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The Game 161

macrumors Nehalem
Original poster
Dec 15, 2010
30,980
20,169
UK
This was me from day one! I knew exactly how I plan on utilizing the Fold… which is keep the outer display for quick interaction. Out of all the criticism the Fold gets… which some it might deserve, there’s no phone out there that has a 7plus inch display (not in the US).

I enjoy all the multitasking, Sound Assistant feature and all that comes with Android. I totally understand it’s not for everyone, but those power users who like to do more… the Fold is a must.

Yeah it’s the multitasking king. Really does a good job of using that screen from windows to 3 apps at once. Although I wouldn’t say I used 3 apps at once often but nice to have
 

Ludatyk

macrumors 603
May 27, 2012
5,965
5,133
Texas
Yeah it’s the multitasking king. Really does a good job of using that screen from windows to 3 apps at once. Although I wouldn’t say I used 3 apps at once often but nice to have
Absolutely! That’s why I’m not going back to the iPhone or any non-foldable Android phone. I enjoyed my time with the iPhone.. no shade to those who choose it, very consistent and smooth OS that provides a bridge to Apple Watch, Macs and iPads.

But I’m excited to see what’s next for Android 12 when it comes to the Fold and I’m anxiously waiting on OneUI 3.1.1 for new app optimization and to check out that pin taskbar feature, since I use Edge Panel quite a bit.
 

mjschabow

macrumors 601
Dec 25, 2013
4,924
6,239
Good points brought up regarding foldables in general. I don't know that I have the need to have 3/4 apps up at once, which is the big debate I think a lot of people will have in regards to foldables. The tech seems awesome but do we really need it?
 

Awesomesince86

macrumors 68020
Sep 18, 2016
2,482
3,302
Good points brought up regarding foldables in general. I don't know that I have the need to have 3/4 apps up at once, which is the big debate I think a lot of people will have in regards to foldables. The tech seems awesome but do we really need it?

I think it depends on how you want to use your phone. If you're someone constantly switching between apps and doing several things at once then it's the perfect phone. Otherwise, it's probably just a phone with a big screen.
 

Ludatyk

macrumors 603
May 27, 2012
5,965
5,133
Texas
Good points brought up regarding foldables in general. I don't know that I have the need to have 3/4 apps up at once, which is the big debate I think a lot of people will have in regards to foldables. The tech seems awesome but do we really need it?
I think it’s more to foldables than using 3/4 apps… although, that’s the just of it. I feel foldables bring a fresh air to the smartphone market... It’s only so much can be added to a standard smartphone. Apple can upgrade cameras annually to the iPhone, put in a 4k display.. maybe an in-display fingerprint.

However, when it comes to foldables… more thought has to come into it. In terms of the operating system.. how app optimization will work on it and then hardware-wise how will the camera set up be arranged. And how the displays will be handled. I think it’s the next evolution of smartphones.
 

Bkdodger

macrumors 68040
Jun 6, 2019
3,624
6,055
Well I did it again.. No I'm not upgrading no I'm sticking to my ZF2.. Order the Panda Z flip that will be it for me this year... Ha then I see discounts including additional $100 code I got from reddit yesterday and 5% I had to use myself... And I'm in with buds 2 for the order...
 

aggie99

macrumors 65816
Sep 23, 2016
1,002
2,338
Dallas, TX
Well I did it again.. No I'm not upgrading no I'm sticking to my ZF2.. Order the Panda Z flip that will be it for me this year... Ha then I see discounts including additional $100 code I got from reddit yesterday and 5% I had to use myself... And I'm in with buds 2 for the order...
That Flip3 sure is enticing. I upgraded the Fold2 to the Fold3 for the water resistance and s pen but I can't stop looking at that Flip. Thinking hard about selling the 12 PM and grabbing a Flip3. I still got an "old" iphone 11 around for the iPhone itch.
 
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aggie99

macrumors 65816
Sep 23, 2016
1,002
2,338
Dallas, TX
I think it depends on how you want to use your phone. If you're someone constantly switching between apps and doing several things at once then it's the perfect phone. Otherwise, it's probably just a phone with a big screen.
That right there is reason enough for me. As much as I travel it comes in handy. Dont have to lug the iPad with me. Being in the construction business I can easily pull up plans and edit, save, send them right from my phone. The split screen multitasking is just icing on the cake. It definitely comes in handy at times but the big screen is my primary reason for having the Fold and I'm sure that applies to many.
 

aggie99

macrumors 65816
Sep 23, 2016
1,002
2,338
Dallas, TX
Yeah, the Fold 3 inner screen protector still doesn't feel as good as a Naked Fold 2, but certainly better than the previous rubbery POS the Fold 2 had for a screen protector. It still irks me that the Fold 3 is a fingerprint magnet though on the inner screen. With the sp removed the Fold 2 was nowhere near as bad. I wish screen protectors could have an oloephobic coating applied to them. I know there is some spray and rub stuff, but from what I understand it doesn't really work well.
Give the Smittys Glass Wax a try. It's been a game changer for me. I apply it about once a week and it gives the effect of having an oleophobic coating. After application I just have to wipe every now and then with a microfiber cloth and it looks great. Worst case you are out $12.

