search feature. 
It was a departure from Google’s usual Android feature release schedule, where the most exciting new features are typically introduced on their own Pixel line. In recent years, the bond between Samsung and Google has grown stronger as they united against a shared rival, Apple. Lately, the tech giants have joined forces to develop an Android fork specifically designed for foldable devices. Additionally, they have introduced a fresh approach to Wear OS, which will replace Tizen on Galaxy Watch devices.
In the Galaxy Z Fold/Galaxy Z Flip press release, Samsung has dedicated an entire paragraph to Google Gemini, just a month after the launch of Apple Intelligence. The integration of the generative AI app on the Z Fold 6’s expansive screen is becoming more seamless. Bixby, unfortunately, never had much of a fighting chance. Samsung discreetly discontinued its in-house alternative to Siri/Assistant, opting for Google’s newest offering.
According to Samsung:
With just a swipe of the screen or a simple voice command, you can easily access the Gemini overlay and receive assistance with writing, learning, or planning. Gemini seamlessly integrates with popular Google apps, allowing you to effortlessly plan an impeccable travel itinerary. Stay updated with real-time flight and hotel booking details, and effortlessly navigate to renowned landmarks using Google Maps. If you’re looking for in-depth details about a K-pop music video while enjoying YouTube on the expansive screen of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, you’ll be pleased to know that you can easily access the Gemini overlay in the multi-window split-screen feature to ask any questions you may have.
With just a swipe of the screen or a simple voice command, you can easily access the Gemini overlay and receive assistance with writing, learning, or planning. Gemini seamlessly integrates with popular Google apps, allowing you to effortlessly plan an impeccable travel itinerary. Stay updated with real-time flight and hotel booking details, and effortlessly navigate to renowned landmarks using Google Maps. If you’re looking for in-depth details about a K-pop music video while enjoying YouTube on the expansive screen of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, you’ll be pleased to know that you can easily access the Gemini overlay in the multi-window split-screen feature to ask any questions you may have.
Google has been gradually replacing its own Assistant with Gemini, although the generative AI platform is still in development. Jumping on the Gemini trend was definitely a wise decision when there are no in-house LLMs to depend on. Surprisingly, even Apple has decided to collaborate with OpenAI to tackle challenging questions that go beyond their own devices.
Regarding Galaxy AI, the S24 initially focused on imaging, which has always been a crucial aspect of Samsung’s mobile strategy. For its latest update, the company is enhancing its Notes app with AI-driven assistance. I possess the skills to transcribe, translate, and summarize voice recordings, just like the industry leaders Google and Apple. The app has improved its ability to translate PDFs, while Samsung Keyboard now includes a new predictive text feature.
Indeed, Galaxy AI will make every effort to emulate your unique writing style, whether it be for better or worse. “Composer analyzes previous posts to create text that reflects your desired tone, especially for social media,” Samsung explains.
In the end, the AI aspect remains unchanged, but the Galaxy Z Flip 6’s transition to a more square internal aspect ratio shows that Samsung is actively addressing consumer preferences. This adjustment comes in response to the success of foldables from Google and OnePlus/Oppo, which have proven that these devices can be designed without being excessively tall. While Samsung continues to hold a strong position in the foldables market, it is not impervious to the impact of market dynamics. Keep in mind that this category is still in its early stages and has a long way to go before reaching perfection.
You can now preorder both phones and they will be shipped on July 24.
