Samsung will reportedly not integrate a built-in S Pen slot into its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3. This is apparently due to the various design issues it presents, but prospective buyers could view the move as an inconvenience. Samsung is planning to expand S Pen support to more of its future product lineup.
Samsung's integration of its S Pen beyond tablets for smartphones is a differentiating factor for the devices like the Galaxy S21 Ultra. Despite last year's Galaxy Z Fold 2 having the ability to expand into a device as big as a tablet, though, it didn't come with any S Pen support whatsoever. However, rumors suggest that this could be set to change, with the Galaxy Z Fold 3 expected to be the first folding phone with S Pen support.
While it makes sense for a phone capable of transforming into a tablet to be used with a stylus, housing the accessory inside the Galaxy Z Fold 3 has proved to be problematic for Samsung, according to Naver. One of the issues is said to be a lack of space for the phone's internal parts, while another is that creating a slot for the S Pen could compromise its IP rating, with Samsung reportedly planning to make its next foldable phone water-resistant. Instead, Samsung will apparently provide a case that holds the S Pen.
Is No S Pen Slot In The Galaxy Z Fold A Deal-Breaker?
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 2 had a tough reinforced glass exterior but it was not waterproof. With the Galaxy Z Fold 3 intended to change that by being more watertight and dust resistant, its lack of an S Pen holder could be a reasonable compromise. Carrying an expensive phone covered by a protective case makes a lot of sense anyway, so if Samsung provides one that can house its S Pen and guard the handset itself at the same time, then that effectively solves this dilemma.
However, that doesn't mean omitting the S Pen slot from the phone altogether makes things any less inconvenient. Given that a new Galaxy Note might not be coming any time soon, it's likely that consumers would be looking at the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3 as an alternative. The thing is, not having the conveniences of utilizing and housing the S Pen the same way the Galaxy Note does not make Samsung's next folding phone a better replacement, especially when it costs way more. Of course, if the Naver report is to be believed, then production won't be starting until June, meaning there's still time for Samsung to perhaps find a way to find a better solution.
Source: Naver