Samsung Ponders Over Reversing S Pen Return Decision Following Galaxy Z Fold 7's Exclusion of the Feature
In a move aimed at delivering a sleeker and more lightweight device, Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 7, boasting a thinner and lighter Armor Flex Hinge compared to its predecessor, the Fold 6. This design decision has resulted in the Galaxy Z Fold 7 measuring just 8.9mm when unfolded and 4.2mm when folded, a significant reduction from its previous measurements.
However, the new model comes with a trade-off, according to Samsung's executive director of the MX business division, Kang Min-seok. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 does not feature a standalone S Pen, a decision that prioritises thinness and lightness over the inclusion of the stylus. This stance is echoed by Samsung's executive vice president and head of customer experience, Patrick Chomet, who emphasised that getting the Galaxy Z Fold 7 thinner and lighter is more important than adding an S Pen.
While the current model forgoes the S Pen, Samsung is reportedly looking into research and development means for new technologies within a future S Pen to make it thinner and more compatible with foldable displays. This innovation could include features such as increased durability, enhanced pressure sensitivity, and possibly new software capabilities tailored for multitasking on a foldable screen.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 7's design decisions seem to be influenced by consumer demand for thin and light devices, as evidenced by the comments from both Kang Min-seok and Patrick Chomet. The battery capacity of the device has also been boosted, offering a more substantial power source for users.
For those interested in an S Pen, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the device to consider. Meanwhile, the Flip 7, Samsung's other foldable offering this year, has been equipped with a full cover display (4-inch) that reaches edge-to-edge for a more immersive experience.
Despite the absence of the S Pen in the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung remains committed to advancing foldable technology and integrating the S Pen in future models. The future Galaxy Z Fold with S Pen is expected to bring innovative technology enhancements along with a thinner S Pen design to better fit the foldable form factor.
In a recent statement, Kang Min-seok hinted at the possibility of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 considering a future S Pen return. However, for now, the focus is on delivering a sleeker, more lightweight foldable device that caters to the growing demand for thin and portable technology.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7, released by Samsung,focuses on the sleekness and lightness of the device, forgoing the standalone S Pen to achieve this goal. Samsung is, however, investing in research and development for future S Pen technologies to be more compatible with foldable displays.