What you need to know

• Following Galaxy Unpacked, all eyes are on Samsung's foldables, and Honor is putting its Magic V6 against the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.
• The company highlights its large 6,660mAh battery using silicon-carbon tech; however, Samsung has adopted this tech, but for a smaller 5,000mAh cell.
• Honor also highlights its device durability despite being quite thin, alongside faster charging speeds, and strong iOS, Mac, and Windows connectivity.

We're still trying to collect ourselves and regroup after Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked yesterday. However, Honor, like all of us, was watching, and it wants to go head-to-head: putting its Magic V6 against the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

Honor has a clear vision it wants to bring into reality with its foldables. In a press release, it told Android Central that "Foldables are evolving rapidly, and we believe side-by-side testing can provide consumers with the clearest picture of what matters..." There's a lot we can get overwhelmed with after Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra; however, one area my colleague Nicholas Sutrich and I are the most interested in is its battery.

Honor's Magic V6 features a 6,660mAh battery with 80W wired and 66W wireless charging capabilities. For comparison, the Fold 8 Ultra from Samsung only offers a 5,000mAh battery, a 600mAh improvement over the Fold 7 (which it succeeds). What's more, Samsung is still playing it "safe" (one could say), offering 45W wired and 20W wireless charging.

The company then highlights the technology it's incorporated into its foldable batteries, as this area is often a "major compromise," per its press release. Honor highlights the use of silicon batteries to solve this common issue.

Another area that Honor's side-by-side comparison stands a hair higher than the Fold 8 Ultra is its display. While the numbers are fairly close, Honor states the Magic V6 boasts a 1.5% "low reflectivity" screen. Moreover, its Pocket AI workstation incorporates seamless iOS, Mac, and Windows connectivity, and "one-tap" share for photos and more on iPhones and Macs.

This or that

While the choice is always up to the consumer on which device suits them, it's not all bad for Samsung. With its Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, Samsung also uses silicon-carbon battery technology. This technology improves on what we already come to expect from batteries in our phones. Silicon-carbon tech packs more capacity into the same space. In short, you can have a larger cell without a thicker phone (and we know Samsung likes thin phones). The Fold 8 Ultra features a 5,000mAh battery, while the wider Fold 8 offers a 4,800mAh cell.

The good news is the devices are relatively thin. But what's interesting is how long it's taken Samsung to offer a boost to an area that matters. As Sutrich reminded me, Honor's Magic V3 from 2024 had a 5,080mAh battery. Those totals have only grown.

Durability is another area in which Honor highlights its strengths. The Magic V6 is thin, but it rocks durability like no other. Both sides have made great improvements to their hinge technology, so the choice is truly yours.

Android Central's Take

There are other areas where Honor's Magic V6 outperforms the Galaxy Z Fold 8. If you look at its selfie camera, the Magic V6 offers two 20MP lenses, while the Fold 8 settles for dual 10MP. However, the Fold 8's main camera is 200MP. Honor's is 60MP, but it beats its competitor's telephoto with 64MP. You can like both phones. I certainly do. Both foldables stand tall on their own in their own way.

What you need to know

• Ultrahuman announced the Emerald update for its app, which brings a "decision engine," known as UltraSphere.
• UltraSphere can deliver over 60 "Next Best Action" suggestions to users based on their location, weather, profile, and biomarkers (sleep, HRV, recovery, etc.).
• Other updates involve VO2 Max algorithm updates, heart rate accuracy improvements, and enhanced workout detection.
• The Emerald update is rolling out today (July 23) globally.

Ultrahuman pushes its smart rings and users to be better in health and fitness. But the company isn't done, and its major app overhaul today (July 23) is the largest in its history.

The Emerald update is rolling out for the Ultrahuman app late this week. The company highlights "15 new and overhauled features" in this patch, but the star is the "decision engine," UltraSphere. The app sports several UI refinements in this patch. The company states it redesigned its UI for clarity for "health data and to promote better decisions." Users receive light and dark modes, a Jade AI tab, and "timely" information in the Ring tab.

UltraSphere is the centerpiece of the Emerald update and the app's homescreen. Ultrahuman says this is a "decision engine that generates 60+ Next Best Actions, such as boosting energy and alertness, winding down, and promoting more restful, restorative sleep." UltraSphere doesn't do it alone, as the press release states it leverages Jade AI to draw on your markers from sleep, recovery, HRV, cycle phase, and more.

Mohit Kumar, Ultrahuman's CEO, states, "All wearable trackers generate data. Data is empowering, but people do need something more than a number – they want to know what to do." In that spirit, UltraSphere delivers its suggestions based on your location and weather, circadian rhythm, and profile.

If you're a parent or someone working the night shift, UltraSphere would tailor its suggestions to fit that lifestyle. A "Next Best Action" suggestion might include "Get Light," which would tell the user to "Step outside for a few minutes soon after waking. Morning light sets the body clock so users feel alert today and fall asleep more easily."

Your heart and VO2 Max

The Emerald update makes two important changes to the app's tracking and accuracy. Ultrahuman says its Ring runs all of its processes on your device. This was done to keep your insights available without a connection.

The latter focuses on workout analysis and heart-rate accuracy with the Ring Pro and Air. Automatic workout detection and tagging have been improved. Heart rate details take a few steps up in this update, too. The Ultrahuman app also welcomes third-party devices for workout tracking. It highlights many GPS sports watches like the Apple Watch, Garmin, WHOOP, and others.

Ultrahuman is putting its VO2 Max capabilities in the spotlight, boasting a 21% increase in accuracy. The company credits a major algorithm, which has been "validated" against gold-standard CPET lab tests. The Emerald update for the Ultrahuman app is rolling out globally today (July 23). While we've covered a few important updates here, there are several more you'll also find: Sleep Screener, Longevity tab, Connections, Windows, Live View, Today's Activity, Today's Activity, Contextual Content, Goals, and PowerPlugs.

What you need to know

• Google says Chrome on Android now experiences 48% fewer scroll stutters than in 2023.
• The improvements are the result of nearly three years of engineering work.
• Google redesigned several parts of Chrome's rendering pipeline to achieve this.

If you've felt lately that the Chrome app on Android is smoother while scrolling through articles (like this one, even), it's probably because you're using the end result of three years of engineering work behind the scenes at Google.

