Samsung has introduced a redesigned generation of foldable smartphones, unveiling a new passport-shaped Galaxy Z Fold8 alongside the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip8 during its Galaxy Unpacked event in London, United Kingdom. The launch marks one of the company's biggest changes to its foldable lineup, with a fresh design, upgraded artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, improved durability, and a revised naming strategy aimed at serving different categories of smartphone users.
Samsung introduces a new foldable design
One of the biggest highlights of the event is the introduction of the new passport-shaped Galaxy Z Fold8, a slimmer foldable designed primarily for everyday entertainment, reading, browsing, and video consumption. Samsung also renamed its larger foldable device as the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, positioning it as the premium productivity-focused model, while the Galaxy Z Flip8 remains the company's compact foldable for users who prioritise style and portability.
According to Samsung, the three devices are built to offer distinct experiences rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Justin Hume, Vice President of Mobile Experience at Samsung South Africa, said the new Galaxy Z 8 lineup represents a new chapter for foldable smartphones. He explained that the Fold8 targets users seeking immersive daily experiences, the Fold8 Ultra focuses on maximum productivity, while the Flip8 is designed for self-expression.
Bigger storage, more memory and stronger build
Samsung has equipped the new foldable smartphones with generous storage and memory options. The Galaxy Z Flip8 comes with 256GB of storage, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 is available in 256GB and 512GB variants. For power users, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra offers 512GB and 1TB storage options. All three devices feature at least 12GB of RAM, while the 1TB Fold8 Ultra includes 16GB RAM for demanding tasks.
According to a report by MyBroadBand, Samsung also introduced an upgraded titanium hinge system that makes the devices thinner without compromising durability. The company said a titanium alloy film and reinforced titanium plate improve structural strength while reducing the visibility of the display crease over time.
AI takes centre stage
Artificial intelligence remains a major selling point of Samsung's latest flagship devices. Each Galaxy Z 8 smartphone comes with six months of access to Google's AI programme, valued at about R2,500, which is approximately ₦235,000 using an exchange rate of roughly ₦94 per South African rand. Samsung's Device eXperience Division CEO, TM Roh, said AI-powered mobile devices will become increasingly personal by adapting to individual users and simplifying everyday tasks.
Prices converted to naira
Samsung has opened pre-orders for the new foldable smartphones ahead of their official release on August 13, 2026. Based on an exchange rate of approximately ₦94 to R1, the Nigerian prices translate to:
- Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (512GB): R50,999 (about ₦4.79 million)
- Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (1TB): R60,999 (about ₦5.73 million)
- Galaxy Z Fold8 (256GB): R40,999 (about ₦3.85 million)
- Galaxy Z Fold8 (512GB): R45,999 (about ₦4.32 million)
- Galaxy Z Flip8 (256GB): R26,999 (about ₦2.54 million)
- Galaxy Watch Ultra2: R14,999 (about ₦1.41 million)
- Galaxy Watch9 LTE: R8,999 (about ₦846,000)
- Galaxy Watch9 Bluetooth: R7,999 (about ₦752,000)
Customers in South Africa who pre-order the Galaxy Z 8 series before August 12 will also receive accessories worth R1,500 and discounts of up to 20% on Samsung Care Plus. With its redesigned foldable form factor, stronger hardware, AI-powered software and premium positioning, Samsung is betting that the Galaxy Z Fold8 series will attract users looking for more than a conventional smartphone experience.
