Samsung Electronics has officially launched its new foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, with pre-orders now fully open. The most notable upgrade in this iteration is the significantly slimmer body, which offers improved portability and has won widespread praise from early reviewers. However, this engineering breakthrough has also pushed up product costs and repair risks.

According to official information, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts at $1,999, an increase from its predecessor. What is more alarming for consumers is that if the inner folding screen is damaged, the repair cost could be as high as $885, a figure far exceeding the screen repair costs of traditional straight-screen phones. Industry analysts believe that the slimmed-down design may have put higher demands on internal structural strength and screen protection technology, thereby increasing repair complexity and component costs.

Despite the recognition of the progress in ergonomic design— the lighter and thinner body makes one-handed holding and pocket carrying much easier, there have been sporadic reports in the market that some Fold 7 devices fail to lay completely flat. This has raised concerns among consumers about the durability of its hinge and long-term usage stability.

For potential buyers, the purchase decision now requires a balance between the stylish and portable product experience and the potential high maintenance costs. Commentators point out that as high-end tech products, the issue of repair costs for foldable phones may prompt more consumers to opt for additional warranty services to reduce the financial risks of accidental damage. Currently, the pre-order status and market response to the two new models remain to be further observed.