Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 has made a grand entrance with a host of improvements, but one fan favorite feature has been left by the wayside. The sleek new design and enhanced camera capabilities of the Fold 7 come at a price—the sacrifice of S Pen compatibility.
The Fold 7’s slimline profile, measuring a mere 8.9mm when closed, marks a significant reduction compared to its predecessor. This design evolution puts Samsung in direct competition with other leading foldable devices like the Honor Magic V5, signaling a shift towards a more streamlined form factor.
Despite the allure of a revamped camera system borrowing from the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, the removal of S Pen support was a necessary trade-off. By eliminating the digitizer layer required for S Pen functionality, Samsung managed to optimize internal space and production costs, maintaining the device’s price point amidst economic uncertainties.
The absence of S Pen compatibility may disappoint some users, echoing past instances where features were stripped away rather than added. However, the decision appears rational when viewed in light of addressing the Fold series’ unwieldiness for everyday use. While the S Pen’s departure may be lamented, it seems Samsung’s market research pointed to its limited usage among Fold owners.
Although the potential for integrating the S Pen as a bundled accessory remains unexplored, the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s focus on refining its core functionalities indicates a strategic shift towards enhancing user experience. While bidding adieu to the S Pen may evoke mixed feelings, it underscores Samsung’s commitment to refining its foldable offerings for a more seamless user experience.