Samsung Fold Cameras: Why Under-Display Tech Was a Mistake
- After three years of underwhelming performance, Samsung has removed the under-display camera (UDC) from its galaxy Z Fold series.
- Samsung's initial foray into under-display camera technology on the Galaxy Z Fold was met with excitement.
- The UDC's shortcomings where particularly noticeable when using the Galaxy Z Fold in Flex Mode.
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Samsung Dumps Under-Display camera on Galaxy Z Fold: A Smart Move
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After three years of underwhelming performance, Samsung has removed the under-display camera (UDC) from its galaxy Z Fold series. This decision,while seemingly a step back in innovation,ultimately improves the user experience and camera quality.
The Problem with the Under-Display Camera
Samsung’s initial foray into under-display camera technology on the Galaxy Z Fold was met with excitement. The promise of a truly uninterrupted display was appealing. Though, the reality fell short. The UDC consistently suffered from poor image quality, largely due to its low 4-megapixel resolution. Despite three years of iterations, the quality never reached a level competitive with customary cameras.
Flex Mode and the UDC’s limitations
The UDC’s shortcomings where particularly noticeable when using the Galaxy Z Fold in Flex Mode. This feature allows the phone to be used hands-free, ideal for video calls and photography. Though, when in Flex Mode, the cover display turns off, and the phone automatically switches to the inner screen’s camera. This forces users to rely on the UDC, despite its inferior quality, unless they unfold the phone to a less-than-90-degree angle – a less-than-ideal workaround.
While the cover display camera offers a solution for selfies and video calls when the phone is folded, it’s not a viable option in Flex Mode. Using the rear camera for selfies is possible, but cumbersome. It requires enabling a preview on the cover display, flipping the unfolded phone, and maintaining a steady grip – a far cry from convenient.
Why Removing the UDC Was the Right Call
Samsung’s decision to remove the UDC isn’t a retreat from innovation, but a pragmatic acknowledgment of its current limitations. Focusing on improving the quality of the existing cameras – the cover display camera and the rear cameras – provides a more immediate and impactful benefit to users.
Here’s a breakdown of the advantages of this change:
- Improved Image Quality: Resources can now be dedicated to enhancing the performance of the more frequently used cameras.
- Enhanced User Experience: Eliminates the need to compromise on camera quality when using Flex Mode.
- Streamlined Design: Removing the UDC simplifies the display construction, perhaps improving durability.
Galaxy Z Fold Camera Specs: A Comparison
| Camera | Galaxy Z Fold 5 (Expected) | Galaxy Z Fold 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Cover Display Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Under Display Camera | N/A | 4MP |
| Rear Main Camera | 50MP | 50MP |
| Rear Ultrawide Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Rear Telephoto Camera | 10MP (3x Optical Zoom) | 10MP (3x Optical Zoom) |
Note: Galaxy Z Fold 5 specs are based on current leaks and expectations as of October 26, 2023.
What Does This Mean for the Future of UDC Technology?
Samsung’s decision doesn’t necessarily signal the end of under-display camera technology. It suggests that the technology isn’t mature enough for a flagship device like the Galaxy Z Fold. Further research and development are needed to improve image quality and address the technical challenges associated with placing a camera beneath the display.