There’s a finite length and width I can put in a pocket. Foldables are the path to a screen with a length and width larger than that.

The tech still sucks and isn’t worth using, but the concept is very clear.

You gain no reduction in volume or weight, and no increase in usable screen real estate.

Isn’t that just how folding works? You trade off dimensions… a double thick square is much easier for my small hands to grab and stuff in my pocket, compared to a long rectangle

Counterpoint to the counterpoint, I have a Z Flip 4 and I love this thing. Yes, the internal screen is easier to scratch but since the screen is closed when you’re not using it, it’s not really an issue unless you’re Edward Scissorhands. Yes, there is an extra step to using the phone proper but the small outer screen lets me do all of the “need to check my phone real quick” stuff without needing to open it, like checking the time, notifications, weather, timers, and Spotify. Besides the cool factor, though, I have to carry a phone for work in the same pocket and this form factor makes that easier with less risk of scratching either screen. I won’t say it’s for everyone, but it’s perfect for my use case.

Honestly I just miss being able to hang up calls by slamming the thing closed, that’s it. I won’t buy a modern one but that was always satisfying.

I really want to like the folding screen flip phones we have now, but I’d constantly be concerned about scratching the plastic-ish screen