Galaxy Z Fold 8: Why So Confident?
For the first time in the history of Samsung’s foldable lineup, the tech giant is reportedly preparing for a future where its flagship book-style foldable takes center stage over its more affordable clamshell sibling. New reports from insiders, cited by Ice Universe, suggest that production targets for the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 are significantly higher than those for the Z Flip 8. Perhaps fueled by the introduction of a second Z Fold 8 model, Samsung allegedly plans to produce 3.5 million units of the Fold 8 compared to just 2.5 to 3 million units for the Flip 8.
This shift in expectations is not entirely surprising given how well the previous generation performed. While the Z Flip has historically been the higher-volume seller due to its lower price point, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 proved to be a massive hit. Reports from launch indicated that the Fold 7 was actually outselling the Flip 7 in several markets, signaling a clear change in consumer appetite for larger, productivity-focused screens. This early success has likely given Samsung the confidence to lean harder into the Fold series for 2026.
What Makes the Fold 8 the New Hero?
To ensure the Z Fold 8 continues this upward trajectory, Samsung is rumored to be addressing several long-standing complaints with a series of substantial hardware upgrades. The device is expected to be even more svelte, with a target weight of 200 grams, making it 15 grams lighter than its predecessor.
A major focus for the new model is the internal display. Samsung is reportedly using new "laser drilling" technology to drastically reduce the visibility of the screen crease, a move that aims to satisfy people still bothered by the evidence of a foldable screen. Additionally, the battery is expected to jump from 4,400 mAh to 5,000 mAh, finally bringing the Fold in line with traditional flagship smartphones in terms of capacity.
The ultrawide lens is allegedly set for a massive jump from 12MP to a 50MP sensor, which should allow for much higher resolution wide-angle shots. However, the zoom camera remains a point of contention for many power users. While the telephoto lens is rumored to move from 10MP to 12MP, it is still expected to offer only 3x optical zoom. This is a minor bump that many argue won’t be enough to satisfy users looking to spend nearly $2,000. 3x is fine, but Samsung absolutely cannot keep using such a low resolution and likely tiny sensor. For the Fold 8 to truly accelerate sales above the 7, a more significant change to the zoom hardware may be necessary.
Fending Off New Rivals
The pressure on the Z Fold 8 is mounting as the competition heats up. While the Google Pixel Fold has already challenged Samsung's dominance with its wider aspect ratio and 5,500mAh battery, the real threat is the rumored iPhone Fold. Apple is expected to enter the market with a device that features a 4:3 aspect ratio, similar to an iPad mini.
In direct response to this, rumors suggest that Samsung is developing a second, separate wider model of the Z Fold 8 meant to compete directly. This device would reportedly feature a passport-style design with a 5.4-inch outer screen and a 7.6-inch inner display, matching the rumored dimensions and 4:3 aspect ratio of the iPhone Fold. By offering both the traditional tall Fold and a newer "Wide Fold" variant, Samsung hopes to lock in buyers before Apple can even hit the shelves later this year.