10 Best Foldable Phones in 2026

We picked the 10 best foldable phones in 2026 covering book-style flagships, compact clamshells, and renewed options to help you find your next folding phone.

Foldable phones have crossed a threshold. The early crease anxiety, hinge wobble, and compromised cameras that defined the first generation are mostly gone. In 2026, you can buy a folding phone that genuinely replaces both a slab and a small tablet, or one that transforms your pocket into a tiny stand-alone camera. But the market now has more options than you might expect — and not all of them are worth the space in your pocket. The best foldable phones this year come in two distinct shapes: book-style devices that unfold into a large tablet, and clamshells that fold into a compact square. Within those categories, choices range from flagship all-stars to capable renewed models that let you avoid the biggest spend. We’ve sorted through the current crop to find the best foldable phones for every kind of buyer.

TL;DR: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is the best overall book-style foldable with its slimmer build, 200MP camera, and 8-inch inner screen. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold takes the lead on camera processing and AI integration. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is the top clamshell for those who want a compact phone with a big foldable experience. For a budget entry, the renewed Motorola Moto Razr 40 gets you a foldable for less.

# Product Storage Display Camera Best for
1 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (512GB, JetBlack) 512GB 8" inner, 120Hz, + cover screen 200MP main + ultrawide + telephoto The person who wants the ultimate book-style foldable with a pro-grade camera
2 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (256GB, Blue Shadow) 256GB Same as above Same as above The user who wants the Z Fold7 experience with less storage
3 Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold (256GB, Moonstone) 256GB 8" Super Actua Flex, 120Hz Triple rear camera (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) with Gemini AI The photography-focused user who values Google’s computational photography
4 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, Silver Shadow, Renewed) 256GB 7.6" Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 10MP telephoto The savvy shopper who wants a refined foldable at a lower entry point
5 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (512GB, Icy Blue, Renewed) 512GB 7.6" Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 10MP telephoto The buyer who prioritizes storage capacity in a previous-gen foldable
6 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (512GB, Phantom Black, Renewed) 512GB Same as above Same as above The person who wants the same Z Fold 5 hardware in a classic black finish
7 Google Pixel Fold (512GB, Obsidian) 512GB 7.6" inner, 120Hz, + cover screen Dual rear camera (wide, ultrawide) + telephoto The Pixel ecosystem fan who wants the original, thin foldable with Google’s software polish
8 Google Pixel Fold (256GB, Obsidian) 256GB Same as above Same as above The user who wants the same Pixel Fold experience with standard storage
9 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE (256GB, Black) 256GB 6.7" inner, 120Hz, + cover screen 50MP main The clamshell seeker who wants Samsung’s latest compact foldable with AI features
10 Motorola Moto Razr 40 (128GB, Sage Green, Renewed) 128GB 6.9" FHD+ pOLED, + 1.5" external 64MP + 13MP ultrawide The budget-conscious user who wants a foldable phone for the essentials

How we picked

We looked at every major foldable phone currently available and selected the ones that deliver where it actually matters. Here are the factors we considered:

  • Hinge durability and feel. A hinge that feels loose or has too much play is a dealbreaker. We looked for hinges that lock open firmly and close flat without a gap.
  • Cover screen usability. The outside screen has to be functional for quick tasks without opening the phone. Too narrow (like early Z Folds) or too small (some clamshells) and you lose the point.
  • Camera capability. Foldable cameras often lag behind slab flagships. We prioritized phones that close that gap, especially in low light and zoom.
  • Software multitasking. Split-screen, drag-and-drop, and app continuity when unfolding matter more here than on any other phone. One UI and Pixel’s approach both have strengths.
  • Water and dust resistance. IP rating is a practical necessity. An IPX8 rating gives confidence for rain or spills; an IP68 rating adds dust protection.
  • Battery life for the unfolded screen. Running a large 7.6- to 8-inch display eats power. We preferred phones that can survive a full day of mixed use without anxiety.

1. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (512GB, JetBlack): Best Overall Book-Style Foldable

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 in JetBlack

Pros

  • Slimmer and lighter than the Z Fold6, yet still feels premium
  • 200MP camera is a leap for foldable photography
  • 8-inch inner screen is genuinely useful for multitasking
  • Expanded cover screen feels like a normal phone when folded
  • Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and long battery life

Cons

  • Still heavier than a standard slab phone like the Galaxy S25 Ultra
  • The crease is visible, though less pronounced than previous generations
  • 512GB may be overkill for some; 256GB variant is also available

Best for: The buyer who wants the most capable book-style foldable phone with a top-tier camera and the latest processor.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is the most refined foldable Samsung has ever made. It's wider when closed than the Z Fold6, which means the cover screen no longer feels like a remote control. You can actually type on it comfortably. When opened, the 8-inch display gives you room for three windows at once, and Samsung's One UI handles app continuity gracefully — a map on the cover screen smoothly expands to full size when you unfold.

