In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Exynos 2500 Chip and Planned Foldable Phones: Galaxy Z Flip7, Z Flip FE, and Beyond

In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Exynos 2500 Chip and Planned Foldable Phones: Galaxy Z Flip7, Z Flip FE, and BeyondDespite the setbacks, the Exynos 2500's inclusion in the Galaxy Z Flip7 is exciting news. Leaks suggest the Galaxy Z Flip7's camera hardware will largely mirror its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip6, retaining a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP front camera foregoing the 12MP sensor upgrade seen in the Galaxy S25 series

In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Exynos 2500 Chip and Planned Foldable Phones: Galaxy Z Flip7, Z Flip FE, and Beyond

Recent news from Samsung's Q4 2024 earnings call revealed that the Exynos 2500 SoC is undergoing final optimizations and is slated for inclusion in devices launching in Q2 2025. The highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 is expected to be the launch vehicle for the Exynos 2500, meaning its release is also anticipated for Q2 2025.

Initially, Samsung planned to debut the Exynos 2500 in the Galaxy S25 series. However, due to a low yield rate of around 20%, the entire Galaxy S25 lineup ultimately utilized the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy. This setback delayed the Exynos 2500's release. The Exynos 2500 features a deca-core CPU design (1+2+5+2), and an Xclipse 950 GPU based on AMD's RDNA 3.5 architecture, clocked at 1.3GHz with 8 custom Work Group Processors (WGPs). Its graphics performance is highly anticipated.

Despite the setbacks, the Exynos 2500's inclusion in the Galaxy Z Flip7 is exciting news. Leaks suggest the Galaxy Z Flip7's camera hardware will largely mirror its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip6, retaining a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP front camera foregoing the 12MP sensor upgrade seen in the Galaxy S25 series. Instead of focusing solely on hardware upgrades, Samsung is prioritizing software optimization. The Galaxy Z Flip7 will utilize the Pro-Visual engine, first introduced in the Galaxy S25 series, to enhance image processing and overall photo and video quality.

Beyond the Galaxy Z Flip7, Samsung's revised foldable phone strategy is also noteworthy. While previously employing a straightforward iterative approach, the company launched the well-received Galaxy Z Fold6 Special Edition, signaling a shift in its foldable market strategy. Further solidifying this change, Samsung plans to release the Galaxy Z Flip FE.

Details about the Galaxy Z Flip FE are slowly emerging. Leaks suggest it will use the display from the previous generation Galaxy Z Flip6 to reduce costs and the price point. Its name, "FE" (Fan Edition), indicates its aim to offer popular features at a more affordable price. Unlike the high-end positioning of the Galaxy Z Flip7, the Galaxy Z Flip FE will focus on value, appealing to users wanting a foldable experience without a premium price tag. While specific details are scarce, it might feature the Exynos 2400e, seen in the September 2024 Galaxy S24 FE. Industry analysts predict it will become Samsung's most budget-friendly foldable, but precise specifications and a launch date are likely to be revealed later in 2025.

In addition to new devices, Samsung is continuously innovating in foldable screen technology. Recently, Samsung and its foldable screen protector supplier, Segyung HiTech, filed a patent for a more durable screen structure. This patent describes a strengthened design that better withstands drops and everyday wear and tear.

The patent builds upon Segyung's standard protective film for foldable screens over ultra-thin glass (UTG). However, a new impact-resistant and light-blocking layer has been added. This layer, made of a specialized polymer, absorbs impact energy, significantly enhancing screen protection. The patent highlights a relatively straightforward manufacturing process involving applying the light-blocking layer and impact-resistant polymer to the top layer of the film. This suggests significantly improved durability for future Samsung foldables.

In summary, Samsung will be highly active in the foldable phone market from the latter half of 2024 into 2025. From optimizing and deploying the Exynos 2500 chip, to launching the Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip FE, and innovating in screen protection technology, Samsung demonstrates its commitment and capabilities in the foldable phone sector. Its foldable phone lineup will become more diverse, catering to a wider range of price points and user needs, furthering the market's growth and adoption. Samsung's continued efforts in the foldable space are worth watching closely.