Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and Z Fold 8 Ultra are official. Here's what you need to know about the crease-free screen, One UI 9, colors, and availability starting August 7.
Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event for July 2026 brought the expected trio of foldable phones: the Galaxy Z Fold 8, the Galaxy Z Flip 8, and a new higher-end variant, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Preorders are open now, with general availability starting August 7. Here's a breakdown of what's confirmed, what reviewers are saying, and what you should know before buying.
The headline feature of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is its display. Samsung has introduced a new titanium-based screen technology that makes the main folding display thinner and almost entirely free of the crease that has defined foldable phones since their inception. PCMag's Eric Zeman detailed how Samsung achieved this, calling the result a "virtually crease-free screen." The phone also offers a wider viewing experience compared to its predecessor, the Z Fold 7.
Under the hood, the Z Fold 8 runs One UI 9, Samsung's latest software overlay, which comes with Gemini Nano 4 built in. This on-device AI model powers new features for photo editing, text summarization, and more, all processed locally for speed and privacy.
Early impressions are mixed but leaning positive. PCMag described the Z Fold 8 as "fresh, fun, and a little frustrating," acknowledging its innovative design while noting some of the usual foldable trade-offs. Android Authority's Zac Kew-Denniss was more emphatic: he initially thought the Z Fold 8 was a gimmick, but after using it, Samsung proved him wrong. The device is available in several color options, though Samsung has not yet released a full list of all regional variants.
For the first time, Samsung is offering a premium version of its book-style foldable. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra sits above the standard Z Fold 8, though specific spec differences beyond the name have not been detailed in the sources. Android Authority's Stephen Radochia, after using the Ultra, was left with "one expensive question" — suggesting the device pushes the price envelope further than ever. Preorders for the Ultra are live alongside the standard models.
The clamshell foldable received a less enthusiastic reception. Android Authority's Hadlee Simons, after trying the Z Flip 8, wrote that "one thing is clear — Samsung has given up" on that form factor. The review suggests the Z Flip 8 lacks meaningful hardware or software upgrades compared to its predecessor, positioning it as a minor refresh rather than a step forward. Color options are available, but the device appears to be a placeholder in Samsung's lineup rather than a flagship in its own right.
Samsung also announced the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 at the same event. The Watch Ultra 2 introduces diving features, but with a catch: they require a subscription. This paywalled functionality has drawn criticism, especially from users who expect premium hardware to include premium software without ongoing fees.
The Galaxy Ring, Samsung's smart ring, is also gaining a vital new capability this year, though the source does not specify what that capability is. It's likely tied to health tracking or gesture control, given the ring's focus on continuous monitoring.
All three foldable phones — the Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and Z Fold 8 Ultra — are available for preorder now. General sales begin August 7. Pricing details were not provided in the available sources, but the Ultra model is expected to command a premium over the already expensive Z Fold 8.
If you're coming from a Z Fold 7 or earlier, the Z Fold 8's crease-free display and wider screen are tangible improvements that address two of the biggest complaints about foldables. The addition of the Ultra model gives power users a new option, though its value proposition remains unclear without full specs.
For Flip fans, the Z Flip 8 is a harder sell. With reviewers calling it a sign that Samsung has moved on, it may be worth waiting for a more substantial update — or considering alternatives from competitors like Motorola or Oppo.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2's subscription model for diving features is a reminder that hardware is only part of the equation. As wearables become more capable, the software and service layer is increasingly where the real value — and cost — lies.
We'll have full reviews of the Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and Z Fold 8 Ultra as soon as we can put them through their paces. In the meantime, check out our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy phones in 2026 for a broader view of the lineup.
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