While Google may be focusing heavily on new AI features, like bringing more Gemini into Chrome, there are also plenty of other improvements the company has been quietly working on for Chrome on Android. Take, for example, that split-second stutter you sometimes notice when scrolling through a webpage before it carries on as normal, which Google internally calls "scroll jank."

In a new engineering blog post, Google says Chrome on Android now experiences 48% fewer janky scrolls than it did back in late 2023.

According to Google, scroll jank happens when Chrome fails to update the page quickly enough to keep up with your finger. Even though the delay may only last a fraction of a second, it's still enough for the human eye to notice, making the whole scrolling experience feel jerky.

The company says that getting rid of those interruptions wasn't as simple as making Chrome faster. Google explains that Chrome's rendering pipeline is far more complex than a typical Android app because the browser spreads work across multiple processes for security and stability. That means there are far more opportunities for tiny delays to build up before a frame finally appears on screen.

To tackle the problem, Google first spent months instrumenting Chrome's rendering pipeline to identify exactly where scroll stutters were occurring.

It then introduced a series of architectural improvements over the following years, including rerouting touch input through a faster path, reducing communication delays between browser processes, and moving more work onto the GPU.

Google also worked alongside Android itself to prioritize the operating system's input threads, helping touch events reach Chrome more consistently, thus helping it produce frames more reliably.

Google went into a lot more depth about exactly how it fixed all this, but I won't bore you with the technical details. In case you've been wondering why Chrome doesn't feel so bad on Android anymore, this is why your feed might feel a little less jumpy than it did a couple of years ago.

Considering that we called the Galaxy Watch 8 the 'best Android smartwatch of 2025', it's no surprise that we've been eagerly awaiting the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 9. Now the big day has arrived, and Samsung's newest flagship wearable doesn't disappoint. 

The only problem is that the new smartwatch is a bit more expensive than its predecessor, which is why I was excited to see Amazon offer a free $50 gift card when you preorder the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 ahead of its August 7th release date.  

Preorder the Galaxy Watch 9 and Amazon will give you a $50 gift card

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 may not look that different from its predecessor at first glance, but there are some significant improvements when you dig in a bit deeper. The 2026 watch is driven by the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, offering a notable performance boost when compared to the Galaxy Watch 8's Exynos processor. Battery capacity has also been upgraded, plus the Galaxy Watch 9 features all of the latest Galaxy AI features with some expanded health and fitness tracking capabilities.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 sports the exact same weight and dimensions as last year's model, which, considering how much we loved the Galaxy Watch 8, is a good thing in our eyes. The new wearable also features the same vibrant AMOLED display, 32GB of onboard storage, and dual-band GPS.

Does upgraded battery life and a new chip justify the higher price on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9? It's not for me to say. If you can find a good deal on the Galaxy Watch 8 and you don't mind using a last-gen watch, go for it. But if you want the latest and greatest model from Samsung, I can pretty much guarantee that the Galaxy Watch 9 won't disappoint. The free $50 gift card from Amazon is simply the cherry on top. 

It's official: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 has been revealed, and there are already some exceptional preorder deals available for the folks who can't wait for the August 7th release date.

Head to T-Mobile, for instance, and you can get the innovative flip phone for as little as $100 when you trade in and add a line with the Experience Beyond or Experience More plans. Existing T-Mobile customers can also use the legacy Go5G Next or Go5G Plus plans.

T-Mobile will give you $1,100 off the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 when you preorder

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 looks almost identical to the Z Flip 7 at first glance, but there are a few notable improvements where it counts. The Z Flip 8 utilizes the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, for instance, which is the same powerful processor that drives the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Z Fold 8 Ultra.

The clamshell device also features a thinner and lighter build than its predecessor, plus you get all of the latest AI-boosted software features and seven years of OS and security upgrades guaranteed. That being said, the displays and camera systems remain largely unchanged, which might make it difficult for some folks to justify the $1,199.99 price tag.

Fortunately, that's why preorder opportunities like the T-Mobile deal above are so essential. The carrier is also being pretty generous with its trade-in credit: Samsung phones dating back to the Galaxy S20 series will get you the full $1,100 of credit, while plenty of other devices from Apple, Motorola, and OnePlus are also eligible.

Excited for your new Galaxy Z Flip 8 to arrive on August 7th? Don't forget to protect your investment with one of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 cases!

Now that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is official, we can start speculating about the Galaxy Z Flip 9. In most years, we'd have a leak or two about the next model's specs or design by now, but Z Flip 9 rumors pointin a different direction entirely: the end of the Z Flip line.

Ahead of the Galaxy Z Flip 8's announcement, one rumor claimed this would be the last of Samsung's eight-generation-long Flip phones. This comes from leaker Ice Universe, who is known for accurate information on upcoming devices, but, as with any leaked information, it could simply be from a meeting where Samsung floated the idea of ending the Z Flip line rather than a legitimate decision to end it.

While the leak didn't provide much info beyond "The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is likely to be Samsung's last small folding product," it's highly likely a combination of waning sales and market conditions is making Samsung rethink every product it makes.

With the new smaller Galaxy Z Fold 8's arrival and the upcoming onslaught of similar "fun-sized" book-style foldables, Samsung and other players may be shifting focus away from Flip-style phones. Regardless of what happens, we'll be collecting every rumor and leak that appears between now and the expected release of the Galaxy Z Flip 9.

Galaxy Z Flip 9: Price and availability

Samsung's next folding phone announcement, which likely includes the Galaxy Z Flip 9, should take place in July 2027. Samsung has been using a mid-late Summer date for its folding phone and wearables announcements, and we expect that to continue next year.

With electronics prices continuing to rise, we also expect another price increase for the Galaxy Z Flip 9, particularly if RAM and storage prices continue to soar, as is predicted due to the AI data center boom. One of the Z Flip's biggest selling points has always been the lower price when compared to the Z Fold, and another price increase could spell trouble for the Z Flip line.

What we expect for the Galaxy Z Flip 9

It's been a while since we've seen a substantial redesign of the Z Flip series. The Z Flip 8 further reduced the thickness of the series, but since it's not quite Z Fold 8 thin, it's likely a Z Flip 9 will continue to slim down the series. Samsung has begun using silicon-carbon in its batteries (5% silicon content in the Z Flip 8), which means it can continue to increase battery capacity and decrease physical battery size, enabling thinner and lighter phones.

