Samsung unveils passport-shaped Galaxy Z Fold8 at London event, prices start at ₦2.54 million

Samsung has launched a redesigned generation of foldable smartphones, including a new passport-shaped Galaxy Z Fold8, at its Galaxy Unpacked event in London. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip8 also made the lineup, with pre-orders now open ahead of an August 13, 2026 release date.

Three distinct devices for different users

One of the biggest highlights is the Galaxy Z Fold8, a slimmer foldable designed for everyday entertainment, reading, browsing, and video consumption. Samsung renamed its larger foldable as the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, positioning it as the premium productivity-focused model. The Galaxy Z Flip8 remains the compact foldable for users who prioritise style and portability.

Justin Hume, Vice President of Mobile Experience at Samsung South Africa, said the new Galaxy Z 8 lineup represents a new chapter for foldable smartphones. He explained that the Fold8 targets users seeking immersive daily experiences, the Fold8 Ultra focuses on maximum productivity, while the Flip8 is designed for self-expression.

Storage, RAM, and durability upgrades

The Galaxy Z Flip8 comes with 256GB of storage. The Galaxy Z Fold8 is available in 256GB and 512GB variants. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra offers 512GB and 1TB storage options. All three devices feature at least 12GB of RAM, while the 1TB Fold8 Ultra includes 16GB RAM for demanding tasks.

Samsung introduced an upgraded titanium hinge system that makes the devices thinner without compromising durability. The company said a titanium alloy film and reinforced titanium plate improve structural strength while reducing the visibility of the display crease over time.

AI features and South African pricing

Each Galaxy Z 8 smartphone comes with six months of access to Google's AI programme, valued at about R2,500 (approximately ₦235,000 using an exchange rate of roughly ₦94 per South African rand). Samsung's Device eXperience Division CEO, TM Roh, said AI-powered mobile devices will become increasingly personal by adapting to individual users and simplifying everyday tasks.

Based on an exchange rate of approximately ₦94 to R1, Nigerian prices translate to:

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (512GB): R50,999 (about ₦4.79 million)
Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra (1TB): R60,999 (about ₦5.73 million)
Galaxy Z Fold8 (256GB): R40,999 (about ₦3.85 million)
Galaxy Z Fold8 (512GB): R45,999 (about ₦4.32 million)
Galaxy Z Flip8 (256GB): R26,999 (about ₦2.54 million)
Galaxy Watch Ultra2: R14,999 (about ₦1.41 million)
Galaxy Watch9 LTE: R8,999 (about ₦846,000)
Galaxy Watch9 Bluetooth: R7,999 (about ₦752,000)

Customers in South Africa who pre-order the Galaxy Z 8 series before August 12 will also receive accessories worth R1,500 and discounts of up to 20% on Samsung Care Plus.

What this means for Nigerian consumers

With prices starting at ₦2.54 million for the Flip8 and going up to ₦5.73 million for the top-end Fold8 Ultra, the new Samsung foldables remain luxury devices for the Nigerian market. The naira's weakness against the rand and dollar means these imported gadgets will command hefty premiums locally. For most Nigerian buyers, the Galaxy Z Fold8 series signals that premium foldable technology is now more diverse but no cheaper.