Galaxy Z Fold8: Finally a bit of innovative thinking
They wouldn't, would they?
I was watching the preview video posted by Samsung Europe's Chief Marketing Officer (Benjamin Braun) earlier this week and thought, "no... seriously... a change in form factor?"
Here's a screenshot of the video Benjamin posted:
And here is an obligatory link to his post:
Ryan Lexer
You can see the very strong hints of the new form factor there.
I thought I'd wait until Unpacked before posting anything.
Simply because... wow... this is the first piece of innovation we've had in the mobile industry since... well, the folding handset, right?
It is sadly quite unfortunate that it takes something like this to move me to write here on Mobile Industry Review (beyond interviews and opinion pieces which I am delighted to post, by the way, do email me!)
The new form factor does make sense. I wasn't sure if we'd get a double screen or Samsung were muting a change to the standard "Ultra" slab.
I'm pleased Samsung felt empowered enough to do this. Ever since I saw that Microsoft device - what was it called - I have liked the format.
Let me go and search...
The Microsoft Surface Duo. That was it.
This is the first time I've felt it might be worthwhile buying something new (that isn't an iPhone).
I haven't been moved to upgrade my Samsung S21 Ultra (I think) since I lived in Muscat, Oman. And I left the country in early 2023.
At every Samsung Unpacked event I've been hovering on the Samsung order page.
Hovering.
All the way to the 'COMPLETE' stage... but not quite.
I always like the deals that Samsung throws together for the launch of the devices - especially when they include their Galaxy buds (although this time it's only 10% off!).
I haven't quite hit the complete button though.
Is the Galaxy 7 Fold8 (Ultra) with the new form factor going to change that?
I think so. I'll have a detailed look.
So those are the pricing details. £1,699, minimum, for the Z Fold8. Add about £200 for the Ultra. And it has to be Ultra, doesn't it? I do like
Ultra. Although I can't quite tell you what the difference between standard and Ultra is yet.
I need to sit and watch the Unpacked event properly.
Over the years Samsung has been quietly innovating a whole host of services, not least their financing and Samsung Care+ capabilities - and the instant discount... that's something I've almost used about three years on the trot.
And one of the services that's caught my attention recently has been the "Premium Plus" service which offers doorstep van service for your device repairs. Genius.
So. Well done, Samsung.
I'll go and watch the Unpacked details and give some strong thought to upgrading my aging S21 Ultra!