Samsung Unveils Three New Foldable Devices: Spotlight on the Galaxy Z Fold 8

At Samsung’s recent Unpacked event, the company introduced three foldable devices, an increase from their usual annual announcement. The anticipated Galaxy Z Flip 8 and the newly named Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra were expected launches. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, with its compact design reminiscent of a passport, surprised many and has become a focal point of discussion.

Initial Impressions from MKBHD

Before the official reveal, tech reviewer MKBHD previewed the devices. His reaction to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 was unexpectedly positive. In his first-look video, he shared, “The more I use it and hold it and just mess around with it… the more I’m liking it.” His endorsement is notable, given his extensive experience with previous foldable devices.

Design and Features of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra retains the candy-bar form and flagship identity of its predecessor, the Z Fold 7. It offers an 8-inch inner display, a 200MP primary camera, a 10MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 5,000mAh silicon-carbon battery. The device charges at 45W and starts at $2,099, an increase from last year’s model. Analyst Ben Wood highlighted the price as a significant point of interest.

The Unique Appeal of the Galaxy Z Fold 8

The regular Galaxy Z Fold 8 departs from traditional designs. When closed, it measures about 4.8 by 3.2 inches, resembling a passport rather than any previous Samsung phone. The interior screen measures 7.6 inches with a 4:3 aspect ratio, allowing media in this format to utilize the entire display. The outer display spans 5.5 inches with minimal bezels, and MKBHD noted its camera viewfinder provides better frame coverage than the Ultra’s cover display. Weighing in at 201 grams, it is comparable to the Galaxy S26 Plus despite housing two screens and a 4,500mAh battery.

The Fold 8 series runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and features Samsung’s Flex Titanium hinge. This design significantly reduces the central crease’s visibility, with an inner display offering up to 3,000 nits at peak brightness. MKBHD compared the crease reduction favorably against Oppo’s Find N6. However, the Fold 8 lacks the telephoto lens and Flex mode, featuring only a 50MP primary and ultrawide lens. Priced at $1,899, the Fold 8 launches on August 7 with pre-orders available now.

Competing Against Potential Apple Foldables

Analysts predict Apple will launch a foldable iPhone in 2026 mirroring the compact design seen in the Fold 8. While early foldables from Oppo and Google briefly explored this shape, the market has favored the taller format dominated by Samsung. By offering both form factors with the Ultra and Fold 8, Samsung caters to diverse preferences.

MKBHD speculated, “It’s reminding me of the good parts of the Surface Duo… I also think this form factor would be awesome for an e-reader experience, either open or closed, because of its lightness.” If the execution impresses in a full review, Samsung’s strategic positioning could prove effective.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8

The Z Flip 8 completes the lineup, priced at $1,199. It features the same Snapdragon chip and a sleeker chassis than its predecessor. It’s considered an expected incremental update.

According to GSMArena, Samsung plans to produce more Fold 8 units compared to the Ultra or Flip 8. The company seems confident the new form factor will attract a larger audience. MKBHD’s enthusiasm after testing the Fold 8 suggests Samsung’s gamble might deliver significant returns despite the $1,899 price tag.