Are 7-inch phones really a thing? why they might not be a good idea

The rumor mill: mega-phones on the horizon

It seems the tech world is buzzing with speculation. According to leaker Digital Chat Station, several companies are exploring the possibility of 7-inch phones, or even larger! While Chinese brands like Huawei (with the Mate 70 Air) and TCL (with the NxtPaper 60 Ultra) already have models in this size range, the question is whether bigger names like Samsung, Motorola, or even Apple will follow suit. The idea of a 7-inch iPhone XL or Galaxy S26 Ultra Max is certainly intriguing, but is it practical?

The practicality problem: one-handed operation

Let's be honest, a 7-inch phone is simply impractical for everyday use. I recall reviewing the Huawei Mate 20 X (7.2 inches) years ago, and it was a struggle. One-handed operation was virtually impossible, and even fitting it in a pocket proved to be a challenge. The rise of foldable phones was, in part, a response to this issue – providing large screens in a more manageable form factor.

Why choose a foldable over a giant slab?

While foldables aren’t without their drawbacks (cost and perceived fragility), they offer a more sensible solution than a traditional 7-inch phone. Models like the Honor Magic V3, Galaxy Z Fold series, and Huawei Mate X provide a large viewing area that can be folded for portability. The price point of these foldables is also becoming more competitive, potentially rivaling a future 7-inch iPhone XL.

Durability concerns: bigger screen, bigger risk

The larger the screen, the greater the risk of damage. While foldables offer some inherent protection when folded, a 7-inch