The camera is the headline. Samsung finally put a 200MP sensor in a fold, and the results are noticeably better than the 50MP sensors on previous Folds. The Pro-Visual Engine handles processing well, and while it's not quite at the level of the Galaxy S25 Ultra's camera system, it's close enough that most people won't miss the difference. The 8-inch screen makes reviewing photos a pleasure.

The build quality is excellent. The Armor Aluminum frame feels solid, and the Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the display resists scratches well. IPX8 water resistance is present, though dust resistance remains a weak point (IP48). Battery life easily gets through a full day with moderate use, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor keeps everything smooth. If you want the best book-style foldable in 2026, this is it.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (256GB, Blue Shadow): Same Flagship, Less Storage

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 in Blue Shadow

Pros

  • Identical hardware and camera as the 512GB model
  • Blue Shadow is a unique, subtle color
  • All the same strengths: 200MP camera, 8" screen, slim design

Cons

  • 256GB storage may fill up quickly for users who shoot lots of 200MP photos or 4K video
  • Same weight and crease as its sibling

Best for: Someone who wants all of the Z Fold7's capabilities but doesn't need a huge local media library.

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This is the same Z Fold7 hardware, just in a different color (Blue Shadow) and with 256GB of storage instead of 512GB. The performance, camera, display, and build are identical. For many users, 256GB is plenty — apps, photos, and even some offline video will fit without stress. But if you plan to keep this phone for several years and shoot a lot of high-resolution video, you might appreciate the 512GB version. The Blue Shadow finish is darker than the JetBlack, with a slight blue tint that's more noticeable under direct light. It's a refined look. If you don't need the extra storage, this variant gives you everything that makes the Z Fold7 great.

3. Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold (256GB, Moonstone): Best Camera and AI on a Fold

Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold in Moonstone

Pros

  • Google's computational photography is best-in-class for foldables
  • 8-inch Super Actua Flex display is bright and vibrant
  • Durable gearless hinge rated for about 10 years of folding
  • IP68 water and dust resistance (rare for foldables)
  • Gemini AI features deeply integrated

Cons

  • Only 256GB storage; no higher capacity option
  • Processor tensor chip is capable but not as raw-performing as Snapdragon 8 Elite
  • Heavier than the Z Fold7

Best for: The photography enthusiast who wants Google's smart camera processing and AI features in a foldable.

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The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is Google's second attempt at a book-style foldable, and it corrects nearly every shortcoming of the original. The display is an 8-inch Super Actua Flex panel that gets incredibly bright — over 2,000 nits peak — making it usable under direct sun. The hinge uses a gearless design that feels smoother than Samsung's, and Google claims it's rated for about ten years of folding.

The camera system is where this phone truly shines. Google's triple rear camera setup includes a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens, and the image processing — powered by the Tensor chip and Google's AI — delivers photos that often look more natural and detailed than the Z Fold7's 200MP output, especially in challenging light. The "Hands-Free Video" feature uses the unfolded screen as a viewfinder while the phone stands on its own, which is genuinely useful for vloggers or video calls.

Gemini AI is woven throughout the software. It can help compose messages, summarize web pages, and power real-time translation. The battery lasts comfortably over a day, and the IP68 rating gives peace of mind that the original Pixel Fold's IPX8 didn't. If camera quality is your top priority in a foldable, this is the one to get.

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, Silver Shadow, Renewed): Last Year's Flagship at a Lower Cost

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 in Silver Shadow, Renewed

Pros

  • 7.6-inch 120Hz inner display is still excellent
  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is plenty fast for any task
  • S Pen Fold Edition support
  • Renewed condition makes it a more accessible option
  • Galaxy AI features like Note Assist and live translation

Cons

  • Cover screen is narrower than the Z Fold7 (less comfortable for typing)
  • Camera is the same 50MP setup as the Z Fold5, not upgraded
  • No IP68; only IPX8 water resistance
  • Renewed: previous ownership, possible minor cosmetic wear

Best for: The bargain-minded buyer who wants a premium foldable experience without the flagship price.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 was a significant iterative upgrade over the Fold 5, and in renewed form it offers most of what you get in the Z Fold7 for less. The 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is bright and smooth at 120Hz. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip handles everything from intensive gaming to AI photo editing without stutter. The 50MP main camera is solid, though not the standout you'll find on the Z Fold7.

