Can OnePlus’s First-Ever Foldable Phone Outshine Samsung’s Fold5?

OnePlus is preparing to introduce its inaugural foldable phone, set to make its debut on August 29, as we exclusively revealed which is later confirmed by insider Max Jambor. This global release will position OnePlus Fold aka OnePlus Open device as a direct competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold5. Let’s explore how OnePlus’s entry into the fast-growing foldable devices market could challenge Samsung’s dominance.

Similar Design Elements

Samsung Galaxy Fold 5

Both the OnePlus Open and the Galaxy Z Fold5 will feature an inward folding design, a top-centered punch-hole cut-out on the cover, and a side-facing fingerprint sensor. While the Fold5 achieves an all-screen appearance through an under-display camera, the OnePlus model will incorporate a left-aligned cut-out. Both devices will boast an aluminum casing, safeguarded by Corning’s Gorilla Glass protection. Moreover, the Fold5 will offer an IPX8 water resistance rating.

OnePlus Fold aka OnePlus Open

Immersive 120Hz Displays

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 display

Expectations suggest that the OnePlus Open will sport a 7.8-inch or 8.0-inch QHD+ AMOLED main display, accompanied by a 6.3-inch or 6.5-inch Full-HD+ AMOLED outer screen, both featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the Fold5 is likely to showcase a 7.6-inch QHD+ AMOLED primary screen and a 6.2-inch Full-HD+ AMOLED external panel. Once again, both devices will support a 120Hz refresh rate.

OnePlus V Fold aka OnePlus Open Display

Impressive Camera Capabilities

The OnePlus Open is rumored to house a 48MP (OIS) main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP (OIS) periscope snapper. On the other hand, the Fold5 is expected to feature a 50MP (OIS) primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10MP (OIS) telephoto lens. The OnePlus model may incorporate 32MP and 20MP cameras for the outer and inner screens, respectively. In contrast, the Fold5 will offer a 12MP external camera and a 4MP under-display camera for the internal display.

Image credit: smartprix.com

Powerful Hardware and Software

Both the OnePlus Open and the Galaxy Z Fold5 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, with a minimum of 256GB storage and up to 16GB RAM. The devices will run Android 13, customized with OxygenOS Fold and One UI custom skins for OnePlus and Samsung, respectively. The OnePlus model is rumored to house a 4,800mAh battery with 67W fast charging, while the Fold5 will likely feature a 4,400mAh battery with 45W wired and 25W wireless charging.

Pricing Considerations

Leaked European pricing indicates that the base configuration of the Fold5 will start at €1,899 (approximately Rs. 1.72 lakh). In comparison, the OnePlus Open is anticipated to be more competitively priced than its Samsung counterpart.

Upcoming Unveiling Dates

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold5 will be officially announced at the Samsung Unpacked event on July 26. Meanwhile, the OnePlus Open is set to make its debut on August 29.

Is it Worth the Wait?

For those considering a flagship foldable phone, it may be worth waiting for the OnePlus Open. Although Samsung has established itself as a leader in UI experience for foldable devices, recent iterations have lacked innovation. In comparison, the OnePlus offering promises more advanced features, including an improved zoom lens, faster charging, and a more affordable price point when compared to the Fold5.