[News] Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Fold8 Lineup; Flagships Feature TSMC 3nm Chips, Price Hikes Reach US$100
Samsung held its latest product launch event in London on July 22. According to Economic Daily News, Samsung unveiled three new foldable smartphones—the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8, breaking from its previous practice of launching only two foldables. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold8 are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, manufactured on TSMC’s 3nm process, while the more affordable Galaxy Z Flip8 uses Samsung’s in-house Exynos processor.
The latest foldables also carry higher price tags. CNBC notes that the new models are priced above their predecessors, a move widely expected as component costs, particularly memory chips, continue to rise. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra costs US$100 more than the Galaxy Z Fold7, while the Galaxy Z Flip8 also carries a US$100 premium over the Galaxy Z Flip7. The report adds that the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra starts at US$2,099, followed by the Galaxy Z Fold8 at US$1,899 and the Galaxy Z Flip8 at US$1,199.
On shipment targets, ZDNet reported that Samsung Electronics President Roh Tae-moon said this year’s three new foldable models carry the company’s highest shipment target ever. The report adds that Samsung is reportedly targeting 5 million to 6 million units by year-end, a conservative goal compared with the roughly 6 million new foldables shipped last year despite the expanded lineup. Industry sources cited by the report said the cautious target likely reflects rising component costs, including memory semiconductors, as higher prices could weigh on demand.
Differentiated Foldable Designs for Distinct User Needs
Samsung’s latest foldable lineup features more distinct form factors tailored to different user needs. According to The Korea Economic Times, the flagship Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, designed to maximize productivity, features a 203.1mm (8.0-inch) main display and, at just 4.1mm when unfolded, is the thinnest Fold model to date. It also packs a 5,000mAh battery to support demanding multitasking and creative workloads.
The Galaxy Z Fold8 is aimed at content viewing and everyday usability. It features a 193.2mm (7.6-inch) main display with a new 4:3 aspect ratio, weighs 201g—the lightest in the Fold series—and includes a 4,800mAh battery. The Galaxy Z Flip8, meanwhile, prioritizes portability and AI convenience. Designed to fit easily into a pocket or small bag, it features an upgraded FlexWindow that functions as an AI-powered smart interface, allowing users to access the Quick Panel and App Tray without opening the device.
As noted by ETNews, Samsung’s more segmented foldable strategy reflects shifting competition in the foldable market. With Chinese manufacturers prioritizing ultra-slim, lightweight designs and Apple expected to launch a 4:3 foldable, the company is broadening consumer choice by targeting content-focused, premium, and compact segments. Meanwhile, hardware enhancements also extend across the lineup. The report notes that the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra are the first Fold models to feature Flex Titanium, improving screen crease resistance and durability.
Samsung Unveils AI Smart Glasses
At the same event, Samsung also unveiled its AI smart glasses. According to EBN News, the company introduced a new AI device form factor called “Intelligent Eyewear,” equipped with a camera, multiple sensors, microphones, speakers, and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chipset.
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(Photo credit: Samsung)