Since the cover display already takes up the entire front of the phone on the Z Flip 8, it's unlikely we'll see changes to it's physical appearance on a Flip 9. Samsung's new titanium screen protection substantially reduced the inner crease on the Z Fold 8 series, and a Flip 9 would do well with a further decreased crease, as well.

There's been word that the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display will begin making its way to other Samsung phones in 2027, and that could include the company's premium-level foldables like a Galaxy Z Flip 9. Even if this phone doesn't get that tech, it needs to address the PWM rate, as Samsung has fallen substantially behind rivals in eye care features like this.

I'd also love to see Samsung add a telephoto camera to the Z Flip 9. Basically all flip-style phones include a main and an ultrawide camera, but few have tried to offer some kind of "Pro-level zoom" as a non-folding flagship would at this price range.

It'll be a while before we can start feeling sure of Samsung's direction for the next Z Flip phone, but you'd better believe we'll have everything you need to know about it right here as the rumors and leaks roll in over the next year.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 just doubled its chances of success with a new shorter, wider model, and that gets us excited to see what Samsung is cooking for the Z Fold 9 series. This year may be all about the new form factor, but we're hoping next year shores up some of the obvious weak points of Samsung's most premium folding phones.

Right now, we're looking at a laundry list of wishes and additions we'd love to see, from an Ultra-style wider Fold 9 to the return of the S Pen, better cameras, and improved battery capacity. Plus, with Samsung's especially close relationship with Google these days, there's definitely going to be new AI-powered software tricks and features that we don't expect.

But until Samsung officially announces it, here's everything we know so far (and hope to see) about the Galaxy Z Fold 9 series.

Galaxy Z Fold 9: Price and availability

If 2026 will go down in history for any one thing, it's the mega inflation rate for RAM and storage components. Fueled by the massive AI data center boom, component prices are skyrocketing, and the prices are expected to double again by the end of 2027 unless something drastic changes.

That means the expected Summer 2027 launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 9 series will come well before the peak of component price increases, forcing Samsung to increase prices yet again for the launch. We'll keep a sharp eye on this one, for sure, but things aren't looking up for a downward trend in this realm of things.

What changes can we expect for the Galaxy Z Fold 9?

Now that Samsung has firmly planted its flag with dual Fold models, we expect the company to reveal its full plans for the future of Z Fold design in 2027. The wider, shorter Z Fold 8 is expected to take home the lion's share of sales, and that may mean Samsung launches additional models in 2027.

Last year, Samsung experimented with the Galaxy Z TriFold, the company's first folding phone with two hinges and three displays. While that phone's availability was short-lived, we know Samsung is working on a successor, which likely means a Galaxy Z TriFold 9 or a similar naming convention.

Depending on how well the wider Galaxy Z Fold 8 sells, Samsung could also deliver a more powerful Wide Fold next year. This means a Galaxy Z Fold 9 Ultra that uses the shorter, wider form factor of the Z Fold 8, all with better camera hardware and a higher-capacity battery to match the Ultra name.

It's also possible that future Ultra models will begin using Samsung's Privacy Display that debuted with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, as it's been said that this display tech will ship in more Samsung phones in 2027. Either way, we're hoping Samsung finally listens to feedback and improves it's display PWM rate and eye care features, which have fallen well behind rivals.

Many are also hoping to see a Galaxy Z Fold 9 with camera hardware that finally feels like a true flagship phone. If another round of price increases turn out to be true, it would behoove Samsung to upgrade the Z Fold 9's cameras with a telephoto camera that doesn't feel like it's from 2019. Considering Samsung looks to be adopting a horizontal Pixel-style camera bar in the Galaxy S27 series, there should be plenty of room for improved camera hardware on a similarly-designed Z Fold 9.

We should also see further improvements in battery capacity now that Samsung has finally begun adopting silicon battery technology. While rivals are reaching 30% silicon content in some models, Samsung's Z Fold 8 series uses just 5% silicon content. Samsung has been extremely shy about battery changes since the Galaxy Note 7 disaster, so we only expect a modest improvement in silicon content for the Z Fold 9 rather than something earth-shattering.

Lastly, Samsung's new Flex Titanium screen technology paved the way for thinner and stronger flexible glass on the Z Fold 8 series, which could spell a return of S Pen compatibility on the Z Fold 9. I could very well see Samsung give the taller Z Fold 9 or even a potential Z 9 TriFold this capability and call it the Galaxy Z Fold 9 Note. That would give its models an important differentiator and bring back the fan-favorite Note series, making it a must-have phone for tech lovers.

What you need to know

• Samsung has opened its application period to consumers looking to grab its first credit card: the Galaxy Card.
• Consumers can get this digitally or physically in a black metal design, thanks to a Barclays U.S. Consumer Bank partnership.
• The Galaxy Card offers a series of cash rewards for consumers, such as 5% cash rewards on eligible purchases made directly with Samsung.

There have been plenty of reveals and announcements at Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked today (July 22), but there's a little more to discuss. The company is entering the credit card world, and you can apply now.

In a press release, Samsung announced the Galaxy Card: the brand's first credit card in the U.S., which delivers "a new way for users to earn cash rewards across everyday purchases and the Galaxy ecosystem." The Galaxy Card is available as a virtual and a premium black metal card. As one would expect, the card is designed to fully support Samsung Wallet. The Galaxy Card was made in partnership with Barclays U.S. Consumer Bank operating on the Visa network.

This partnership is said to help offer "innovative payment options" for Samsung's consumer base.

The company states the Galaxy Card has a $0 annual fee. Rewards are a major aspect of Samsung's first credit card. Consumers will receive 5% cash rewards on eligible purchases made directly with Samsung. What's more, you could receive 20% off Samsung VIP Advantage, as well as 5% cash rewards "when purchasing or renewing a Samsung VIP Advantage membership." The remaining cash rewards are as follows:

• 3% cash rewards on purchases made with Samsung Wallet
• 2% cash rewards on streaming services, like Netflix, Disney Plus, and Spotify
• 1% cash rewards on all other purchases
• $200 cash reward after spending $2,000 in the first 90 days

Galaxy Card and new products

Applications for the Samsung Galaxy Card have opened today (July 22). The company lined up this open period with Galaxy Unpacked, which showed off new smartwatches and foldables.

