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The foldable's unfolding dilemma: Is a crease holding you back from purchasing one?

By Johanna Romero

Published: Aug 30, 2024, 9:38 AM

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Image of the OnePlus Open held in its unfolded form showing the display

OnePlus Open | Image credit — PhoneArena

Let's face it, the crease on foldable phones has been a bit of an eyesore for some folks. It's that little line right in the middle of the screen where the phone folds, and it's been a sticking point for those who are on the fence about jumping into the foldable world. We have seen Google's upcoming Pixel 9 Pro Fold already unboxed, and the crease is clearly there. But is the crease really that big of a deal, or is it just a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things? Let's dive in and explore the crease conundrum, considering different foldable brands and how their creases have been received.

Different brands have tackled the crease issue with varying degrees of success. Samsung, a major player in the foldable market, has made significant strides in minimizing the crease on its newer models like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. While it's still noticeable under certain lighting conditions, it's far less pronounced than on earlier generations.

An image of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google Pixel Fold being held up by a person

The crease on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google Pixel Fold | Image credit — PhoneArena

Other brands like Motorola and OnePlus / Oppo have also made efforts to reduce the crease's visibility, though some users still find it somewhat distracting. It seems that the crease, while improving, remains a point of contention for some potential foldable adopters.

An image of the OnePlus Open held up showcasing its display with a beam of light across it

The "barely there" crease on the OnePlus Open | Image credit — PhoneArena

So, is the crease really a dealbreaker? Well, it depends on who you ask. Some users are perfectly fine with a slight crease, especially when they consider the benefits of a larger, foldable screen. Others, however, find it a constant annoyance that detracts from the overall experience.

Let's weigh the pros and cons of foldable versus traditional "slab" smartphones to get a clearer picture.

Foldables: The pros

Bigger screen real estate: Foldables offer a significantly larger screen when unfolded, making them ideal for multitasking, watching videos, and gaming.
Portability: Despite the larger screen size, foldables can still be compact when folded, making them easier to carry in pockets or bags.
Innovation factor: Foldables are still a relatively new technology, and owning one can be a conversation starter and a symbol of embracing the cutting edge.

Foldables: The cons

The crease: As we've discussed, the crease can be a visual distraction for some users.
Durability concerns: Foldables are generally more delicate than traditional smartphones, and their hinges and screens may be more susceptible to damage.
Price: Foldables are typically more expensive than their slab counterparts.

Slab smartphones: The pros

Familiarity: Most people are already comfortable with the traditional smartphone form factor.
Durability: Slab phones are typically more robust and less prone to damage.
Price: Slab phones offer a wider range of price points, including more affordable options.

Slab smartphones: The cons

Limited screen size: Traditional smartphones have smaller screens, which can be less ideal for multitasking and media consumption.
Lack of innovation: Slab phones can feel a bit stagnant compared to the exciting new possibilities offered by foldables.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to embrace the crease and go foldable or stick with a traditional slab phone comes down to individual preferences and priorities. If you value a larger screen and are willing to accept a minor crease, a foldable might be the perfect fit. If you prioritize durability, affordability, and a familiar form factor, a slab phone might be the better choice.

The good news is that foldable technology is constantly evolving. As creases become less noticeable and prices become more competitive, we may see more people embracing the fold in the future. Until then, the crease remains a fascinating point of debate in the ever-evolving world of smartphones.

Whether you are team crease or team slab, there's no denying that the foldable revolution has brought a new level of excitement and innovation to the mobile tech landscape. So, what will it be for you? Will you embrace the fold or stick with the tried and true? The choice is yours.

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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and official member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.