Should I buy a foldable phone?

Foldable phones have become more popular in recent years, with more models popping up from time to time and the technology constantly improving – but should you buy a foldable phone?

That's what we're getting to the bottom of in this article. The idea of combining phone-style portability with an unfolding tablet-size screen is particularly attractive if you want a bigger display to watch content on, draw or browse the web with. A flip-style foldable that folds like a classic flip phone is also worth keeping in mind if you crave exceptional portability and desire a bit of a retro throwback.

With foldables on the rise and a lot of people curious about phones that fold, we're keen to answer some of your burning questions and discuss if a foldable is right for you. Let's jump into it.

What is a foldable phone?

A foldable phone is essentially what it says on the tin – a phone that folds. This involves having a flexible inner screen that can bend to be closed or fully opened, allowing it to be more compact when you need a smaller device and offer a larger screen when you want to view media.

A foldable phone can take a couple of different forms, typically being either a flip-style foldable, folding vertically like a classic flip phone, or book-style, folding like a book horizontally.

Foldable phones don't operate much differently from standard phones, apart from the ability to fold and unfold. They'll typically run the same apps, just with dimensions to cater for different screen sizes.

How does a foldable phone work?

A foldable phone works by offering two screen experiences – one on the outside, otherwise referred to as a 'back' or 'cover' display, and the screen when unfolded (the 'unfolded' display).

Simply put, you'd use the 'cover' display when you're on the go and don't need large screen space, such as when you're responding to texts, taking a quick photo or just casually scrolling social media. When you feel the need for a bigger screen, such as if you're drawing, watching a movie or TV show, or wanting to show something to somebody on a larger display, then you may elect to 'unfold' the device and use the internal screen.

The internal display of a foldable phone is typically quite bendable and is supported by a specialised hinge, allowing for a firm and reliable unfolding motion. The software, and the 'operating system' at large, is built to be adaptable across both screens, allowing for seamless use no matter if you're folded or unfolded.

Things to consider when getting a foldable phone

A book-style foldable phone is worth considering if you want a compact phone with dimensions similar to a standard smartphone, but with the ability to unfold and offer a bigger screen when you need to get the bigger picture – such as when watching movies or drawing.

A flip-style foldable is worth considering if you desire a smartphone with a particularly compact form factor, or if you're craving a bit of style akin to a classic flip phone.

Which phone is foldable?

Foldable phones often have suffix titles in their names, such as 'flip' or 'fold', though there are some exceptions to this. These are the foldable phones that, at the time of writing, Optus stocks:

• iPhone Duo
• Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8
• Motorola Razr 50
• Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

The bottom line: Should I buy a foldable phone?

A foldable phone is worth considering the next time you go shopping for a new smartphone, especially if you're craving a larger display and desire the tablet-like experience from a book-style foldable.

A flip phone-style foldable is also worth keeping in mind when you shop for a new smartphone if you want a compact phone that slips easily into your pocket or handbag, or if you're craving greater style from your smartphone that harks back to classic flip phones from the 2000s.