Your next laptop could be a foldable phone | The Vergecast

Quick Overview

Senior reviewer Allison Johnson successfully used a Samsung ZFold 7 foldable phone as a primary computer replacement for straightforward tasks, discovering that the utility comes from having a much better keyboard for faster typing on the larger inner screen, rather than complex multitasking or new operating system features, although limitations imposed by Android apps, especially Google Docs, prevent it from fully replacing a dedicated laptop for complex workflows like image manipulation.

Key Points: Allison Johnson conducted an earnest experiment using the Samsung ZFold 7 as a computer, finding success for tasks like writing in WordPress and Google Docs when leaving the house without a laptop. Johnson preferred the ZFold 7 over the Pixel Fold because it felt like a 'normal phone' in terms of size and weight, offering 'all upside' by providing a larger inner screen without significant bulk. The essential setup for the 'purse computer' involved pairing the foldable with a portable keyboard, ultimately settling on the Logitech Keys to Go, which provided surprising typing speed despite its slim, membrane-like keys. The core utility realized was the ability to type much more quickly and efficiently than using thumbs on a standard phone screen, changing the mindset for on-the-go productivity. The experiment faced significant limitations when dealing with image manipulation (like background cutouts) and the frustrating behavior of the Google Docs Android app, which constantly prompts to open the app instead of using the superior web browser version. Johnson remains comfortable leaving her MacBook at home for weekend trips where her needs are basic communication and writing, indicating the foldable setup covers the 'minimum viable product' for their job requirements. Jacob Feldman discussed the state of sports streaming, noting the Winter Olympics streaming on Peacock was a success due to offering '400 streams' and 'choose your own adventure' options, including multi-view.