The Galaxy Z Fold 8 has emerged as a runaway success for Samsung, with pre-orders reported to be three times higher than those of the Fold 7. Demand has exceeded expectations to the point that delivery dates have slipped, underscoring the strong consumer interest that built ahead of the device’s official announcement.
Samsung promoted the Fold 8 far more aggressively than the Flip 8 in the days before launch, and the strategy appears to be paying off. Yet questions remain over how much credit Samsung can claim, particularly given the parallel attention drawn to Apple’s anticipated iPhone Ultra.
Why the Fold 8 has captured attention
The Fold 8 marks the first major redesign of Samsung’s book-style series since its introduction, adopting a shorter and wider form factor. A reader poll gathered 328 responses to gauge why the device attracted so much focus. Of those, 169 respondents (52%) viewed it as a pre-emptive move against the forthcoming iPhone Ultra. A further 120 (37%) credited the new design, while 39 readers (12%) believed Samsung gave it extra attention because it could eventually replace the Flip lineup.
The wider aspect ratio was not entirely new to the market. Huawei was technically first to launch a device with this shape, though restrictions prevented it from becoming a global hit. Samsung, however, remains the first mainstream manufacturer to popularise foldable phones.
The debate over who inspired whom
Rumours suggest Apple was first to pursue the wider foldable design on paper, but development took long enough for Samsung to reach shop shelves first. Apple was initially rumoured to be working on an iPad Mini-like foldable in 2024, with speculation intensifying through 2025. Rumours about a wide Samsung foldable first surfaced in late 2025.
Perception plays a role in how buyers respond. Some shoppers convinced that Samsung followed Apple’s lead may choose to wait for the iPhone Ultra rather than commit to the Fold 8. Others are expected to buy the first wide foldable they can find, regardless of the origin story.
Strengths and shortcomings of the Fold 8
Assessments of the Fold 8 highlight a lightweight design, impressive battery life and snappy performance. The camera system and software, however, are seen as weaker points, an area where the iPhone Ultra could potentially hold an advantage.
The frequent comparisons to Apple’s upcoming device have not dented the Fold 8’s momentum. With pre-orders running at three times the level of its predecessor and delivery timelines extended, the foldable has established itself as one of Samsung’s most sought-after launches to date.
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Image: phonearena.com
