It's hard to believe the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series is now six years old, but my first experiences with the latest shape-shifting smartphone made it clear to me just how far the South Korean giant has come -- and how much more work is needed to reach the promised land of mainstream acceptance.

Also: What you missed at Samsung Unpacked July 2024: Galaxy Z Fold 6, Watch Ultra, Ring, AI, more

I won't bury the lede: This year'sGalaxy Z Fold 6 costs$100 more than last year's model -- meaning it goes from very expensive to very, very expensive. It's made with more durable materials, from the hinge to the outer shell, and is thinner and lighter than ever. A "phone" that feels more like a phone in the hand is always welcome.

Is the camera system finally Ultra tier? Only if you think an improved AI processing algorithm is enough of an upgrade. Also, because it's 2024, Samsung is introducing several new Galaxy AI features to give the foldable form factor a little more purpose. I don't mind that; at a starting price of$1,899, give me anything and everything.

Pre-order the latest Galaxy foldables and save up to$1,500.

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In the hand, the new Galaxy Z Fold 6 feels like the most polished version yet. I've daily driven -- or at least attempted to use often -- every Galaxy Z Fold model since the very first, and the sixth generation is easily Samsung's cr