It's time for foldable phone manufacturers to prioritize camera hardware over device thinness

Referential image of the OPPO Find N5. | Image credit — PhoneArena
However, as the foldable market matures, it feels like consumer expectations might be changing — at least in my point of view. For example, I, for one, am no longer willing to compromise on essential features like camera quality. I want a device that can do it all: fold, unfold, and take great pictures.
As non-scientific as my own point of view and that of my friends are, it appears that Samsung is acknowledging this shift. By adding a 200MP camera to the Z Fold 6 special edition, they are signaling that they are taking camera performance seriously. This move could potentially set a new standard for foldable devices, particularly when it comes to Samsung — once the uncontested leader in producing this form factor.

Samsung did the unthinkable and added a 200MP camera on the Z Fold 6 Special Edition. | Image credit — Samsung
On the other hand, some manufacturers, like OPPO, are still prioritizing thinness. The Find N5, while impressively thin, features a camera system that is less capable than what is found in their flagship non-foldable phones. This approach highlights the ongoing tension between design and functionality in the foldable market. Manufacturers are still trying to find the perfect balance between creating thin, elegant devices and providing top-tier camera performance.

The OPPO Find N5 prioritizes thinness over its cameras. | Image credit — OPPO
The decision to improve the camera system in foldable phones is not just about megapixels. It's about providing a complete and satisfying user experience. A good camera system can enhance the overall usability of a foldable device, allowing users to capture high-quality photos and videos in various situations. This is especially important for users who rely on their phones for photography, whether it's for personal use or professional purposes.
The inclusion of a 200MP camera in Samsung's foldable line could also have implications for the future of mobile photography. High megapixel counts can lead to greater detail and flexibility in post-processing. This means that users can crop and edit their photos without losing too much quality. Furthermore, the advancements in camera technology in foldable devices could trickle down to other smartphone categories, leading to overall improvements in mobile photography.
The disparity between these approaches shows the diverse strategies being applied in the foldable market. The choice between prioritizing thinness and prioritizing camera quality ultimately comes down to consumer preferences, as some might prefer a thinner foldable so that when the device is folded it takes up no more space than a regular slab when put inside a pocket.
As the foldable market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see which approach prevails. The future of foldable cameras will likely depend on the balance between design and functionality. Personally, I prefer a device with a better camera to one that is super thin any day. Give me more functionality, not less, I say.
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