The biggest compromise is the cover screen. It's narrower and taller than the Z Fold7's, making typing and browsing feel cramped. You'll find yourself unfolding the phone more often just to avoid the awkward cover screen. That might be fine if you plan to use the inner screen most of the time. The S Pen Fold Edition support is a nice inclusion for note-taking. Battery life is good but not outstanding — expect a full day with moderate use. As a renewed device, you get the same core experience at a lower entry point, which makes the Z Fold 6 a smart pick for anyone who wants a foldable without stretching their resources.

5. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (512GB, Icy Blue, Renewed): Proven Reliable Book-Style Fold

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 in Icy Blue, Renewed

Pros

  • 512GB storage is generous
  • IPX8 water resistance
  • Slim design, especially for its time
  • One UI software with multi-window capabilities
  • Reliable hinge that holds up well

Cons

  • 7.6-inch display has a visible crease
  • Camera system is a year behind the Fold 6 and two behind the Fold7
  • Renewed: may have minor cosmetic imperfections
  • No S Pen slot (requires separate case)

Best for: The user who wants a spacious 512GB foldable and doesn't need the absolute latest camera or processor.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 marked the point where Samsung's foldable formula became genuinely mature. The hinge folds flat without a gap, the IPX8 rating means rain or splashes aren't a worry, and the 50MP main camera still takes excellent photos in good light. The 512GB storage is a real differentiator — you can load up on games, movies, and high-res photos without thinking about space.

Compared to the Fold 6 and Fold7, the Fold 5's processor (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2) is older but still performs well for everyday tasks and most games. The camera lacks the telephoto zoom refinement of later models, but the ultrawide and main sensors are capable. The crease is more noticeable than on the Fold7, but after a few days of use, your brain mostly tunes it out. For a renewed unit, this is a solid entry into the book-style foldable world with plenty of storage to grow into.

6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (512GB, Phantom Black, Renewed): The Same Capable Phone in a Classic Color

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 in Phantom Black, Renewed

Pros

  • Phantom Black is a timeless, stealthy finish
  • Identical hardware and performance to the Icy Blue variant
  • 512GB storage for media and apps
  • IPX8 water resistance

Cons

  • Same older camera and crease as the Icy Blue model
  • Renewed condition

Best for: Someone who prefers a black color option and wants the same reliable Z Fold 5 experience.

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This is the exact same Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 hardware as the Icy Blue variant, but in Phantom Black. The performance, camera, storage, and build are identical. If you prefer a black phone that doesn't draw attention, this is the one. The 512GB capacity is the same as the Icy Blue version, so you get ample space. As a renewed phone, it offers the same value proposition. Choose this color if black is your thing.

7. Google Pixel Fold (512GB, Obsidian): The Original Google Foldable

Google Pixel Fold in Obsidian

Pros

  • Thin and pocketable design
  • Tensor G2 chip with excellent AI features
  • Triple rear camera system (wide, ultrawide, telephoto)
  • IPX8 water resistance
  • Clean Pixel software experience

Cons

  • Older Tensor G2 chip; less raw performance than Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
  • 512GB version may be harder to find
  • Hinge is durable but not as smooth as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold
  • Crease is visible

Best for: A Pixel loyalist who wants the original foldable experience with Google's software and camera magic.

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The original Google Pixel Fold was a daring first attempt. It was thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 4 when closed, and the 7.6-inch inner display had a unique 17.4:9 aspect ratio that made it feel more like a mini tablet than a stretched phone. The Tensor G2 chip powers Google's computational photography, which still produces some of the best foldable photos, especially in portrait mode and low light.

The downsides are clear compared to newer foldables. The Tensor G2 is not as fast as the Snapdragon 8 series, especially in gaming. The crease is present and noticeable. The hinge, while durable, doesn't have the smoothness of the gearless design on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Still, for Pixel fans who want a foldable, this 512GB model offers plenty of storage and the clean, bloat-free Android experience that only Google delivers. It's a good choice if you want a foldable and are already invested in the Pixel ecosystem.

8. Google Pixel Fold (256GB, Obsidian): The Same Foldable, Less Storage

Google Pixel Fold 256GB Obsidian

Pros

  • Same great camera system and software as the 512GB version
  • Same thin, pocketable profile
  • IPX8 water resistance
  • Clean Android with guaranteed updates

Cons

  • 256GB storage may be limiting for heavy users
  • Same performance constraints of Tensor G2 chip

Best for: A Pixel fan who wants the original foldable experience but doesn't need maximum local storage.

