We’re already in the second half of 2025, and it feels like the year just flew by. But let’s focus on today, July 9, when Samsung made a major announcement by unveiling three new foldable devices: the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and the new Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE. The latter is especially intriguing since it’s Samsung’s first foldable Fan Edition model. 
However, while the launch is exciting, it’s worth asking: Was this the best time to release such a device?
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, launching on July 25, comes in two variants: one with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage for $899, and the other with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage for $959. While it’s not dramatically different from the Z Flip 6, the FE version does share the same front and inner screens, a 6.7-inch main display, and a 3.4-inch outer screen. While some might find the outer display small, it’s important to remember that this design helped reduce my doomscrolling addiction.
There’s a 50 MP camera on the back, which is the same as the premium Z Flip 7. However, given the similarities in camera specs to the Z Flip 6, those who are primarily drawn to high megapixel counts might not find this a game-changer. The device comes in two standard colors-white and black-which, frankly, could use a bit more excitement. Foldables are still relatively new and attention-grabbing, so it would be nice to see more bold and unique color options next time.
For me, foldables are a fascinating area of mobile tech. I believe they’re going to become commonplace soon. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, like previous Fan Edition devices from Samsung, aims to offer top-tier performance at a more affordable price. These models usually use older processors and more practical materials, providing a great experience without the premium price tag. The FE models are geared towards fans who want great tech without breaking the bank.
Now, let’s talk timing. Foldables have been around for a few years, but they’ve largely remained a niche product, with prices well over $1,000 keeping them out of reach for many. By offering the Z Flip 7 FE at a lower price point, Samsung is pushing foldables closer to mainstream adoption. This strategy worked for the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition, which became a hit by offering flagship-level features at a more affordable price.
However, this is where things get tricky. At $899, the Z Flip 7 FE isn’t dramatically cheaper than Samsung’s flagship clamshell models, like the Z Flip 6 and Z Flip 7, which can drop close to that price point during discounts or trade-ins. This raises the question: Who exactly is the Z Flip 7 FE for? A truly budget-friendly foldable, say, in the $600 range, could have sparked mass interest and helped more people dip their toes into foldable tech.
The Z Flip 7 FE sits in a strange middle ground. It’s not cheap enough to appeal to a wide audience but isn’t premium enough to justify its price over older flagship models. Maybe Samsung should’ve released this more affordable version earlier, around the launch of the Z Flip 3 back in 2021, when foldables were still newer. The competition is heating up, with companies like Motorola and Xiaomi pushing foldable designs with larger screens and slimmer builds. If Samsung wants to stay ahead, it needs to do more to make foldables more accessible. A truly budget-friendly foldable could be the key to breaking the price barrier.