Bill Gates currently uses a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series smartphone. He specifically favors the foldable form factor because it provides a larger internal display that functions like a pocket laptop, allowing him to manage complex workflows without switching devices.
Why the Galaxy z Fold?
The choice is driven by utility rather than brand allegiance. Gates has stated that standard slab phones feel too small for his needs. He often works with white papers, spreadsheets, and emails simultaneously. The Z Fold’s internal screen, which expands to roughly 7.6 inches, allows him to view multiple windows side-by-side. This setup mirrors his long-standing preference for multitasking environments, which were a core part of the Windows experience he helped create.
Integration with Microsoft tools
A major factor in his decision is the deep integration between Samsung’s Android operating system and Microsoft’s productivity suite. Because Microsoft and Samsung have a long-standing partnership, apps like Outlook, Teams, and OneNote are optimized to work seamlessly on large Android screens. This means Gates can drag and drop files, respond to emails, and conduct video calls without the friction that often exists on non-partnered devices. For a user who relies heavily on these specific applications, this compatibility is a significant advantage over other Android manufacturers.
The role of the S-Pen
Gates has always been a proponent of handwriting and annotation. Before the iPad, he was involved in the development of the Windows Tablet PC. The Galaxy Z Fold includes the S-Pen, a built-in stylus that allows him to mark up documents directly on the screen. This tactile interaction aligns with his habit of writing in the margins of physical books. Using the stylus, he can edit PDFs, take notes during calls, or sketch ideas while traveling. It serves as a bridge between digital productivity and analog note-taking.
Why not an iPhone or Surface Duo?
Many assume Gates would use an iPhone due to its popularity among executives or a Surface Duo as a nod to his company. However, he has ruled out both. The iPhone’s closed ecosystem restricts the level of system-level customization and multitasking he prefers. As for the Surface Duo, while it features a dual-screen design, it lacks the seamless continuity of a single, large foldable panel. Gates has noted that the Surface Duo’s app optimization was not as robust as the Samsung ecosystem. He values a device that acts as a portable command center, and the Z Fold currently fulfills that role better than any other handset.
Productivity over status
Gates views his phone as a tool, not a fashion statement. He is less concerned with the prestige associated with certain brands and more focused on efficiency. The ability to leave his laptop behind for short trips or while in transit is a key benefit of the Z Fold. For someone managing global charitable initiatives, having a reliable, large-screen device that integrates with his existing workflow is more valuable than owning the latest flagship from a competitor. His choice reflects a pragmatic approach to technology, prioritizing functionality and compatibility over marketing narratives.