Samsung has introduced its next-generation foldable smartphones and smartwatches, unveiling the Galaxy Z Fold8 series alongside the new Galaxy Watch9 lineup as the company doubles down on artificial intelligence (AI) and premium mobile devices.
Leading the launch is the Galaxy Z Fold8, a redesigned book-style foldable that measures just 4.5mm thick when unfolded. Featuring a wider, passport-inspired design and a 7.6-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, Samsung says the device offers a more tablet-like experience for multitasking, reading and video streaming. The Galaxy Z Fold8 starts at Dh7,599.
The company also introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, its most advanced foldable smartphone to date. At only 4.1mm thick and weighing 215 grams, the flagship model includes upgraded cameras, a larger battery and enhanced AI capabilities. Prices begin at Dh8,399.
Completing the foldable lineup is the Galaxy Z Flip8, aimed at users seeking a compact smartphone for photography and social media. The clamshell-style device starts at Dh5,099.
AI drives premium smartphone strategy
Samsung said the higher prices of its latest foldables reflect increasing memory chip costs driven by the rapid growth of AI technologies.
The new smartphones come equipped with Google’s Gemini AI assistant and software features designed to take advantage of larger displays for document management, multitasking and content creation.
The company noted that growing demand for advanced memory and storage chips used in AI systems has also increased manufacturing costs for premium smartphones, echoing similar pricing trends seen across the technology industry.
Galaxy Watch9 lineup expands AI ecosystem
Alongside its new smartphones, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2, positioning both devices as AI-powered health and fitness companions.
The Galaxy Watch9, priced from Dh1,449, offers a brighter display, lighter design and improved health tracking for everyday users.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 starts at Dh2,669 and targets athletes and outdoor enthusiasts with a larger battery, rugged construction and advanced workout and recovery tools.
Samsung said both smartwatches introduce AI-powered wellness features, including more personalised heart monitoring, sleep analysis and fitness insights, while strengthening integration across its Galaxy ecosystem.
Samsung prepares for foldable competition
The launch comes as industry speculation continues over Apple’s expected entry into the foldable smartphone market later this year.
Samsung, which pioneered the modern foldable category with the first Galaxy Fold in 2019, remains the market leader. Analysts, however, believe Apple’s arrival could significantly expand consumer interest in foldable devices.
IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo told AFP that Apple could help bring foldable smartphones into the mainstream, prompting Samsung to broaden its portfolio with three foldable models catering to different user needs.
Foldable market expected to grow
Although foldable smartphones account for only a small share of global smartphone sales, analysts expect the segment to expand rapidly.
According to IDC, foldable smartphone shipments are projected to increase by around 20% in 2026 despite an expected 14% decline in the broader smartphone market.
Samsung hopes its expanded foldable lineup, combined with thinner designs, larger displays and AI-powered features, will strengthen its position in the growing premium smartphone segment, even as prices for top-tier models approach or exceed $2,000.
Also read: Samsung set to unveil world’s first-ever rollable-screen smartphone