It's been a while, but Samsung's new credit card was talked about before. Originally, nothing was confirmed. There was a report late last year that said Samsung had approached Barclays to create a card of its own. The alleged name was similar to what was announced, rumored to be the "Samsung Card." Early reports claimed Samsung would offer cashback on its devices and appliances, alongside "digital prepaid accounts."

This had us thinking Samsung was looking to compete against Apple, which has a card it offers consumers. Samsung has continued to refine its payment experience, whether digital or a physical card that we've now received.

What you need to know

• OpenAI is addressing a severe AI security flaw with Hugging Face that occurred during a simple "model evaluation."
• It discovered that GPT‑5.6 Sol and other pre-release models were involved in this incident, relentlessly breaching nodes and exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities until it gained internet access.
• OpenAI states it is committed to partnering and working with Hugging Face and others to solve this problem and roll out protections.

After what appears to be an "unprecedented cyber incident," OpenAI is getting candid about a nasty AI security incident during a "model evaluation."

A recent security incident involving an autonomous AI gave AI Hugging Face quite the scare. Now, OpenAI is discussing what its investigation into the matter uncovered as it partners with Hugging Face to develop protections. OpenAI explains that the incident occurred "during an internal evaluation which prompts models to pursue advanced exploitation using complex attack paths, in an effort to quantify their cyber capabilities."

These tests typically run in a "highly isolated environment," but some AI models broke through. Another unnerving discovery is that the AI models involved in the incident were OpenAI's GPT‑5.6 Sol and other pre-release models.

OpenAI says the models in question became "hyperfocused" on finding a solution for ExploitGym, and it went to "extreme lengths" to discover one. To solve the problem, OpenAI found that the AI would relentlessly pursue a way to access the internet. In doing so, the AI models found and exploited a reported zero-day vulnerability. Once the AI broke its isolation and got access to the internet, it was over.

OpenAI says, "the models inferred that Hugging Face potentially hosted models, datasets, and solutions for ExploitGym." OpenAI gives an example, stating the AI was able to "chain" attack vectors, leveraging stolen credentials and other zero-day vulnerabilities within Hugging Face's servers. The post states that Hugging Face identified the problem and launched quarantine (containment) measures, as well as the reconstruction of its open-source models to stop the problem.

Quite the fright

Hugging Face adds that it also deployed additional guardrails and "stricter admission" controls on its clusters to prevent this issue. The company also stepped up its awareness, so a "high-severity signal pages a responder in minutes, any day of the week." Hugging Face has begun working with a cybersecurity forensic specialist to conduct further investigations.

On OpenAI's side, it's working on stronger controls at an infrastructure configuration level. Partnering with Hugging Face has brought the company into its trusted access program. OpenAI says it is offering Hugging Face its support in this matter. On a related note, Hugging Face has informed its community members about a few potential next steps. Since security is a major concern, it recommends that its community members "rotate any access tokens" and review recent activity on their account.

Hugging Face remains committed to using AI as a defender for online systems. It says, "Defending an online platform now means treating the data and model surface as a first-class attack surface, and using AI on defense to keep pace. We will keep investing there, and keep sharing what we learn."

Android Central's Take

This sounds exactly like a sci-fi movie. I saw people in Hugging Face's comments mention Terminator 3... and that might be what I'm thinking of. My colleague Nicholas Sutrich said this was a "nasty AI incident." He's not wrong. These AI models were able to get free, exploit terrible flaws, and gain internet access. It was after the solution to a problem it was given. It didn't stop. Imagine that danger turned in another direction. Something much more crucial to us.

What you need to know

• Samsung fixes a major Privacy Display annoyance by limiting the privacy effect to the PiP window instead of the entire screen in One UI 9 Beta 4.
• The update allows you to watch PiP videos privately while the rest of the display stays bright and fully visible.
• The update also removes unnecessary dimming and color shifts across the whole display during PiP playback.

One of the biggest differentiators of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung’s Privacy Display, but it has also been a source of an annoying tradeoff. If you shrunk a video into a picture-in-picture (PiP) window, the privacy effect continued covering the entire display, making everything else on the screen dimmer and harder to see. The latest One UI 9 beta finally turns that on its head.

According to a video shared by reliable leaker Ice Universe, One UI 9 Beta 4 makes Privacy Display much smarter when using PiP apps. The display angle restriction is no longer applied to the entire display but is still restricted to the floating PiP window. Then you can continue watching YouTube videos or another PiP app without showing it to people around you, while using the rest of your phone normally.

This change fixes a real usability bug. Samsung’s Flex Magic Pixel technology is built right into the Galaxy S26 Ultra screen, limiting viewing angles to make the display unreadable from the side. Unlike a traditional privacy screen protector, it can be enabled only for specific apps, notifications, or password entry. The downside is it also dims the brightness and shifts colors while it's active, so having it cover the whole screen during PiP playback felt a bit too limiting.

With the new behavior, only the sensitive content within the PiP window is shielded, and the rest of the interface is displayed at normal viewing angles and brightness. The enhancement is part of One UI 9 Beta 4, which also delivers a variety of bug fixes in preparation for Samsung’s wider One UI 9 release.

Android Central's Take

This appears to be a fix for a problem that should never have existed in the first place. A privacy feature is only useful if it doesn’t get in the way of using your phone, and covering the whole screen just to protect a tiny PiP window always felt like overkill. This change finally allows Privacy Display to work as I would expect it to from day one. Now Samsung just needs to polish the experience, rather than leaving it to beta users to clean up the rough edges of features it proudly marketed as ready for flagships.

Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event just wrapped up in London, where the company unveiled its latest lineup of foldable phones, alongside a new generation of Galaxy smartwatches. The event largely went as expected, with Samsung walking through the hardware upgrades, new AI features, and refinements across its latest devices.

But there was more to Unpacked than just new phones and wearables. Samsung quietly announced a few interesting changes, teased what's coming next, and slipped in several details that were easy to miss. If you didn't catch the event live, here are five of the biggest announcements you may have missed.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a new name (and shape)

This was probably the biggest surprise from Galaxy Unpacked. Despite the name, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 isn't actually the direct successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7. That title now belongs to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, while the regular Galaxy Z Fold 8 is an entirely new foldable with a completely different form factor.

