Samsung Electronics has announced three new foldable smartphones, including the Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip8.
The launch comes as the company seeks to maintain its dominance in the foldable market and mobile artificial intelligence ahead of expected competition from Apple Inc.
The Galaxy Z Fold8 features a thickness of 4.1 mm [1] and a 4:3 screen ratio [1]. Samsung also highlighted expanded AI features integrated into the new hardware to differentiate the devices from traditional smartphones [1].
No Tae-moon, head of Samsung Electronics' DX Division, said the importance of preparing for the evolution of mobile AI. He said that Samsung Galaxy is the most advanced company in this regard [1].
The strategic timing of the release precedes the anticipated debut of Apple's first foldable phone. Reports indicate Apple is expected to launch its first foldable device with the iPhone 18 Pro in September [1].
By releasing the Fold8 and Flip8 series now, Samsung aims to secure its user base and set the technical standard for thinness and AI utility before its primary rival enters the segment [1]. The introduction of the "Ultra" variant for the Fold8 suggests a move toward a tiered premium strategy to capture different segments of the high-end market [1].
“The Galaxy Z Fold8 features a thickness of 4.1 mm.”
Samsung is attempting to build a significant technical and psychological moat by emphasizing extreme thinness and AI integration. By launching these devices before Apple's expected September entry, Samsung hopes to define the 'foldable' category for consumers, making it harder for Apple to disrupt the market share with a first-generation product.
