Samsung’s next-generation foldable phone is at least seven months away, but it looks like 2025 will be the year when the Korean giant introduces a cheaper model rather than offering a price hike.
Rumors in November and December mentioned the affordable Galaxy Z Flip FE model that Samsung will launch in the summer of 2025. Now we have more evidence that the “Fan Edition” version of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is real and will likely be launched this year.
according to SmartPrixThe Galaxy Z Flip FE has appeared in the GSMA database. The device has been added to the database after Christmas, listed as a “Galaxy Z Flip XE” device with the model number SM-F761B.
The “XE” designator in the name is either a spelling error or an attempt to avoid detection. Another possibility is that Samsung isn’t sure which moniker to use.
Fan Edition (FE) is the name Samsung usually uses for the cheaper Galaxy S models that are launched in the second half of the year. Then there is the name Special Edition (SE) that Samsung will use in late 2024 for the limited version of the thin Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Considering a previous leak that claimed Samsung was developing a cheaper type of foldable Flip, the Fan Edition name seems more likely. That’s why the Galaxy Z Flip FE designer is more useful.
Also, the Galaxy Z Flip line sells better than the Fold, because it’s more affordable. Also, the Fold 6 became more expensive last year. Making a cheaper version of the folding that gets more attention from buyers might be the better play here.
The GSMA listing does not provide any details about the Galaxy Z Flip FE. It’s not clear what compromises to expect from the cheaper Flip variant launched this year. Samsung will also have the regular Galaxy Z Flip 7 in stores and a Fold 7 phone that will look like the Galaxy Z Fold SE.
I expect the Galaxy Z Flip SE to use the Flip 6 design and some key specs. Samsung could also save money by replacing Qualcomm’s flagship chip with an Exynos variant, but that’s all just a guess.
Last year’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 is easily Samsung’s best Flip phone to date, a better flagship than its predecessor. The phone starts at $1,099 before offers, which is more expensive than the candybar flagship. It will be interesting to see the price of Samsung’s Flip FE variant.
The base 2024 Motorola Razr costs $699.99, which is a great price for a foldable handset. I expect Samsung to target this price point with the Galaxy Z Flip FE.