Instead of the tall, narrow design Samsung has used since the original Galaxy Fold, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is shorter and much wider. When unfolded, it feels much closer to a compact tablet than a stretched-out phone, making it a far better fit for multitasking, reading, and watching videos.

The naming is admittedly a little confusing if you haven't been keeping up with the leaks, but after spending some hands-on time with the device, it's honestly the most interesting product Samsung announced at Unpacked.

It also feels like Samsung made this move to get ahead of Apple's rumored foldable iPhone, which is widely expected to adopt a similar passport-style design later this year. We'll be diving much deeper into this new form factor over the coming week, because I think there's a lot more to it than just a different aspect ratio.

Samsung finally adopts Silicon Carbon battery tech

It took Samsung long enough, but the company has finally joined the silicon-carbon battery club. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 are the first Samsung phones to use the new battery technology, something Chinese smartphone makers adopted years ago.

The biggest advantage of silicon-carbon batteries is that they can pack more capacity into the same physical space. That's exactly what Samsung has done here. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra now features a 5,000mAh battery, up from the Galaxy Z Fold 7's 4,400mAh cell, while also increasing wired charging speeds to 45W.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra are also first Samsung foldables with (almost) crease-free displays

The new passport-style Galaxy Z Fold 8 may have grabbed most of the attention, but I actually think the displays are one of the biggest upgrades across Samsung's new foldables. More specifically, it's the inner display that's seen the biggest improvement.

Both the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra feature a much less visible crease than previous Samsung foldables. During my hands-on time, it looked very close to what Oppo achieved with the Find N6 earlier this year.

Samsung says this is thanks to its new Titanium Flex technology, which uses a redesigned titanium layer and hinge structure to reduce the appearance of the crease while improving durability.

Samsung hasn't confirmed it yet, but if recent reports are accurate, this could also be a self-repairing display layer that smooth out the crease over time.

Another underrated upgrade is the new anti-reflective coating on the inner display. Since foldable screens are still plastic, they've traditionally reflected a lot of light. That's much less of an issue this time around thanks to an anti-reflective coating that makes the display noticeably easier to use outdoors and under bright lighting.

Samsung finally adds some long-due software features with One UI 9

Samsung also showcased One UI 9, which is based on Android 17, that will debut with its new foldables.

One of the coolest additions is Fan Cam, which lets you record a video normally and then automatically track a specific person in the frame. One UI 9 then uses AI to crop the footage into social media-friendly formats like 9:16 or 1:1, making it much easier to create videos for Instagram Reels or TikTok without manually editing them later.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 also quietly gets one of its biggest software upgrades yet. Samsung has finally unlocked the cover display, making it feel much more like a proper smartphone screen.

You can now swipe down for Quick Settings and notifications, swipe up to access the app drawer, and interact with the cover display much more naturally instead of being limited to Samsung's previous implementation.

We now know more about the Galaxy Glasses

Samsung didn't fully unveil the Galaxy Glasses at Unpacked, but the company did share a few new details about its upcoming smart glasses.

Samsung confirmed that it's working with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker on the design of the glasses, and, as expected, they'll run Android XR with Gemini at the center of the experience.

Samsung also confirmed they'll be powered by Qualcomm's AR1 Gen 1 chip and that the first generation smart glasses won't feature a display, but rather they would be AI-first smart glasses designed around voice, cameras, and Gemini.

The company also revealed that when launched, you'll be able to control the glasses using hand gestures while wearing a Wear OS smartwatch.

Samsung is still keeping the exact launch date under wraps, although it did confirm they'll arrive sometime later this year.

What you need to know

• Samsung announced during Galaxy Unpacked that the Galaxy Ring will receive Sleep Apnea detection "this fall."
• The company states that the Galaxy Ring will be the "first and only" smart ring that's available over-the-counter to receive FDA clearance for such detection.
• Samsung first cleared its Sleep Apnea detection for the Galaxy Watch in Korea in 2023 before rolling it out globally (after the FDA gave the go-ahead) in 2025.

Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked is just wrapping up in London, but the company snuck in a surprise: the Galaxy Ring is getting major sleep health clearance.

During the keynote, Samsung was covering its summer releases, and this particular section involved the Galaxy Watch 9. The company's newest "all-day, always-on for health" smartwatch has been cleared by the FDA for Sleep Apnea detection; however, Samsung says so will the Galaxy Ring. The company states, "this fall," its Galaxy Ring will be the "first and only FDA-cleared, over-the-counter ring device for Sleep Apnea risk protection."

As previously mentioned, the Galaxy Watch 9 features Sleep Apnea detection. Samsung revealed everything about the device and its Ultra 2 partner this morning (July 22). The watch's Sleep Apnea detection goes further than letting the user know a disruption took place overnight. According to Samsung, its Sleep Apnea detection features AI algorithms for "deeper insights into breathing disruptions during sleep."

This is an important highlight Samsung discussed during its Unpacked keynote, too.

Huge for the Galaxy Ring

Samsung has been down a long road for Sleep Apnea detection on its wearables. In 2023, the company's Galaxy Watch received approval from South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for Sleep Apnea detection, as well as blood pressure monitoring. Consumers in the U.S., and many of us here at Android Central, were eagerly awaiting (and hoping) for FDA approval, too. We had to wait until February 2024 before the FDA gave the all-clear for Samsung's Galaxy Watch detection.

While approval is all well and good, Sleep Apnea detection didn't hit our devices until 2025. The feature leverages the watch's BioActive sensor to alert the user to potential disruptions. Sleep Apnea is a serious medical condition that Samsung is trying to give users better insight into. If left unchecked, it can cause an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia, and more.

Now that Samsung has worked in more of its AI algorithms, we can likely expect more detailed round-ups once this hits the Galaxy Ring. For now, we have the Galaxy Watch 9 to use and see how it works before the fall.

Android Central's Take

This stunned us during Unpacked. It's not something we were expecting, and I'm sure all eyes are on Samsung's smart ring competitors. Sleep Apnea, as I mentioned already, is a serious medical issue. If left unchecked, like anything else, it can worsen. Health awareness is never a bad thing, and for a device (a smart ring) that's already hard-focused on health, it sounds like a no-brainer.