 

Bkdodger

macrumors 68040
Jun 6, 2019
3,624
6,055
That Flip3 sure is enticing. I upgraded the Fold2 to the Fold3 for the water resistance and s pen but I can't stop looking at that Flip. Thinking hard about selling the 12 PM and grabbing a Flip3. I still got an "old" iphone 11 around for the iPhone itch.
Haha good idea... I sold my Pixel helped with me trying this Z flip.. I'm looking forward to it.. Be nice to swap sim with ZF3 on the go...
 
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Awesomesince86

macrumors 68020
Sep 18, 2016
2,482
3,302
I'm still pretty lukewarm with this Fold 3. I can see how this phone would be great for certain people, I just don't know if I fall in that group.

On the other hand, I love this Classic watch 4. Best android watch by a mile for me.
 

MisterMillz

macrumors 6502a
Mar 12, 2011
671
571
FL, USA
All things Apple for the last 10 years. Recently switched to a Pixel 4a5G and now Fold 3. Thoughts:

-Surprisingly comfortable when closed due to thin (and weird) aspect ratio. Personally would like a little more viewing area.

-I find myself choosing the outside screen for most things that take a few minutes or less to complete...quick text, YouTube search, web browsing, taking photos, etc.

-Inside screen is a treat when used. Multitasking is a dream! Device feels like a mobile transformer lol

-Audio, taptics and call volumes are solid. I love how the keyboards vibrate on touch with my Pixel and Fold.

-Don't like the duplicate apps. I prefer Google's apps (messages, phone, contacts, Chrome) over Samsung's. Not a big fuss. Just removed them from the home screen.

-Cameras are surprisingly good in my opinion. A lot of reviews dogged them, but in my opinion they gave the 4a 5g and my 12 Pro a run for their money.

-Battery is on the disappointing side. 4400mAh just isn't enough for a user like me. By mid day I'm having to charge if I want to make it through the rest of the evening and night. This thing needs a good 5000-5500 mAh.

-I like the inside camera--not for it's quality, but because it's so much less noticeable than a regular hole punch. Much less noticeable IMO.

-All in all, I'm pretty satisfied. Got the 512GB model after EPP discounts and pre-order bonuses for less than the cost of the 256GB model. Feeling pretty certain that I'll be hanging out on the Android side of things for the foreseeable future. Just got a Galaxy Book Pro 360 for my hardcore notes and computing needs. 2 devices. Done and done.
 

aggie99

macrumors 65816
Sep 23, 2016
1,002
2,338
Dallas, TX
I'm still pretty lukewarm with this Fold 3. I can see how this phone would be great for certain people, I just don't know if I fall in that group.

On the other hand, I love this Classic watch 4. Best android watch by a mile for me.
I'm definitely not as excited about it as the first two. It really is just a more refined version of the ZF2 which was a huge upgrade from the ZF1. However it addresses most of the gripes I had about the ZF2 which was almost perfect for me. I still do wish for a camera on the level of the S21 Ultra and the smaller battery capacity is unfortunate but all in all I'm very happy with it. It's definitely a device that's not for everyone.

On the Watch 4 Classic, I couldn't agree with you more. I've had almost all of the Samsung smartwatches, the Moto watches when WearOS first came out, and this one is far above and beyond any of those. I haven't touched my Apple Watch for two days. First time I've gone that long without my Apple Watch in years. The watch is one of the few things keeping me tied to the iPhone.
 

bigup

macrumors 6502
Mar 7, 2008
282
251
United Kingdom
Been using a 12 pro max/AW5 for 6 months. Generally happy and everything works ok, things started to get a little stale and same old same old and now have the upgrade itch.

Fold3 was announced and it intrigued me. Got one ordered and it arrived today as well as a watch4 classic.

(Not a noob to android), set it up just how i like it and wow the screen does blow you away. The front screen i find a little too narrow for my fat thumbs but using the main screen is a Joy.

you can feel the screen crease with your finger which was a little off putting at first but this soon goes away.

first day today and battery got battered with all the setting up of apps etc but I can see how people are little worried about it.

the under screen camera hides it self very well and not bothered me one bit.

for the way I use my phone I think the fold3 Isn’t very practical for me. I’m too used to whipping a phone out of my front pocket , unlock and get on with it. If the front screen was a little wider then it would be even better, ie use the front for on the go and use big screen when you have more time and want to do more in-depth work.

folded size is also a little bit of a concern. im using it naked right now but once there is a case on it, it will simply be too bulky for my liking.

i then played with the iPhone and instantly can see how dated it looks lol.

I think il try the S21 ultra next to see if that is better for me, a better camera and battery On par with the iPhones.

the watch4 classic is a joy to use though. Really like it and will be keeping it.

just my 2p worth, I’m glad i tried it, technology has certainly risen to the next level.
 

