Samsung strengthens foldable line with three new models before confrontation with Apple
Samsung reinforced its leadership position in the foldable smartphone market on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, with the launch of three new devices. The expansion of the South Korean giant’s portfolio comes at a crucial time, just two months before Apple’s long-awaited entry into this segment, setting the stage for an intense dispute in the technology sector.
Samsung consolidates its trajectory in the foldable smartphone market
Samsung has been a pioneer in the foldable cell phone segment, accumulating seven generations of devices that have shaped the category. With this new wave of launches, the company further consolidates its presence and expertise, aiming to maintain the lead in a market that promises to become increasingly competitive. The strategy seeks to retain consumers and demonstrate continuous innovation.
The new models in the Galaxy Z line and their features
Samsung’s new series is made up of three models: the Galaxy Z Fold 8, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and the Galaxy Z Flip 8. Each was designed with different focuses, seeking to meet different user profiles. The Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra follow the book format, while the Flip 8 maintains the clamshell design, known for its portability and practicality.
More on this story: Galaxy Z Fold 8 rises: Samsung sees pre-sales of foldables rise 30% in the US
- Device prices are:
- Galaxy Z Fold 8:$1,899
- Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra:$2,099
- Galaxy Z Flip 8:$1,199
Main distinctions between the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra models
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 presents itself as a more compact option compared to the Fold 8 Ultra. It has a 5.5-inch front display and a 7.6-inch main internal display. This configuration, according to Samsung, is optimized for the consumption of multimedia content, such as videos, social networks and games, offering an immersive entertainment experience.
In turn, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra was developed with a focus on productivity, featuring larger screens: 6.5 inches on the front and 8 inches on the inside. This model is ideal for those who need to work with multiple spreadsheets, documents and presentations, offering expanded screen space for multitasking. Furthermore, the Ultra is equipped with a set of three cameras (wide angle, telephoto and ultra wide angle), surpassing the Fold 8 which has wide angle and ultra wide angle lenses.
The Galaxy Z Flip 8 maintains its appeal as a highly portable device, with a 4.1-inch outer display for quick viewing of notifications and apps, and a 6.9-inch main display. Its most striking feature remains the ability to close the phone with a snap, making it compact to fit easily in pockets and bags.
The influence of artificial intelligence and the new values of devices
All three new phones come equipped with Qualcomm processors and integrate Samsung’s Galaxy AI and Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence services. The presence of these advanced AI technologies is highlighted as one of the factors contributing to the slight increase in the prices of the Ultra and Flip models, reflecting the investment in smart and improved features. AI allows everything from improvements in photography to performance optimizations and user interactivity.
Learn more: Galaxy Z Fold 8 will have Flex Titanium screen with improved durability and fewer creases, confirms Samsung
How Apple’s arrival should impact Samsung’s dominance in the market
Samsung holds a significant share of the global foldable smartphone market, with estimates from Counterpoint Research pointing to 40% in 2025, followed by Huawei with 30%. However, Apple’s imminent entry into the segment, with its own foldable iPhone expected in September, promises to shake up this dynamic. Information from industry analysts indicates that Apple’s device could be priced at more than US$2,000, placing it in direct competition with Samsung’s most premium models. This scenario sets the stage for fierce competition, with companies seeking to innovate and attract consumers in a high-value niche.

















