Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6 models, unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked Event 2024 in Paris on July 10, combine two key industry trends – foldables and GenAI. While featuring incremental hardware improvements, these models stand out when it comes to Samsung’s integration of Galaxy AI across its foldables and wearables. The models strengthen the Galaxy ecosystem and enhance user experience across smartphones, wearables, PCs and tablets.
Galaxy AI: Hybrid approach broadens product scope
Samsung’s hybrid approach to AI use cases is expanding the Galaxy AI experience to broader categories. Users will be more reliant on end experiences rather than the backend functionality. Samsung’s differentiation in terms of use cases based on the hybrid approach is evident. It highlights multiple features like Live Translate, which is done on the device, and image generation, which is done on the cloud. Optimizing these experiences on foldables makes them more relevant.
Research Director Tarun Pathak said, “Samsung’s hybrid AI approach brings innovation to everyday experiences, showcasing seamless functionality from device to use case. It is a leap forward where user interaction is the key, whether it is live translation or foldable optimization. It is all about making tech work smarter for you.”
Galaxy Z Fold6: Sleek business end of foldables; Galaxy Z Flip6: More premium, more fun
Samsung is expected to keep gaining mindshare in the foldables market with the launch of Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. The new devices feature meaningful updates along with a refreshed design that is more symmetrical and sleek. The hinge is further optimized with a dual-rail structure for more durability and enhanced Armor Aluminium. For the first time, Samsung has introduced a vapor chamber in the Z Flip series while also increasing the vapor chamber on Fold6 to enhance gaming experiences.
From the productivity point of view, the integration of Galaxy AI along with the S Pen experience could make these devices the first to unlock content creation use cases already seen in the AI PC segment. However, the outer display enhancement is still less than ideal for comfortable operation. Samsung highlighted significant productivity and communication use cases with Note Assist, PDF overlay, Sketch to Image, and Composer, making these features more relevant for productivity-centric devices like foldables.
Senior Analyst Gerrit Schneemann said, “Samsung’s mission is to dismantle the foldable barriers. By boosting camera performance to 50 MP, extending battery life, and fortifying the display and hinge, Samsung tackles the hurdles head-on, making foldables more irresistible.”
Galaxy Watch Ultra: ‘Athletic-grade’ with advanced features, algorithms
The Galaxy Watch series has a new addition to the Watch Ultra features – advanced health monitoring. This segment is niche but competitive. Samsung’s entry will test the features and endurance that an athletic-grade watch promises. Durable capabilities along with the latest chipset integration and WearOS 5 make it compelling. Sleep tracking gets better with AI algorithms for sleep analysis and sleep apnea features. The bioactive sensor offers better accuracy than similar products in the market. Besides, the 3nm processor promises three times faster CPU performance and 30% improved power efficiency.
Associate Director Jan Stryjak said, “For Galaxy Watch, sleep tracking gets better with AI algorithms for sleep analysis, along with the Sleep Apnea feature. The bioactive sensor offers more accuracy, which could act as a good differentiator to some of the similar products in the market.”
Galaxy Ring: A true complement to Galaxy wearables universe
Samsung’s debut with Galaxy Ring is expected to complement Galaxy Watch rather than compete with it. Galaxy Ring could act as a first point of entry to the Galaxy wearable segment for many users, potentially upgrading them to a watch later. Galaxy Ring works even longer when paired with a Galaxy Watch, further extending the already long battery life by up to 30%.
However, the category faces challenges in managing multiple SKUs (nine size options) and privacy permissions in different regions, possibly contributing to the delayed launch. In terms of design, durability and looks, the ring is promising. It weighs only 2.5-3 gm with seven days of battery life. The specially designed charging case is a highlight. The new energy score leverages four significant factors – sleep, activity, heart rate and heart rate variability – to provide a more powerful wellness metric to users. Preventive and prioritized alert notifications will be key going forward.
Senior Analyst Maurice Klaehne said, “No subscription hassle introduces Samsung users to effortless health tracking. It is a stepping stone into the Galaxy ecosystem, complementing, and not competing with, Galaxy Watch.”
Galaxy Buds: AI-powered innovation in wireless audio
The Interpreter feature is an exciting addition, with AI coming to TWS faster than anticipated. Samsung’s early move in this area will help create meaningful use cases for the category. The refreshed design looks clean and comfortable for the ears.
Research Director Tarun Pathak said, “The Interpreter feature is a game-changer, showcasing AI integration in TWS devices ahead of expectations. Samsung’s proactive approach is set to redefine how we use earbuds by combining advanced functionality with a sleek, comfortable design that is perfect for long-term wear.”
Conclusion
Overall, Samsung’s offerings at this Galaxy Unpacked demonstrate its resolve to lead the industry with innovative foldables, advanced AI integration, and cutting-edge health technology. Each new device and feature further strengthens the Galaxy ecosystem, promising a more seamless and enhanced user experience across devices.
