This week marks an exciting moment for smartphone enthusiasts as Samsung is poised to unveil the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 7 at its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event on July 9, 2025, in New York. While fans are eager to see the latest enhancements, it appears that some aspects of the device’s design, particularly its dust resistance, may remain unchanged. According to reliable leaker PandaFlashX, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will maintain an IP48 rating for both dust and water resistance, identical to that of its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
The IP48 rating indicates that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 can endure immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for a duration of 30 minutes, making it suitable for accidental spills or brief submersion. However, it’s important to note that the dust resistance offered by this rating is limited to larger particles, unlike the finer grain protection provided by devices with an IP68 rating. This means that when it comes to dust resistance, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will not be on par with the flagship devices in Samsung's Galaxy S25 lineup, particularly the impressive Galaxy S25 Ultra, which boasts a superior IP68 rating.
As Samsung gears up for the launch, there are different ways to interpret this news. On a positive note, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is not regressing in terms of durability, as it maintains the same level of dust resistance as the previous model. This is particularly noteworthy given that Samsung is reportedly making the device thinner while also increasing its screen size. However, this news may not align with the high expectations set by Samsung through their marketing teasers, which have positioned the new model as delivering an Ultra experience.
In these teasers, Samsung has emphasized the ongoing refinement of the Galaxy Z series, focusing on making devices thinner, lighter, and more durable with each iteration. While there might be advancements in other areas of durability, such as materials or structure, the lack of improvement in dust resistance could be seen as a missed opportunity for Samsung to lead the foldable market.
Despite the concerns regarding dust resistance, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is rumored to feature significant upgrades upon its debut. Reports suggest that the main display will be enlarged to an impressive 8 inches from the previous 7.6 inches found on the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Additionally, the cover screen is expected to grow to 6.5 inches, up from 6.3 inches. These enhancements indicate Samsung's commitment to delivering a more immersive user experience.
Furthermore, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is anticipated to offer a slimmer profile, reportedly ranging from 3.9mm to 4.5mm in thickness. This is a notable reduction compared to the 5.6mm thickness of its predecessor. Last year, Samsung raised the price of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 to $1,899, which was a $100 increase. However, pricing rumors suggest that Samsung may maintain the current price point for the Galaxy Z Fold 7, making it an appealing option for consumers.
For those interested in purchasing the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung is offering a pre-event promotion. By registering your name and email address with Samsung prior to the July 9 event, you can receive a $50 credit towards the purchase of any product showcased during the event. This includes not only the Galaxy Z Fold 7 but also the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the latest models of the Galaxy Watch 8.
In addition to these exciting foldable devices, Samsung is expected to preview a variety of innovative products, including a triple-folding Galaxy G Fold device and the Project Moohan mixed reality headset. As the launch approaches, technology enthusiasts and consumers alike are eager to see how Samsung continues to push the boundaries of foldable smartphone technology.