At Samsung’s Unpacked event, the tech giant introduced three foldable devices, exceeding their usual number of yearly announcements. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 and the newly named Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra were anticipated releases. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, with its compact and broad design resembling a passport, sparked the most interest and discussion.

Before the official unveiling, tech reviewer MKBHD had early access to all three devices. His impressions of the base Fold 8 were unexpectedly positive. In his first-look video, he shared, “The more I use it and hold it and just mess around with it, I’m not going to lie, the more I’m liking it.” Such an endorsement from someone well-versed in foldable technology deserves attention.

The Features of the Galaxy Z Fold 8

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra continues the tradition of an upright, candy-bar style and a focus on flagship capabilities seen in the Z Fold 7. It features minor improvements rather than a complete redesign. The device boasts an 8-inch inner display, a 200MP primary camera with a 10MP 3x telephoto, a 5,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, and supports 45W wired charging. The price begins at $2,099, which is $100 higher than its predecessor. Ben Wood from CCS Insight noted that the price would “be a talking point.”

In contrast, the regular Z Fold 8 offers a different experience. When closed, it measures approximately 4.8 by 3.2 inches, resembling the shape of a passport. The interior screen stretches to a 7.6-inch size with a 4:3 aspect ratio. Its exterior screen is 5.5 inches, with minimal bezels. MKBHD observed that the camera viewfinder offers better frame coverage in this model compared to the Ultra.

Weighing 201 grams, the Z Fold 8 matches the Galaxy S26 Plus, which is noteworthy given its dual screens and 4,500mAh battery. Both Fold 8 models utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and Samsung’s Flex Titanium hinge design, reducing the visibility of the center crease. The inner display’s anti-reflective feature reaches up to 3,000 nits at peak brightness.

If Oppo’s Find N6 is a 10 out of 10, the new Samsung lands around an 8 or 8.5, versus maybe a 5 for last year’s model.

Despite improvements, the Z Fold 8 omits a telephoto lens, offering a 50MP primary and a 50MP ultrawide camera. The phone starts at $1,899, with its availability set for August 7 following pre-orders. Buyers should be aware of these trade-offs.

Strategic Positioning for the Future

Apple plans to potentially reveal a foldable iPhone in 2026, rumored to share the compact proportions seen in the Fold 8. While Oppo and Google have briefly explored this design, Samsung is solidifying its stance by offering both the Ultra and Fold 8. Each targets different audiences: the Ultra caters to multitaskers, and the Fold 8 appeals to those interested in Apple’s rumored design.

It’s honestly reminding me, and let me cook here,” said MKBHD. “It’s reminding me of the good parts of the Surface Duo. The good parts, the really nice hardware parts.

He further remarked on its lightweight feel, suggesting suitability as an e-reader. The Z Flip 8 also joins the lineup at $1,199, featuring the same Snapdragon chip and slight design refinements. Its changes have been expected by those following the product’s evolution.

Reports from GSMArena indicate that Samsung is producing more Fold 8 units than either the Ultra or Flip 8. This move implies confidence in the new form factor’s appeal to a broader audience. Considering MKBHD’s favorable experience, Samsung’s gamble may indeed pay off despite the device’s $1,899 price.