Samsung just dropped something that could change the foldable game forever. For the first time, Samsung has started selling certified refurbished Galaxy Z series foldable phones under their 'Certified Re-Newed' program. We're talking about the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 at prices that'll make your wallet breathe a sigh of relief. These phones come with one year warranty as well, and they're available right now in the USA from Samsung's online store.
Here's what makes this announcement so significant for Samsung's ambitious foldable strategy: refurbished products are more sustainable and up to 40% cheaper compared to a new device. The Galaxy Z Flip 5 starts at $650 for the 256GB version and $700 for the 512GB version, while the Galaxy Z Fold 5 is priced at $1,169 for the 256GB version and $1,219 for the 512GB version. When you consider that the Z Flip5 was launched on August 11, 2023 for $999, these refurbished prices represent substantial savings that directly support Samsung's goal to make foldables more accessible.
What makes Samsung's Certified Re-Newed program different?
This isn't your typical third-party refurbished phone situation. Phones sold under Samsung's Certified Re-Newed program are serviced by Samsung specialists and have 100% genuine spare parts. Every single device gets the full treatment: Samsung says that under this program every device is inspected by their own specialists, repaired if necessary with 100% genuine Samsung parts, and fitted with a certified new battery.
The quality control here goes beyond what you'd expect from typical refurbished programs. They come with a certified new battery, one-year warranty, and an option of buying a Samsung Care+ plan for additional protection. Each phone comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty, ensuring buyers have the same after-sales support they'd expect with a new device. Plus, if you have an existing phone, you can trade it in to get some trade-in discount and reduce the burden on your wallet.
The certified new battery is particularly crucial for foldables, since these devices work their batteries harder than traditional smartphones due to the dual displays and complex folding mechanisms. This comprehensive restoration process ensures you're getting the full flagship experience without the flagship price tag.
Why this matters for the foldable market
Let's break down why Samsung's move is such a big deal for their broader foldable strategy. Foldables have traditionally carried a high entry price, which has been a hurdle for customers curious about the technology but hesitant to invest over $1,000 on a first try. The Certified Re-Newed program was created to give buyers a more affordable way to own a premium Samsung phone while maintaining the reassurance of manufacturer quality.
Consider the broader context: Samsung plans to make foldables 50% of its mobile product mix by 2025. Samsung's mobile chief TM Roh said previously that the company is, "trying to make a leap in our price positioning." This refurbished program represents a concrete step toward that goal, directly addressing the pricing barrier that has kept many potential users on the sidelines.
The timing couldn't be better either. With foldables now hitting their stride in terms of durability and software optimization, this program creates an entry-level foldable tier without Samsung having to engineer budget-compromised hardware. It's a brilliant strategy that accelerates adoption while maintaining quality standards.
What you're actually getting for your money
Both devices represent serious flagship technology at these reduced prices. The Galaxy Z Flip 5 has a 6.7″ dynamic AMOLED display and features dual 12MP cameras that deliver impressive photo quality for social sharing and creative content. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 takes productivity to another level with two displays: a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X cover screen with a resolution of 2268 x 832 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X fold-out main screen with a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
The performance credentials justify the flagship designation. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Samsung, has 12GB of RAM and models with between 256GB and 1TB of internal storage. The device has five cameras in total: a 10MP selfie camera on the cover screen, a 4MP camera underneath the main screen, and a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP wide-angle lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. Both devices maintain IPX8 water resistance rating and Samsung's latest durability improvements.
What's particularly noteworthy is that you're getting the same core productivity experience that made these phones flagship devices when they launched. The Z Fold 5's Multi-Window capabilities, seamless app continuity between screens, and tablet-like experience when unfolded remain completely unchanged. The Z Flip 5's innovative cover display functionality and ultra-compact form factor deliver the full premium experience at a significantly reduced investment.
The bottom line on Samsung's refurbished foldables
This represents a smart strategic move that benefits everyone involved. This is a great option if you want to try out Samsung's foldable phones but don't want to shell out as much as $1,100 on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 or $2,000 on the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Customer feedback validates this approach - customers find the refurbished Galaxy Z Fold 5 like new and appreciate its pristine condition, with many reporting that phones arrive in pristine condition, looking and feeling like new.
The market positioning couldn't be more compelling. With the average resale rate of a used Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 5G being $259.75 on the secondary market, Samsung's official refurbished pricing at $650-$700 represents exceptional value for manufacturer-certified quality and warranty support. By bringing the Galaxy Z series into the mix, Samsung is extending its value-oriented option to one of the most expensive categories in its lineup.
For anyone who's been curious about foldables but hesitant about the premium pricing, Samsung just removed the biggest barrier to entry. You get manufacturer quality, full warranty support, and genuine Samsung service – all at prices that make foldable technology accessible to a much broader audience. This isn't just a win for consumers; it's a strategic masterstroke that advances Samsung's aggressive foldable adoption timeline while building customer loyalty through positive first experiences with the technology.
Comments
Be the first, drop a comment!