Although it's not massively different to its predecessor, Samsung still continues to deliver the most complete foldable experience on the market. Any foldable inevitably comes with its share of issues - here screen reflections and creases - but for sheer show-off factor the Z Fold 3's uninterrupted view, thanks to its under panel camera (UPC), is a marvel of what modern technology can deliver.

Big screen makes for most impressive looking foldable on the market; Under panel camera makes for clean screen appeal; Plenty of power and sturdy software;

Largely similar to predecessor; Still a pricey bit of kit (but it is cheaper than predecessor); Screen coating is unavoidably reflective and ongoing 'crease' issues remain;

Samsung launched two new phones, one foldable and one flip-phone, but delayed the launch of the Note 21 ‘phablet’ at its Unpacked event.

While the cameras around the back are nothing new, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 showcases plenty of world firsts, not least of all that under-display selfie camera which we haven’t seen on any mainstream smartphone before.

Feels solid and premium, IPX8 water-resistant, Added pen support

Pen support for inner screen only, No new camera hardware, Expensive given camera specs

Much tougher than past versions; Powerful performance; Bright, punch main screen that’s great for gaming;

Apps still don’t always display correctly;

Can you believe we’re about to give you our first impressions of Samsung’s third folding flagship? It seems like only yesterday that our minds were being blown by the original model, way back in early 2019. And yet, here we are, with the shiny new Galaxy Z Fold 3 in our hands.

There’s plenty to love about the Galaxy Fold 3. It’s incredibly well-built with good looks to match, and its screens are things of visual – not to mention, engineering – beauty. The promise of S Pen and multitasking tricks, coupled with more powerful innards, point towards a blisteringly fast flagship experience. For a device that costs £1,599, you’d certainly hope so. Having said that, we’re a little sad to see no forward progress in the camera department, making this seem like less of an upgrade for Z Fold 2 owners. That said, the Z Fold 3 is launching at a price £200 cheaper than its predecessor. We’re looking forward to properly adopting the Z Fold 3 and pushing it to its limits. We’ll see you back here for our final definitive review, very soon.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the first foldable phone that we recommend to people who normally call themselves early adopters but held out on last year's Fold 2. These fence-sitters will be swayed by its S Pen support, greater durability and water-resistance in an otherwise familiar-looking...

S Pen support – finally, More durable design, Slightly cheaper than Fold 2

Still very expensive, Cameras could be better, No front screen S pen support

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the first foldable phone that we recommend to people who normally call themselves early adopters but held out on last year's Fold 2. These fence-sitters will be swayed by its S Pen support, greater durability and water-resistance in an otherwise familiar-looking foldable with unchanged cameras. It’s still expensive, but starts at a slightly lower price than its predecessors, meaning it's ideal for early adopters who have been waiting on the sidelines.

S Pen support – finally; More durable design; Slightly cheaper than Fold 2;

Still very expensive; Cameras could be better; No front screen S pen support