Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 leak shows a very unwelcome hinge gap

(Image credit: Technizo Concept / Super Roader)

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 could have a substantially large hinge gap compared to the likes of the Google Pixel Fold, going by freshly leaked images.

The alleged images, published by Leakspinner on SlashLeaks, appear to show the Galaxy Z Flip 5 open in various positions. Accompanying the photos is a video in which the expected device is rotated to reveal what looks to be a sizable "tear-shaped" gap between the two sides of the folded panel, suggesting the phone uses a larger hinge than the Galaxy Z Flip 4 from last year.

Folded Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 — (Image credit: Leakspinner / SlashLeaks)

Samsung may be excused for over-manufacturing the hinge mechanism after the problems it had with the original Samsung Galaxy Fold, its first foldable device, which reviewers literally unpicked due to a flawed design. The device was ultimately delayed due to a high failure rate amongst the review units, and a new hinge system was developed.

Features already leaked can also be seen in the photos and video. That includes a larger front screen, but otherwise similar inner screen size, overall dimensions, and camera setup to the Galaxy Z Flip 4. The leaks also showed the Galaxy Z Flip 5 in a white color, one of five options that have been rumored.

Tent view of leaked Galaxy z Flip 5 — (Image credit: Leakspinner / SlashLeaks)

Competition from rival brands will put pressure on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, compared to the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip 4. Two big challengers include the Oppo Find N2 Flip and Motorola Razr, both of which boast a hinge that can close without any gap.

Back view of leaked Galaxy z Flip 5 — (Image credit: Leakspinner / SlashLeaks)

We will find out the accuracy of these leaks during Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event on Wednesday, July 26, where Samsung is expected to unveil its rumored Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip devices from Seoul.

Along with the flagship foldables, Samsung is rumoured to be announcing a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, an affordable version of this year's non-folding flagship device, as well as a new Galaxy Watch 6, and a line of Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets. Pre-orders are already open for the new Z Fold and Z Flip on Samsung's website and app, and can net you $50 off the price if you make a reservation.

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Elliot MulleyGoodbarne is a Staff Writer at Tom’s Guide covering news, reviews, buying guides with wit and charm. He has had a keen interest in mobile, tablets, laptops, and everything in between since his first phone, the Samsung U600. Starting at Mobile News, Elliot has been writing about mobile and the business of technology since 2016, and has edited four trade magazines in that time, attending award shows for three of them. He has attended a range of industry events including 5G launches, device announcements, and trade events, where he developed a nose for picking up on trends, interviewing executives, and networking with the tech community. In his spare time, Elliot can usually be found watching, playing, or attending sporting events. With season tickets to West Ham United and Surrey County Cricket Club he often spends weekends in winter in a foul mood and evenings in the summer with a smile on his face. Outside of sport Elliot enjoys cooking, pubs next to rivers, and chilling out with a G&T, Whiskey, or Port after a solid week of excellence.