Samsung has introduced its latest series of innovative foldable smartphones, potentially posing a challenge for Apple’s upcoming ventures. The tech giant from Korea has revealed three new models, led by the fresh Galaxy Z Fold 8, which showcases a revamped appearance.
Unlike its predecessors with a tall cover screen and square main panel, Samsung has shifted to a wider and shorter “passport-style” design. While the closed form may seem unconventional, unfolding the device reveals a logical new shape.
The interior boasts a wide 7.6-inch display, resembling more of a compact tablet than a smartphone, catering well to activities like streaming, binge-watching, and mobile gaming.
This launch holds significance as Apple is anticipated to unveil its initial foldable iPhone soon, potentially adopting a similar radical design. If speculations hold true, Samsung has already taken a lead over its primary rival.
Apart from design, Samsung is also making strides in other aspects. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 stands out as the slimmest and lightest Fold iteration, weighing just 180g. It features an enhanced hinge for better durability and reduced long-term breakage risks.
Upon opening, the larger display incorporates Vision Booster tech and an anti-reflective coating for improved visibility in bright sunlight. Power is driven by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with a 4,800mAh battery that charges up to 63% in just half an hour.
The device offers a dual-camera setup for quality photography, supported by Gorilla Glass for scratch and impact resistance. Samsung has integrated its latest Galaxy AI tools for enhanced photo editing, productivity features, and improved search capabilities.
Priced starting from £1,699, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is now open for pre-orders, setting it in comparison to the speculated cost of Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone, expected to exceed £2,000.
In addition to the Fold 8, Samsung has also unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, resembling the previous Fold 7 in appearance but upgraded with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and an advanced camera system. The rear setup now boasts a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto camera, promising enhanced low-light photography and 8K video recording.
The Fold 8 Ultra introduces the new Flex Titanium hinge and a refined display structure for added strength and aesthetics. Samsung claims to have reduced the crease issue while ensuring a smoother and more natural unfolding mechanism. A larger 5,000mAh battery ensures prolonged usage, charging up to 67% in around 30 minutes.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra starts from £1,899, offering a premium foldable experience. Completing the lineup is the Galaxy Z Flip 8, maintaining Samsung’s popular clamshell design but now thinner and lighter.
The external cover display has been enhanced, accompanied by improvements like a robust aluminium hinge, enhanced performance, and upgraded camera capabilities. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is priced starting from £1,149, catering to users seeking a compact yet powerful foldable device.
