Key Takeaways
- Samsung unveiled new, more expensive foldable smartphones in London.
- The Galaxy Z Fold8 is the most innovative model, priced at $1,900.
- Higher prices reflect increased costs due to memory chips and AI technology.
South Korean tech giant Samsung has launched a new range of foldable smartphones, positioning them as premium devices with higher price tags. The company unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold8 during an event in London, marking its latest move in the competitive foldable market.
According to TM Roh, head of Samsung’s mobile division, 'By setting a new standard for foldables, we are once again advancing the premium mobile experience.' The Galaxy Z Fold8 stands out with its sleek design and 7.6-inch screen optimised for video viewing, measuring just 4.5 millimetres thick when unfolded.
The company’s strategy to maintain its dominance in this niche market is evident from the launch of these high-end devices. The Z Fold8 Ultra, a successor to the Z Fold7, starts at $2,100, while the more pocket-friendly Galaxy Z Flip8 begins at $1,200. These prices reflect the rising costs of memory chips, which are crucial for powering artificial intelligence.
Paolo Pescatore from PP Foresight commented, 'Galaxy Z Fold8 is the clear star of the show. It underscores Samsung’s dominance of the foldable category and its determination to expand the market with a device for almost every type of user.'
The launch comes as attention shifts towards Apple's upcoming event in September, where it is expected to unveil its first foldable smartphone. Francisco Jeronimo from IDC stated, 'Apple is about to do for foldables what it has done for every category it has entered, which is legitimise it for the mainstream.'
Samsung faces a challenge in defending its position as the pioneer of this technology. TM Roh acknowledged, 'Samsung has to defend the category it created, and that’s why it cannot play it safe.' The company aims to maintain its market leadership by continuously innovating and setting new standards.
The higher prices are justified by the strategic role memory chips now play in powering AI technologies. Apple recently cited similar reasons for raising the prices of its Macs and iPads. This move by Samsung signals a significant shift in the smartphone industry, where premium features come at a premium cost.
'By setting a new standard for foldables, we are once again advancing the premium mobile experience.'
TM Roh, Head of Samsung’s mobile division
'Galaxy Z Fold8 is the clear star of the show. It underscores Samsung’s dominance of the foldable category and its determination to expand the market with a device for almost every type of user.'
Paolo Pescatore, Technology analyst for PP Foresight
'Samsung has to defend the category it created, and that’s why it cannot play it safe.'
TM Roh, Head of Samsung’s mobile division