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases add robust shock-proofing, prevent the hinge from getting damaged, and add useful extras like a magnetic ring, screen protection, a phone holder, and a stand. Depending on the price, weight, and thinness, you can easily find a stellar Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra that has a few or all of those features.

Read all about the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases that match your requirement. I have rounded up the most reliable options right here in this guide.

Level up your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra's impact protection with these cases

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Incredible Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases exist, but most of them are priced around the $100 mark

From cases that glow in the dark and have grippy sides to cases that have kickstands and really powerful magnets, the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases don't fall short of our expectations. They do, however, almost all cost an arm and a leg to acquire. Fortunately, brands like Spigen exist, making affordable Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases priced around $30 instead of $100.

If you want to stick with the cheapest option, you will be pleasantly surprised by how well it functions. The Spigen Air Fit Pro Magfit comes in two colors, black and green, and it is slim enough to allow wireless charging. It still adds military-grade drop-proofing and has incredibly strong N55 magnets inside. You also get dependable hinge protection, all for a really reasonable price.

When money isn't an object, however, you can close your eyes and pick any of the wonderful Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra cases that the most premium brands have to offer. Thinborne is my go-to brand in that case, as the brand uses aerospace-grade 600D aramid fiber to build its cases. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra Case comes in three colors, black, red, and blue, and is magnetic. Measuring just 0.04 inches thin, and weighing just 0.8 ounces, you'll forget it's on your Z Fold 8 Ultra. Of course, it doesn't add rugged drop-proofing, but my colleague actually dropped his phone on the tiled marble floor with the Thinborne case on and was shocked at how it was unscathed. So if you have about $90 to spare, you too can enjoy this marvelous case on your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

The rumored Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide turned out to just be called the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, now with much wider screens. This square-shaped foldable has two very lovely displays, both of which could use the help of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protectors to reinforce drop proofing. One slip of the hand and your very expensive book-style foldable could shatter badly, so don't take risk. Whether its durable glass you prefer or flexible plastic, these screen guards have it all.

These Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protectors are the very best of what's available

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Picking the right Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protector made easy

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 screen protectors come with user-friendly installation frames, multiple pieces of screen guards, and cleaning tools to make your life easy. It's not necessary to change the internal foldable display's screen protector, so you don't have to prioritize it, but it sure helps to have a spare ready to go just in case.

For an all-inclusive package that leaves nothing out without bankrupting you, the Ferilinso 3 Pack Inside Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 with Back Camera Lens Protectors is the best option. This $20 purchase will buy you a trio of 9H tempered glass screen protectors with military-grade shatter-proofing for your Fold 8's cover display. The kit also includes three tempered glass camera lens protectors and three flexible films for the Fold's internal display. Ferilinso provides two installation frames, one for each display.

If you don't like glossy finishes, then you can opt for a matte, paper-like screen protector instead. The Diacube Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Paperfeel Anti-Glare Matte Screen Protector three-pack includes three screen guards for each of the Fold's dual displays. All six matte films are anti-reflective and able to self-heal from minor abrasions. Diacube provides one installation frame and a cleaning kit as well, and the entire set is priced below $20.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the true successor to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, with its similar aspect ratios, screen sizes, and triple camera array. As with any smartphone, it is best practice to always reinforce the display with a sturdy screen protectors. And because foldables are more fragile, with moving parts and dual screens, the need for the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protectors is even more important.

Protectors to prevent screen shatters, cracks, and abrasions

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A buyer's guide to picking the right Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protectors

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra screen protectors will differ from person to person. Some folks like to be minimal with their shopping, opting for a single screen protector for the front. Others like to get multi-packs and have plenty of extras to spare in the future. It's also important to remember that Samsung does not recommend users to replace the internal folding screen's factory-installed screen guard at home, and not until it starts peeling off, which also factors into your decision.

Regardless of how you want to go about choosing a screen protector for your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, I suggest getting an all-inclusive kit with multiple spare. It makes more sense to get it done with initially, so you don't have to repurchase later, and you're always prepared in case of emergencies. Ferilinso has a fantastic package that checks those boxes, giving you three 9H tempered glass screen protectors for the 6.5-inch front display, three flexible plastic films for the internal 8-inch display, and three more glass screen protectors for the camera lenses. Ferilinso also includes cleaning tools like wipes and a squeegee, as well as two installation frames.

If you want to stick with a front screen protector alone, there are several great options in different price segments. The BENKS GlassWarrior AR Screen Protector is a high-quality aluminum-lithium 9H tempered glass with an anti-reflective finish and case-friendly curved edges. It repels fingerprints, smudges, dust, and any other solid or liquid particles. Although it's on the pricey side, I have used and found the BENKS tempered glass to be of dependable quality.

Investing in the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 screen protectors is like having an extra life in a video game; if you screw up, you can always start over with max health. Dropping your expensive new Flip 8 on a hard surface will definitely shatter the display. And if it's unfolded, both the screens could crack in one fell swoop. Why take the risk? Just get a sturdy tempered glass screen protector for the cover display and a flexible film for the internal foldable display, and you'll have an insurance policy to rely on.

To that end, here are all the best Galaxy Z Flip 8 screen protectors that you can choose. I have also included camera lens protectors, so you can reinforce them as well.

These are your best screen protector options for the Galaxy Z Flip 8

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How to select the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 screen protector

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 screen protectors are shatter-proof, fit well, come with installation frames, and have at least one spare set in the box. Fortunately, most of them are quite reasonably priced, apart from the most premium of the lot.

Ferilinso is an affordable, well-liked brand that consistently puts out good quality screen protectors for all the best flagship smartphones. The Ferilinso 3 Pack Inside Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 with 9H Tempered Glass Back and Camera Lens Protectors is one of the most comprehensive kits available for the Z Flip 8. You get everything you need: three military-grade shatter-proof 9H tempered glass screen protectors for the cover display, three flexible films for the internal screen, and three sturdy camera lens protectors made of tempered glass as well. All the screen guards have an oleophobic nano-coating on top, so they repel solids and liquids alike, including dirt particles, oil residue, and fingerprints. The set even has an alignment tool for perfect at-home installation. All of that for just $15 is an outstanding deal!

