Samsung launches new, more expensive foldable smartphones

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, July 26, 2026

Samsung Electronics unveiled its latest foldable smartphones in London, featuring higher prices influenced by rising AI-related component costs and introducing models like the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 to reinforce its market leadership. This launch positions Samsung ahead of anticipated competition from Apple, whose potential entry into foldables later this year could significantly expand the segment.

Samsung Electronics introduced its latest line of foldable smartphones Wednesday in London, unveiling models with higher price points driven in part by rising component costs linked to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The South Korean company emphasized its ongoing leadership in the foldable device market, which it has helped develop since 2019, ahead of potential competition from U.S. rival Apple later this year.

The flagship Galaxy Z Fold8 is designed to resemble a compact tablet when unfolded, measuring 4.5 millimeters thick with a 7.6-inch screen that offers a 4:3 aspect ratio optimized for video consumption. Priced starting at $1,900, the device aims to combine portability with enhanced multimedia capabilities. Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, positioned as the premium variant, which is thinner at 4.1 millimeters and weighs 215 grams. This model starts at $2,100.

In addition to the Fold8 series, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Flip8, a smaller, pocket-sized option intended primarily for social media users, with a starting price of $1,200. The company attributed the increase in pricing across these foldable models to the rising cost of memory chips, which are seeing heightened demand due to their central role in AI applications.

Samsung’s mobile division head, TM Roh, described the new models as raising the standard for foldable smartphones and enhancing the premium mobile experience. Technology analysts note that Samsung’s sustained investment in the foldable segment underscores its ambition to broaden the market and appeal to a diverse set of consumers.

Paolo Pescatore, a technology analyst with PP Foresight, highlighted the Galaxy Z Fold8 as the standout product, reinforcing Samsung’s dominance in foldable technology. Industry observers are now focusing on Apple’s upcoming September event amid speculation the company may enter the foldable smartphone market, which could reshape competition.

Francisco Jeronimo of IDC noted Apple’s influence in legitimizing new device categories for mainstream adoption, suggesting that Apple’s entry into foldables could further expand the segment. Apple itself acknowledged increased component costs driven by AI as a factor in recent price hikes for its Mac computers and iPads, a trend reflected in Samsung’s updated pricing as well.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.