Ludatyk

macrumors 603
May 27, 2012
5,965
5,133
Texas
On the Watch 4 Classic, I couldn't agree with you more. I've had almost all of the Samsung smartwatches, the Moto watches when WearOS first came out, and this one is far above and beyond any of those. I haven't touched my Apple Watch for two days. First time I've gone that long without my Apple Watch in years. The watch is one of the few things keeping me tied to the iPhone.
Never owned a Samsung Smartwatch, but just picked up the Watch 4 Classic. I gotta good feeling this time around… Samsung and Google is going to give the Apple Watch a run for it’s money.

for the way I use my phone I think the fold3 Isn’t very practical for me. I’m too used to whipping a phone out of my front pocket , unlock and get on with it. If the front screen was a little wider then it would be even better, ie use the front for on the go and use big screen when you have more time and want to do more in-depth work.
I’m really hoping Samsung addresses this for the Fold4… I rather have a wider display on the outer screen. I don’t care to use the outer display due to the narrowness.

Please temper down the Watch 4 praises peeps.. I've been eyeballing it and don't need to spend more cash .. I should have gone with it on my pre-order
Go ahead and buy it! It’s worth it!
 

mjschabow

macrumors 601
Dec 25, 2013
4,924
6,239
I'm still pretty lukewarm with this Fold 3. I can see how this phone would be great for certain people, I just don't know if I fall in that group.

On the other hand, I love this Classic watch 4. Best android watch by a mile for me.
That's why I do wonder if Folds will truly take off. I know that's what the industry wants, but I just don't know if the consumers as a whole want it.
 
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LIVEFRMNYC

macrumors G3
Oct 27, 2009
8,877
10,987
for the way I use my phone I think the fold3 Isn’t very practical for me. I’m too used to whipping a phone out of my front pocket , unlock and get on with it. If the front screen was a little wider then it would be even better, ie use the front for on the go and use big screen when you have more time and want to do more in-depth work.

This was my concern when I first received the Fold 2. But honestly I've grown to actually like it better. Much easier to slip in and out my front left pocket. It's easier to hold, and because of it's slimness, the side fps is easier to use vs under front display or back. I don't really type much when walking, so responding to messages while walking is easy with swiping, obviously for just short replies. I just haven't found much I can't do vs a standard display. When I'm stationary, I usually use it unfolded.
 
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Zwhaler

macrumors 604
Jun 10, 2006
7,267
1,965
What keyboards do you all use? I use SwiftKey and haven't looked back. I can't stand Samsung's stock keyboard.
 

SteveJUAE

macrumors 601
Aug 14, 2015
4,513
4,753
Land of Smiles
That's why I do wonder if Folds will truly take off. I know that's what the industry wants, but I just don't know if the consumers as a whole want it.
Why should that be a concern, buy the device that suits you

You do not have to be a power user to get the most out of a Fold

Just the simple fact it can consolidate 3 devices (Phone, mini tablet, Kindle) in to one for many and even Samsung Dex can give more than enough desktop experience to replace many users laptop/Ipad requirements

The issue is more of informing the average user that the initial price seems high but if it removes the cost of multiple devices and hassle of maintaining them etc the Fold can work out a massive overall saving

Others have already noted many of these review we see rarely explain the full capabilities and practicalities of the Fold and concentrate on comparisons to slabs format and their limiting use
 

mjschabow

macrumors 601
Dec 25, 2013
4,924
6,239
Why should that be a concern, buy the device that suits you

You do not have to be a power user to get the most out of a Fold

Just the simple fact it can consolidate 3 devices (Phone, mini tablet, Kindle) in to one for many and even Samsung Dex can give more than enough desktop experience to replace many users laptop/Ipad requirements

The issue is more of informing the average user that the initial price seems high but if it removes the cost of multiple devices and hassle of maintaining them etc the Fold can work out a massive overall saving

Others have already noted many of these review we see rarely explain the full capabilities and practicalities of the Fold and concentrate on comparisons to slabs format and their limiting use
Never said it was a concern.
 

spinedoc77

macrumors G4
Jun 11, 2009
11,488
5,413
So sadly I just packed up and returned my Fold 3. I still have my Fold 2, will most likely throw that up on Swappa. I had planned on using 2 phones, as I'm forced to go back to an iPhone for work. But in practice it's just too bulky, I mean the combination of 2 phones not just the Fold 3. I'll keep looking at this thread and live vicariously through everyone else until maybe 2026 when maybe Apple *might* have a foldable phone.
 
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Ludatyk

macrumors 603
May 27, 2012
5,965
5,133
Texas
What keyboards do you all use? I use SwiftKey and haven't looked back. I can't stand Samsung's stock keyboard.
I’m sure if I used SwiftKey... I’ll probably like it, but I don’t have a problem with the stock keyboard… it never failed me. Plus with the addition of KeysCafe and ThemePark… I’m alright with it.

So sadly I just packed up and returned my Fold 3. I still have my Fold 2, will most likely throw that up on Swappa. I had planned on using 2 phones, as I'm forced to go back to an iPhone for work. But in practice it's just too bulky, I mean the combination of 2 phones not just the Fold 3. I'll keep looking at this thread and live vicariously through everyone else until maybe 2026 when maybe Apple *might* have a foldable phone.
So, your done with foldables completely? You upgrade to the Fold 3… only to get rid of both Fold 2 and 3?
 
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