The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, the next iteration of Samsung’s popular foldable flip phone, is rumored to retain the same camera hardware as its predecessor, the Z Flip 6. Leaks suggest the Z Flip 7 will feature a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP selfie camera, mirroring the Z Flip 6’s configuration.
While the lack of hardware changes might seem disappointing, Samsung appears to be focusing on software enhancements to boost the Z Flip 7’s camera performance. Reports indicate the device may incorporate the S25’s ProVisual Engine, or a modified version, offering AI-powered tools for photo editing and enhancement. This software could significantly improve image quality, transforming even subpar shots into impressive visuals.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, partway open, looking at it from the side.
The choice of processor for the Z Flip 7 could also influence camera performance. While some rumors point to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, others suggest Samsung might opt for an Exynos processor. This has sparked debate, reminiscent of the discussions surrounding the Galaxy S25’s processor. Historically, Exynos chips have faced criticism for their impact on image quality, particularly in low-light conditions and video recording.
In daylight, photos taken with Exynos and Qualcomm processors are generally comparable, with only minor differences. However, Qualcomm chips tend to excel in low-light scenarios and video capture. Comparisons between Galaxy S21 models with Exynos and Qualcomm processors highlight these differences, showcasing Qualcomm’s superior performance in challenging lighting conditions.
Samsung has often released phones with different processors depending on the region, with European markets typically receiving Exynos versions and the U.S. getting Qualcomm variants. These decisions are often driven by hardware requirements, such as modem compatibility. Given the Exynos’s past performance issues, Samsung is likely working to improve its reputation, as seen with devices like the Galaxy A55. This is crucial, especially for a key device like the Z Flip 7, where camera performance is a significant selling point.
Samsung’s strategy of prioritizing software enhancements over hardware upgrades for the Z Flip 7’s camera could be a gamble. While software improvements can certainly enhance image quality, the underlying hardware still plays a vital role. The final verdict on the Z Flip 7’s camera performance will depend on how effectively Samsung integrates its software with the chosen processor.
