Future developments for Samsung's foldable devices may potentially exclude S Pen support: an overview of the potential implications
In a recent development, Samsung has announced its plans to reintroduce S-Pen compatibility in future foldable models. The South Korean tech giant has been actively researching and developing thinner and innovative technologies for the S-Pen, with the goal of bringing it back once the technology meets their performance standards and there is sufficient consumer demand[2][4].
The latest addition to Samsung's foldable lineup, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, does not support the S-Pen. This design choice was made to prioritise thinness and lightness, as the digitizer layer required for S-Pen input adds thickness to the display[1][3]. However, Samsung's executive director, Kang Min-seok, has emphasised that the company is committed to advancing S-Pen technology.
The new stylus technology being developed by Samsung does not require a separate digitizer and battery, aiming to avoid adding extra bulk[5]. This technology could potentially support features like pressure sensitivity and tilt detection, similar to the Apple Pencil on iPads[6]. Last year, Samsung collaborated with South Korean chip company HiDeep to develop this new stylus technology[7].
While the Galaxy Z Fold 7 does not feature S-Pen support, the device boasts a thickness of 8.9mm when folded and 4.2mm unfolded, demonstrating Samsung's focus on creating slim and light devices[8]. Minimal improvements were made to battery life and charging in the Galaxy Z Fold 7[9].
Himani Jha, a tech news writer at a leading platform, has been contributing to various publications for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, Himani enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants[10]. Her work has been featured in Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech[11].
In conclusion, Samsung's ongoing research and development efforts indicate that the S-Pen compatibility is expected to return in upcoming foldable phones once they resolve the current technical trade-offs. The new stylus technology being developed by Samsung could revolutionise the way we interact with our devices, offering a more intuitive and creative user experience.
The new stylus technology being developed by Samsung, which aims to be thinner and avoid adding extra bulk, could potentially support features like pressure sensitivity and tilt detection, similar to the Apple Pencil on iPads. Samsung's executive director, Kang Min-seok, has emphasised that the company is committed to advancing S-Pen technology, indicating that the S-Pen compatibility may return in upcoming foldable phones once the technology meets their performance standards and there is sufficient consumer demand.
