Tech Desk 
Jul 31, 2024
Samsung has been marketing its latest Galaxy Z Flip 6 as a dream device for Gen Z photoshoots, but recent developments have taken the campaign in an unexpected direction.
Recent reports reveal that the Z Flip has been repurposed as a policing tool in two police departments in Missouri. As part of a pilot programme, Samsung has teamed up with bodycam solutions company Visual Labs to provide these departments with modified Z Flips, aimed at "Helping Police Authorities Protect the Public’s Safety."
The modified Z Flips have had their volume buttons remapped to function as an emergency bodycam record button. Additionally, the devices begin recording footage when they detect a pursuit or, if paired with a dashcam, when the emergency lights are activated.
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Samsung’s Newsroom has highlighted that the Galaxy Z Flip series is well-suited as a body camera due to its compact and foldable form factor, which allows for easy attachment to police uniforms and outer carriers.
This is the first instance of a foldable phone being used for policing purposes. Samsung is confident in the functionality of this project, stating, “In their use as body-worn cameras, Galaxy Z Flip devices can help improve evidence gathering and transparency by clearly documenting details of arrests and other interactions.”
Samsung adds: “The solutions are now being extended to 25 metro police departments across five states, furthering Samsung’s commitment to providing tools that enhance the effectiveness of police authorities in the US.”
