The Ultra Era Ends: What's Next for Samsung Flagships?
Why the Galaxy Z Fold 7 recently surpassed the flagship device.
Ankush Pandey
Samsung's flagship Galaxy S Ultra phones have been unmatched in their dominance above all other models, and for good reason. Samsung features the greatest chipsets, the best photography experience, the best materials, and the best of everything in this gadget.
This has been Samsung's flagship device, managing to hold its own against a plethora of Android-powered competitors. One could even argue that in some of the most significant areas in the world, including the US, it is the only genuine Android competitor to the iPhone.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra, the newest model in this venerable series, is the obvious choice if you want to spend more than $1,000 on your next Samsung flagship this year. However, there is now a device in Samsung's range that is deserving of carrying on the Galaxy S Ultra series. With the release of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 this year, Samsung has significantly improved its foldable lineup.
Galaxy G Fold, a Samsung trifold phone, has a tilted display.
When folded, it measures an incredible 8.8mm, which is 48% thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6 that was released only a year ago. According to all accounts, it is currently the thinnest foldable phone in the world. It's even lighter than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is what makes it appear so unbelievable.
When you hold the phone in your hand for the first time, it takes a moment to process this. The Galaxy S Ultra series is still a variation of the decades-old slab design, although being flawlessly improved each year.
With the Galaxy Z Fold 7, the possibilities of a smartphone have been brilliantly reimagined. An incredibly powerful tool for productivity and entertainment that doesn't weigh you down or lack the versatility of one of the greatest Samsung phones ever produced.
The Ultra series has long been a favourite among power users because of its outstanding performance. With its larger 8-inch foldable panel, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 takes it to the next level. This includes floating apps, a dedicated taskbar, triple-window layouts, and more.
Interface changes for the Samsung One UI 7 were leaked in the wild.
It's an increase in productivity. On this tablet-sized screen, you can also see the full potential of AI functions. Using features like Note Assist, Live Translate, Circle to Search, Generative Wallpaper, and more on a larger screen is a true pleasure. With more screen space, Galaxy AI becomes a workflow boost rather than merely a feature.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, which is used in both phones this year, provides performance comparable to the Ultra. Samsung has made considerable improvements to the Galaxy Z Fold 7's camera arrangement, which guarantees that the difference between both devices is narrowed considerably.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a little more costly than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, but the difference in price is worth a lot. Although it belongs to the premium market, the Galaxy S25 Ultra lacks a form factor advantage. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 combines a tablet, a phone, and a suite of mobile productivity tools.
Samsung's foldable technology has advanced considerably. Foldables are no longer considered experimental; they have been in use for over six months. Samsung has significantly improved the ruggedness of its displays, hinges, and water resistance.
It's ready for the general public and is currently the best example of what a flagship phone ought to be. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is one of the few top-tier folding phones available, but other brands have a nice flagship slab phone with good cameras. It is a manifestation of Samsung's forward-thinking innovation and its moonshot.
Therefore, if you've made the decision to spend over $1,000 on a Samsung flagship this year, go for reinvention rather than refinement. This phone is more than just Samsung's most ambitious model. It's the best phone made by Samsung.
