Are seven-inch smartphones really a good idea? our readers weigh in

The growing trend of larger smartphone displays

For several years now, a roughly six-inch display size has become the norm in the smartphone world. From Apple to Google and Samsung, most major manufacturers have embraced this standard. However, it appears this trend might be about to shift, with reports emerging that companies are exploring devices with displays exceeding seven inches in size. But will this be a welcome change, or a step too far?

The user concerns: handling and pocketability

We recently posed the question to our readers: “Would you be happy with a seven-inch smartphone display?” The response was overwhelmingly negative. Over 47% of the 4,828 votes expressed concern that larger displays would make phones difficult to handle. As someone who uses a Pixel 7 daily, I wholeheartedly agree. Even a 6.3-inch screen can be a stretch for comfortable one-handed use. Imagine navigating a seven-inch device – it seems practically impossible.

Beyond handling: the impact on portability

Beyond usability, a significant concern is the impact on portability. Larger displays inevitably lead to bulkier devices. This means smartphones will protrude more from pockets, making them less convenient to carry, particularly during activities like workouts or travel. The increased size simply adds an extra layer of inconvenience to everyday life.

The price factor: will bigger mean more expensive?

Larger displays aren't just about physical size; they also have implications for cost. Global component shortages have already driven up the price of electronics. A larger LED panel required for a seven-inch screen would undoubtedly add to the overall manufacturing cost, potentially making these devices significantly more expensive for consumers. A combination of increased size and higher costs is a worrying prospect.

Blurring the lines: phones vs. tablets

The move towards larger displays risks blurring the lines between smartphones, phablets (larger phones), and tablets. Companies like Samsung already offer “Plus” variants with slightly larger screens. If standard models reach seven inches, the distinction between a phone and a phablet diminishes. And if “Plus” models then venture into eight or nine-inch territory, differentiating them from smaller tablets becomes increasingly difficult.

The battery benefit: a potential upside

While the majority of our readers expressed reservations, a significant 33% did express some enthusiasm for bigger displays. The primary reason? Battery life. Larger phones often house larger batteries. Devices like the Honor Power 2, sporting a massive 10,000 mAh battery, exemplify this trend, boasting a 6.8-inch screen. The adoption of silicon-carbon battery technology, alongside larger displays, could unlock even greater battery capacity in mainstream devices.

The verdict: is a seven-inch display worth it?

Ultimately, beyond the potential for a larger battery, the practical benefits of a seven-inch smartphone display seem limited. While future innovations might change this, for now, it’s hard to see a compelling reason to embrace such a dramatically larger screen size. The concerns surrounding handling, portability, cost, and product differentiation all point to a potentially unpopular trend.