Android 17’s new foldable gaming mode could make flippy phones more fun

Live updates

1. -3007s ago

   Android 17's foldable gaming mode may boost flip phone appeal

   Google's Android 17 introduces a gaming mode for foldable devices, splitting the screen to mimic a Nintendo DS. Samsung's future foldables, including a possible 2027 Galaxy Z TriFold, may excite screen enthusiasts. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series has also gained a useful feature. Flip phones may see renewed interest.

   What's confirmed:

   • Samsung has reportedly started developing its second-generation Galaxy Z TriFold with a near-10-inch OLED.
   • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series has a feature that remembers how you like each screen rotated.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Apple is preparing its own foldable iPhone device with a rumored size similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8.
   • The Galaxy Z TriFold may launch alongside the Galaxy Z9 series in 2027.
   • Samsung's Z Flip could be the first casualty of its own unorthodox form factor.
   confidence 50%
2. 29d ago

   Android 17 Introduces Foldable Gaming Mode

   Google is introducing a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices in Android 17. The feature splits the inner display to create a virtual controller on the bottom half while the game runs on the top. This design aims to mimic the experience of a Nintendo DS handheld.

   What's confirmed:

   • Android 17 features a dedicated gaming mode for foldable phones.
   • The mode splits the screen into a gameplay zone and a virtual controller zone.
   • The lower half of the inner display serves as a virtual gamepad while the upper screen displays the game.
   • The layout is designed to make foldables feel like Nintendo DS style handhelds.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • The feature will work with all games supporting controller input.
   confidence 90%