If you to opt for more premium brands, Spigen and ZAGG are excellent options. Spigen is more affordable, giving you two front screen protectors made of tempered glass and an easy-to-use frame at $17.

ZAGG, on the other hand, is in a class of its own with its, with its premium-grade InvisibleShield Glass XTR5 made of graphene-infused Hexiom Impact Technology and Eyesafe CPF60 technology that filters blue light emissions. Spending $59.99 on a single front screen protector might sound insane, but it comes with a lifetime replacement warranty and a screen repair guarantee covering up to $250 worth of repairs. Since Samsung does not recommend replacing your Z Flip 8's internal screen protector, it would make sense to just get something for the external display.

The cat's out of the bag: the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide is, in fact, just called the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. The book-style foldable has a very wide aspect ration. With the help of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases, you can make it easier to grip and prop up, and add robust impact-proofing too.

Whether you're looking for something magnetic or a heavy-duty case that can withstand any amount of battering, it's all available. All the very best cases in every category are listed right here.

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases are all right here

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Choose a Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases that matches your needs and fits your budget

There are hundreds of Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases out there, but choosing the right one means identifying your needs and then matching that with something reliable. I have been testing cases, screen protectors, and accessories for many years, which is why you can rely on my expertise when hunting for the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases.

Thinborne is a Texas-based brand that has a fantastic reputation. The company isn't very big, but they are stringent with their quality control. This is why the Thinborne Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide Case is easily the ultimate case for your wide-screened Z Fold 8. The only complaint you will ever have is its price, because its high cost is the only drawback to choosing this case. It is exceedingly thin, has strong magnets inside, and weighs barely anything. Thinborne added two more colors, so the case now comes in black, red, and blue. If you can afford it, this is the optimal Galaxy Z Fold 8 case.

Now if you want to set your sights to a lower price bracket, there are still plenty of decent options with reasonable drop-proofing and handy add-ons like a magnetic ring. The FNTCASE Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Translucent Matte Case only costs $27, but that pricing isn't indicative of the quality. I have tested many cases from the brand and found them to perform really well. It comes in pink, blue, and black, and you can also get a clear variant but that has a glossy finish. FNTCASE promises military-grade shock-proofing, and the Fold 8's spine has been thickly reinforced.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 was unveiled just moments ago, but companies like T-Mobile have wasted no time in dropping some exceptional preorder deals ahead of the August 7th release date. Add a line with the Experience Beyond plan and trade in an old or broken phone and the Big Three carrier will hook you up with enough promo credits to make the new Z Fold 8 completely free! 

Sure, T-Mobile's Experience Beyond may not be the cheapest unlimited plan around, but it's nothing that $1,900 of potential savings can't fix. If you're interested in one of the most innovative phones of 2026 and you were planning to update your wireless service anyway, this deal is worth grabbing ASAP. 

T-Mobile will already give you the Galaxy Z Fold 8 for FREE with new deal

Samsung just unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 8 (alongside the Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8) during a Galaxy Unpacked event earlier today, and the phones are already turning heads. For starters, it's hard to describe the Z Fold 8 as a true successor to last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7, as Samsung has given the phone a shorter and wider, "passport-style" design.

This new look makes the phone easy to pocket and use with one hand while folded, while unfolding the device gives you an experience akin to an Android tablet. And as usual, the foldable phone's two AMOLED display are absolutely stunning and smooth as butter. Under the hood, you still get the powerful Z Fold experience that we've all come to know and love, with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and all of the latest AI-boosted software tricks. The phone does clock in at $1,899, however, so deals like the T-Mobile promotion above are essential.  

What about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?

It's official: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 has arrived, and it doesn't disappoint. One problem, however, is that the innovative foldable now boasts a starting price of $1,199.99 for the 256GB configuration, which is $100 more expensive than its predecessor.

Fortunately, I'm already hard at work tracking down the best Galaxy Z Flip 8 preorder deals so you don't have to go searching. We haven't seen too many offers just yet, but you can already make this premium flip phone considerably cheaper if you play your cards right. Keep reading for my recommendations, and don't forget to check back later to see what's new: I'll keep adding new offers to this list as I find them.

Quick links

• Samsung Unpacked LIVE: latest news and everything that was announced
• The best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra deals
  
• T-Mobile: Get the Z Flip 8 for $100 with eligible plan
• Samsung: up to $600 off with trade-in, free credit
• Verizon: TBA
• AT&T: up to $1,000 off with trade-in, new line
• Amazon: free $200 gift card with preorder
• Best Buy: free $200 gift card with preorder

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 deals

FAQ

When does the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 come out?

Alongside the book-style Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is scheduled for release on August 7th. This gives you just a few weeks to take advantage of the preorder offers detailed above.

How much does the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 cost?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 will start at $1,199.99 / €1,299.00 / £1,149.00 for the 256GB configuration of the phone. That's $100 more expensive than last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7, which was already more expensive than its predecessor. This price increase is even further proof that no one is exempt from the ongoing RAM crisis, which is why finding good deals is so important nowadays.

I already own the Galaxy Z Flip 7. Is it worth upgrading?

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 and last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7 share a lot of similarities on the design and hardware side, especially at first glance. Both flip phones come with 12GB of RAM and a 4,300mAh battery, and they feature virtually identical camera systems and displays, although the Z Flip 8 does clock in at 8 grams lighter than its predecessor. The Z Flip 8 also uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, which is a bit more powerful than the last generation's Exynos chip.

Do these minor upgrades justify the $100 price increase? It's a tough call, but if you're already happy with your Galaxy Z Flip 7, I see no reason to rush to the store to grab the new phone. On the other hand, if you're a flip phone fanatic, the Z Flip 8 offers one of the best experiences around.

The boxy Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is available in three standard colors, plus an online exclusive, totaling up to four shades overall. As trying as it can be to try to choose only one shade to buy from four different colors, it can also be a good thing. You might come across a shade that you didn't even know you'd love!

Without further ado, let me help you decide which Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 colorway you should buy. To start things off, let us walk through the colors. Familiarize yourself with what your choices are, then you can identify your winner.