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This is the same Pixel Fold hardware as the 512GB version but with 256GB of storage. For most people, 256GB is enough for apps, a moderate photo library, and some videos. The camera, display, and software are identical. If you don't see yourself needing to store hundreds of large video files or offline movies, this variant saves you the storage overhead. The phone itself remains a capable foldable with a fantastic camera system and Google's signature clean OS. For anyone who wants to dip a toe into foldables without the highest storage capacity, this is a solid pick.

9. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE (256GB, Black): The Best Clamshell for Compact Foldable Lovers

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE in Black

Pros

  • Compact clamshell design fits easily in any pocket
  • 50MP main camera captures good detail
  • FlexMode allows hands-free photo and video captures
  • Long battery life for a foldable
  • Gemini Live integration on the cover screen

Cons

  • No ultrawide camera (main camera only)
  • Cover screen is small (less functional than book-style cover displays)
  • No telephoto zoom

Best for: Anyone who wants a foldable that's truly pocket-friendly and doesn't need a large inner screen or multiple cameras.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is the most accessible clamshell foldable Samsung offers in 2026. It's small when folded — about the size of a deck of cards — and a full 6.7-inch phone when opened. The 50MP camera is the same sensor used in the Galaxy S24, and it takes excellent photos in good light. FlexMode lets you prop the phone open at any angle using the hinge, which is fantastic for hands-free selfies and video calls.

The cover screen, called FlexWindow, has grown to a useful size for checking notifications, controlling music, and using Gemini quick actions. You can reply to messages with short taps without opening the phone. The trade-off is the lack of an ultrawide or telephoto camera — you get a single 50MP shooter. That's fine for most everyday shots, but you'll miss the versatility of a triple-camera system. Battery life is surprisingly good, easily lasting a full day with moderate use. For clamshell fans, this is the best option from Samsung this year.

10. Motorola Moto Razr 40 (128GB, Sage Green, Renewed): The Budget Clamshell Entry

Motorola Moto Razr 40 in Sage Green

Pros

  • 6.9-inch FHD+ pOLED display is large and vibrant
  • 64MP main camera takes decent photos
  • Unique sage green color
  • Renewed: low-cost way to try a foldable
  • 5G connectivity

Cons

  • Only 128GB storage, may fill quickly
  • Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor is mid-range; not for heavy gaming
  • Small 1.5-inch external display limits cover functionality
  • IP52 rating offers basic protection only
  • No wireless charging

Best for: The buyer on a tight budget who wants to experience a foldable phone for the first time.

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The Motorola Moto Razr 40 is a clamshell foldable that came out in 2023, and in its renewed form it's one of the most affordable ways to get a folding phone. The large 6.9-inch main display offers a big canvas for content, and the 64MP camera with an f/1.7 aperture captures reasonably detailed photos in good light. The 13MP ultrawide lens adds some versatility. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chip is adequate for everyday tasks like social media, browsing, and maps, but it's not built for demanding games or heavy multitasking.

The compromises are real. The external 1.5-inch OLED is tiny, limited to showing notifications, time, and a few quick toggles. You won't be replying to messages from the cover. The IP52 rating means it can handle a few splashes but not submersion. Storage is 128GB, which is tight if you use many apps or take lots of photos. But if you simply want to try a foldable and see if the form factor works for you, this renewed Razr 40 is a low-risk entry point. The sage green color is also a welcome change from the usual blacks and silvers.

Buyer's guide: how to choose a foldable phone

If you're reading this, you've probably decided that a foldable phone is worth considering. The next step is figuring out which type fits your life. The two main formats — book-style and clamshell — serve very different needs. Here are the factors that actually separate a good buy from a regret.

Hinge design and durability

The hinge is the most critical mechanical component of any foldable. A good hinge locks open with a firm stop, closes flat with no gap, and feels consistent after thousands of folds. Samsung's latest hinges use a dual-rail structure that keeps dust out better than early designs. Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold uses a gearless hinge that feels smoother. When buying a renewed foldable, test the hinge carefully if possible — loose hinges can lead to screen damage over time. Look for IP ratings: IPX8 means water resistance but no dust protection; IP68 means both water and dust protection, which is rare but preferable.

