IT·Science News

Samsung Unpacked in London: a wider Galaxy Z Fold 8, a $2,099 Ultra and Gemini glasses

Samsung unveiled its new foldables at Galaxy Unpacked in London on 22 July, its first major UK launch in 14 years, Android Central reports. The line-up includes two Folds: the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, from $2,099, close to last year’s shape but with a 5,000mAh battery, the largest yet in a Z Fold; and a new shorter, wider Galaxy Z Fold 8, from $1,899, with a 4:3 inner screen, which Samsung calls its lightest Fold. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 starts at $1,199. All go on sale on 7 August, along with the Galaxy Watch 9 ($379) and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 ($699).

Samsung also previewed camera-equipped smart glasses with Gemini built in, due this autumn with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster designs, and said Galaxy AI will reach 800 million devices by the end of 2026.

“The star of the show was the Galaxy Z Fold 8.” — NewsBytes

How each outlet framed it

• Android Central — the full sheet: prices, batteries, One UI 9 on Android 17 with seven years of updates, and Gemini automation for 40 more apps.
• NewsBytes — the redesign: a 7.6-inch inner and 5.5-inch cover screen, but at 4.5mm unfolded and 9.7mm folded, the Fold 8 is thicker than the Z Fold 7’s 4.2mm and 8.9mm.
• The Guardian — the verdict, weeks later: a passport-like shape that opens to an iPad mini-style tablet, at £1,699, with memory shortages pushing prices up.

What we don't know yet: whether buyers will take to a short, wide phone when it is closed, a question The Guardian’s review left open.