Topic overview
In brief
- Samsung's Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra preorders have increased by 30% compared to last year.
- The Fold 8's new design has resonated with consumers, making up nearly half of all preorders.
- The upcoming competition from Apple and Google may challenge Samsung's dominance in the foldable market.
Summary
In the United States, Samsung has reported a significant increase in preorders for its latest foldable smartphones, the Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, which have seen a 30% rise compared to the previous year. This surge in interest comes just as the devices are set to be available starting August 7, 2026. The Fold 8, with its unique passport-shaped design, has captured nearly half of all preorders, indicating a strong consumer preference for this new form factor. Drew Blackard, senior vice president of mobile product management at Samsung Electronics America, expressed optimism about the early momentum for the Galaxy Z series, highlighting the growing appeal of foldable devices in the market.
As Samsung prepares to launch its new devices, it faces increasing competition from major players like Apple and Google. Apple is expected to unveil its long-awaited folding iPhone in September 2026, which will feature a design similar to Samsung's Fold 8. Meanwhile, Google plans to introduce its Pixel 11 Pro Fold on August 12, 2026, with a taller and narrower design. This competitive landscape suggests that while Samsung has dominated the US foldable market thus far, the entry of these tech giants could significantly impact sales and market dynamics.