Updated
Updated · Tom's Guide · Jul 23
Samsung Expands Foldables to 3 Models as Apple Eyes 22% Share in Year 1
Updated
Updated · Tom's Guide · Jul 23

Samsung Expands Foldables to 3 Models as Apple Eyes 22% Share in Year 1

3 articles · Updated · Tom's Guide · Jul 23

Summary

  • Samsung is launching three foldables this year—the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8—betting a broader lineup can blunt Apple’s expected foldable debut later this year.
  • Jay Kim said the new Z Fold 8’s wider design targets media use, which nearly 50% of users prioritize, while keeping the device pocketable at 201 grams.
  • The Z Fold 8 Ultra is positioned as the premium productivity model, adding an 8-inch display, 5,000 mAh battery, 50MP camera and a 4.1 mm chassis with Flex Titanium to reduce the crease.
  • Samsung is also adopting silicon-carbon batteries in the Fold 8 and Ultra—4,800 mAh and 5,000 mAh respectively—after extended testing, saying foldables need higher capacity without thicker designs.
  • Apple’s entry still looms: IDC projects 22% global foldable share in its first year and Counterpoint sees 48% in North America, even as foldables remain only about 4% of the overall phone market.

Insights

With Apple's foldable looming, has Samsung's diverse new lineup done enough to defend its throne?
Is Samsung's new silicon-carbon battery a revolutionary power solution or a ticking time bomb for reliability?