Key Takeaways
- Samsung appears to be replacing the hidden selfie cameras with classic punch-holes on both the inner and outer displays of the Z Fold 7.
- Under-display camera technology still falls short in clarity due to additional screen layers obstructing the lens.
- If these updates are confirmed, the Z Fold 7 could potentially secure Samsung’s position at the forefront of the foldable market.
A fresh rumor about the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has emerged, suggesting that Samsung might be reintroducing punch-hole cameras for both the main and cover displays.
As reported by PandaFlash on X, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is likely to replace its under-display selfie cameras with a traditional punch-hole design (via TechRadar). Recent leaks support this, showcasing the camera cutout prominently on both screens.
Looking at the recently leaked images, it becomes evident that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will feature punch-hole cameras on both the cover and inner displays. However, for some users, this might seem like a regression in terms of aesthetics and technology for the Fold series.
This change harks back to the Galaxy Z Fold 2, the last model to utilize punch-holes on both screens. Since that time, including the current Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung has relied on under-display cameras (UDC), beginning with the Z Fold 3, which was the first to conceal the inner selfie camera under the display.
Reasons for the Change
While Samsung has not officially stated why they are moving away from the under-display camera for the Z Fold 7, it is likely for a straightforward reason: improved photo quality. Despite advancements, UDC technology still struggles to achieve the clarity of a traditional punch-hole camera, due to the extra display layer obstructing the lens.
Indeed, under-display cameras are impressive from a technical standpoint, but placing the lens underneath multiple display layers tends to deteriorate photo quality. This setup often leads to images that are noisy, poorly exposed, and subject to lens flare and other peculiar artifacts.
In contrast, a punch-hole camera eliminates these complications, usually resulting in far cleaner and sharper photos.
A New Era for Samsung’s Foldables?
If these rumored modifications come to fruition, Samsung may finally have the revival it needs to reclaim its status in the foldable market. After several years of caution, this might be the reinvigoration that places it back at the top of every best foldable list.
Although Samsung remains tight-lipped for now, all indications suggest a reveal for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 on July 9.