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The Samsung Galaxy Fold is a very unique smartphone, in more ways than one.
The most obvious differentiator is that it folds out to expose a large, continuous 7.3″ display, hiding the seam thanks to a flexible OLED screen.
It also at the very top end of the smartphone market price-wise, which could explain why it only debuted in a few limited markets at launch.
Samsung says that customer interest has helped expand that initial pool of availability, however, which is why it launching pre-orders in Canada today.
There going to be some sticker shock for Canadians, however: The Fold starts at $2,599.99 CAD in its newest market.
That the price you&d pay for a well-specced computer, but it actually right in line with the price of the phone in the U.S.
when you account for currency conversion.
Pre-orders are also going to be exclusively in-store, at Samsung Eaton Center, Sherway Gardens and Yorkdale locations, all of which are in Toronto.
Retail sales, also exclusive to Samsung own retail operations, are starting December 6 but pre-order customers will be able to ensure a day one pickup.
Samsung Galaxy Fold has had a bit of an uneven launch, with a first attempt cancelled in light of multiple reviewers experiencing issues with their devices.
Samsung re-designed elements of the phone as a result, including adding caps to prevent dust entering the crucial hinge component that powers the folding actions, and embedding a necessary pre-installed protective screen covering under the phone bezels.
Still, our own Brian Heater experienced a display hardware issue within a day with his redesigned review device.
Samsung is offering free &Fold Premiere Service& which includes discounted screen replacements and standard free repairs when an issue is not due to any misuse on a user part.
Overall, the takeaway should be that this is a first-generation device, but also a totally unique piece of technology in today marketplace for those willing to risk it.