Cover display usability

How usable is the phone when it's closed? On book-style foldables like the Z Fold7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the cover screen is a full smartphone in its own right — typically 6.2 to 6.5 inches with a 120Hz refresh rate. You can comfortably type, browse, and use apps without ever opening the phone. On clamshells, the external display is much smaller — often 1.5 to 3.5 inches — and is best used for quick glances, music controls, and notification previews. If you find yourself opening the phone constantly just to check something, the cover screen isn't good enough. Prioritize a cover screen that feels like a normal phone for the book-style format.

Camera performance in foldables

Because foldable phone bodies are thicker and must accommodate a hinge, camera hardware has historically lagged behind slab flagships. That's changing. The Samsung Z Fold7 and Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold now offer cameras that compete with the best non-foldable phones. The Z Fold7's 200MP sensor gives you flexibility to crop heavily, while the Pixel's computational photography produces balanced, natural colors. Clamshells typically have fewer lenses — often a single main camera and no telephoto — so consider whether you need zoom. If camera quality is non-negotiable, aim for the latest book-style foldables.

Multitasking and software experience

The whole point of a large folding screen is doing more than one thing at once. Both Samsung's One UI and Google's Pixel OS offer split-screen and app continuity. Samsung's approach is more aggressive: you can open up to three apps in separate windows on the 8-inch display, and the taskbar lets you drag apps into split-screen quickly. Google's approach is cleaner but less flexible. If you plan to use your foldable for work — comparing documents, video calls while taking notes — lean toward Samsung. If you prefer a less cluttered experience, Pixel's software is smoother.

Water and dust resistance

Not all foldables are created equal here. Most are IPX8, meaning they can survive submersion in water but offer no official dust protection. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands out with an IP68 rating, which means it's protected from dust ingress as well. If you live in a dusty environment or take your phone to the beach, IP68 is a significant advantage. The Motorola Razr 40 only has IP52, which is splash resistance at best. Check the rating before buying.

Frequently asked questions

Are foldable phones durable enough for daily use?

Yes, modern foldables from Samsung and Google are designed to last hundreds of thousands of folds. Hinges have improved significantly since the first generation. Daily use is perfectly reasonable, though you should be mindful of dust and hard impacts. An IP68-rated model like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers the best protection.

Do foldable phones have a crease?

Most foldable screens have a visible crease where the display bends. It is more noticeable on the inner screen when viewed at certain angles, especially on older models. Newer designs like the Z Fold7 have reduced the crease significantly, but it's still there. Most users stop noticing it after a few days.

What is the benefit of a book-style fold over a clamshell?

A book-style fold opens into a large, tablet-sized display (7.6 to 8 inches) that is excellent for multitasking, reading, and video. A clamshell folds into a compact square that fits easily in small pockets but opens to a standard phone size. Book-style is for productivity and media; clamshell is for portability.

Can I use a stylus on a foldable phone?

Some Samsung book-style foldables support the S Pen Fold Edition, including the Z Fold 6 and Z Fold 7. The stylus works on the inner screen but not on the cover screen. Google's Pixel foldables do not support a stylus. If you need note-taking, Samsung is the way to go.

How long do foldable phone batteries last?

Battery life varies. The Z Fold7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold last a full day with mixed use. Clamshells like the Z Flip7 FE also manage a full day. Older foldables or renewed models may have degraded batteries. Always check the battery health if buying renewed.

Is a renewed foldable phone a good idea?

Renewed foldables can be a smart way to save money, but you need to consider hinge and battery condition. Choose renewed models from reputable sellers that offer a return policy and some warranty. The Samsung Z Fold 6 and Z Fold 5 renewed units in this list are good options if you want a premium experience at a lower point.

Which foldable phone has the best camera?

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold has the best overall camera system for a foldable, thanks to its triple lens setup and advanced computational photography. The Samsung Z Fold7 with its 200MP sensor is a close second, especially for daylight shots with high detail.

Final verdict

The best foldable phones in 2026 cover a wide spectrum. If you want the most complete book-style experience, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is our top pick: it's slimmer, has a better camera, and its cover screen finally feels right. For photography-first users, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold delivers images that are consistently stunning and integrates AI in genuinely useful ways. If a clamshell is more your style, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is the best compact foldable — it's small, durable, and has great battery life. And if you're curious about foldables without committing a large sum, the renewed Motorola Moto Razr 40 or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 give you access to the form factor at a more manageable entry point. No matter which you choose, the foldable phone market in 2026 has matured to the point where there's a right option for nearly every kind of user.

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Michael Sullivan
Michael Sullivan

Michael Sullivan covers smart home tech, from security cameras to plugs and lighting. He is most interested in which devices quietly make life easier and which ones add more hassle than they remove.

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