One of my favorite Galaxy Z Fold 8 features reminds me of old folding clocks

If you ask me, the best thing about convertible 2-in-1 laptops that feature 360-degree hinges is the ability to use them in different, unconventional ways, such as tent and stand modes.

Interestingly enough, one of the things I love most about Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold 8 is that it borrows a little bit of that convertible 2-in-1 laptop DNA, even though its hinge only rotates 180 degrees.

What I mean is that although Flex Mode is technically missing from the new Galaxy Z Fold 8, Samsung thankfully included one Flex Mode setting that allows us to use the Fold 8 in two unconventional modes — tent and stand — without a kickstand case or other accessories.

Note: To turn this feature on or off, press and hold the Auto-Rotate quick toggle and tap the “Auto rotate when partially folded” button.

Your mileage will vary, but I find this Flex Mode feature particularly useful whenever I want to watch content on my Fold 8 without having to prop it up against another object or wrap in a kickstand case.

For example, when I cook food in the kitchen or play games on my TV/PC and want a secondary screen nearby to watch video content at the same time.

This Galaxy Z Fold 8 feature is also brilliant if you want to watch a movie or an episode of your favorite show before you fall asleep. I usually set the phone on my nightstand in stand mode and watch the content while resting my head comfortably on my pillow.

Speaking of nightstands, when video content isn’t running on the phone, I sometimes like to keep my Fold 8 in stand mode on the nightstand. It reminds me of those old, nightstand folding clocks. Except, you know, the Fold 8 is state-of-the-art mobile technology. The Always On Display, combined with this Flex Mode feature, makes it possible, and it looks fantastic.

Even better, if you have a wireless charger, you can keep it on your nightstand and place your Galaxy Z Fold 8 on top of it in stand mode. This way, you can charge it at the same time. I have my wireless charger elsewhere, on my desk, but the nightstand is just as good of a location.

I will admit this Flex Mode feature is not the most revolutionary thing that ever happened to mobile devices or foldables in general, but it is just one more thing I like about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 because it’s unlike anything you’ll find on a regular phone. It works and can seamlessly make the Fold 8 a bigger part of your daily routine. No cases or accessories required.

If you have a Galaxy Z Fold 8, make sure you try it out sometime. The great thing about it is that you can keep it on while having the usual “Rotate to landscape mode” home screen option turned off. This way, your home screen will auto-rotate only in tent or stand modes and stay locked in portrait mode when you use the cover screen normally.