Samsung launched its first-ever Galaxy Z Flip phone back in February 2020. The company then followed it with a 5G variant in July. It appears the tables have turned this year. According to reports coming from Korea, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 will be available with 5G connectivity initially. A lower-priced LTE model will reportedly arrive later.
This shuffle from Samsung is indicative of the fact that 5G adoption has grown worldwide over the past year or so. 5G networks were largely spotty as of early 2020. So the Korean company didn’t bother making the original Galaxy Z Flip 5G-ready at launch. However, as the year progressed, the next-gen wireless networks rolled out in more regions around the world. As such, it launched the Galaxy Z Flip in a 5G model in July so as to not give potential buyers a reason to say nay.
Fast-forward to mid-2021, 5G connectivity is more or less standard on higher-end smartphones. Most newer flagship devices now support the next-gen wireless networks. So it’s no surprise that Samsung will launch the Galaxy Z Flip 3 with 5G connectivity.
However, in some markets like India, 5G networks are not available yet. So Samsung might just offer the Galaxy Z Flip 3 with LTE connectivity in those regions. More so because removing the 5G modems reportedly reduces the price of the phone.
The latest report also reiterates that there will be no Galaxy Z Flip 3 Lite. There have been rumors of Samsung making a lower-cost clamshell foldable smartphone this year. However, recent reports suggest the company has canceled it.
Apparently, the Korean firm decided against making a Galaxy Z Flip 3 Lite just before it began the mass production of the new foldables. The device was reportedly in plans during the development stage. Perhaps the ongoing global semiconductor chip shortage forced the company to cancel it, we’ll never know.
Galaxy Z Flip 3 could launch on August 11, alongside several other Galaxies
The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is just one of several Galaxy devices expected to break cover during Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked event, which could take place on August 11. We are looking forward to seeing the Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch Active 4, and the Galaxy Buds 2 at the mega event.
Recent reports suggest Samsung’s upcoming foldables will go on sale in late August, with some reports claiming an August 27 date. It now remains to be seen when the Galaxy Z Flip 3 LTE will arrive in the market.