A walk through all the colors of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

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Buying the right Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 colorway: A helpful guide

Trying to decide which Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 color should you buy? Now that you've had a good look at all the colorways the Fold 8 comes in, the decision must be easier to make. Of the four Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 colorways, two are basic safe choices. Graphite is the classic black option that almost always outsells all other shades, because most folks don't want bold colors. Cream is another such color, though white isn't as widely preferred as black.

I encourage you to take a risk and choose a color that speaks to you, however unusual it may be! The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 in Lavender is immediately recognizable as the Fold 8, plus it looks divine. The wide, boxy cut of the device is enhanced and accentuated in this light purple hue.

Exclusivity is an attractive feature to many. If you're gunning for something different and less widely available, the warm Pistachio colorway stands out. True to its name, Pistachio is a warm green color that is an online exclusive. If you do go for Pistachio, bear in mind that spare parts for less popular colors can be harder to acquire. So if you're a clumsy, accident prone person who doesn't use impact proof phone cases, best to err on the side of caution and stick with one of the three standard colors instead.

At July's Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event, the company finally unveiled it's latest line of foldables and smartwatches. The foldables are pretty much bang on in line with all the leaked images we've seen over the past few months. What I wasn't expecting was the shake up in the naming convention, which understanably, is bound to cause a bit of confusion.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the flagship model and will be replacing the Galaxy Z Fold 7, while the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 is actually a cheaper and wider version of the flagship, previously dubbed as the 'Wide Edition.'

It's now been full year since the Galaxy Z Fold 7's existence and it's already officially selling for $400 lower than the launch price, and this is outside sale season. This could dip further in the months to come as Samsung tries to empty its inventory.

If you've skipped the Galaxy Z Fold 7 or have been waiting for the new Fold 8 series to launch, should you spring for the latest Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra or save a few hundred Benjamins with the older (but still great) model?

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7: Pricing and availability

Our fears did come true as Samsung has raised prices by $100. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra now starts at $2,099.99 and this is for the 256GB variant. There are also 512GB and 1TB storage options, with only the latter getting 16GB of RAM. The tiers below come with 12GB of RAM. Violet Shadow is the new hero color for the Z Fold 8 Ultra, while the other two are Graphite and Cream. Samung will be bundling a six-month complementary subscription to the AI Pro plan, with every Z Fold 8 Ultra.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be a year old now and is already retailing for less, starting at $1,499.99 for 256GB and going up to $2,000 for the 1TB variant. There could be a further price drop before it goes out of circulation so you should keep an eye on this if you want to save a good chunk of change. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 had one of the best colors of all the Fold phones yet and has proven to be hugely popular showing strong demand in the U.S. market.

The recent rise in component costs have caught up though as Samsung quietly bumped up the MSRPs of the higher storage variants by $80. Compared to the new Z Fold 8 Ultra though, you're still saving quite a bit.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7: Design and display

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra looks pretty much identical to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, and that's fine. The Fold 7 got a major design overhaul just last year making the slimmest Fold yet. The Z Fold 8 Ultra is a tiny bit thinner at 4.1mm when unfolded, but measures the same 8.9mm when folded.

The weight of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has also stayed the same at 215 grams, despite Samsung using a larger battery. Physically, you really shouldn't notice too much of a difference between the two phones even if you hold them side by side.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 scored well in terms of build quality and durabililty but it only had an IP48 rating for dust and water resistance. Sadly, this hasn't improved on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. The water proofing is still okay, but the phone still lacks proper dust proofing. In comparison, the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 feature IP58 and IP59 dust and water resistance, while the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold has an IP68 rating.

The displays on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra gets some nice upgrades. The folding screen is still 8 inches, but Samsung has bumped up the resolution to 2,504x2,256. Compared to the already high resolution of 1,968x2,184 on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, the Fold 8 Ultra should offer even crisper visuals and sharper text.

The outer display on the Fold 8 Ultra has stayed pretty much the same, but it does get more durable protection in the form of Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3. There were murmurs a few months back that support for the S Pen will be brought back in the Z Fold 8 Ultra, but that hasn't happened.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7: Hardware and software

Samsung typically ships the Galaxy Z Fold devices with flagship chipsets, and it's done the same once again with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. The foldable features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset for Galaxy devices, same as the ones used in the Galaxy S26 series.

Another big upgrade that Samsung has delivered in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is a larger battery. We finally have a 5,000mAh capacity battery which should deliver a good battery life boost over the 4,400mAh in the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Charging speed has also increased to 45W from the measly 25W on the previous model. I would have liked to see 60W wired charging like the Galaxy S26 Ultra but I'll take anything above 25W at this point. Qi2 charging is still not native as the Z Fold 8 Ultra lacks in-built magnets. You'll have to use a compatible case for Qi2.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra ships with One UI 9, that's based on Android 17. Samsung has been testing One UI 9 in beta for a while on S26 devices, giving users a glimpse of what to expect. Some of the new features include an upgraded Quick Panel with toggles for the brightness, sound, and media player now being independently adjustable. There's a new Text Spotlight feature that shows selected text in a larger floating window. There's plenty more AI and user interface features to unpack, so stay tuned for our detailed guide.

Many of these One UI 9 features should also make their way to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with future updates. It's possible that some might be hardware dependent so expect a few to be missing when you update your Z Fold 7 to One UI 9.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7: Cameras

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 got a 200MP main camera upgrade just last year, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra uses the same one. But it finally gets a higher-resolution 50MP ultrawide camera, which should bring about a tangible quality improvement. A leak had suggested that the Z Fold 8 Ultra would get a 12MP telephoto, but this hasn't turned out to be true. It's still 10MP with an optical zoom of 3X.

The selfie cameras on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra have also gone unchanged. You still get the two 10MP sensors on the outer and inner screens. We loved the cameras on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 when we tested it so having better sensors in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra would have made it more competitive against foldables like the OPPO Find N6.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra vs. Galaxy Z Fold 7: Which one should you buy?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has gotten more expensive but you're also getting some worthwhile upgrades like a newer SoC, larger battery with quicker charging, a sharper folding screen, and a better ultrawide camera. The only reason to buy this at launch is if you're getting a good trade-in deal or pre-order discounts. Otherwise, I'd wait a few months till Samsung inevitably slashes the price itself.

If you need to pull the trigger right away, you can't go wrong with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. It now retails for lower than what it launched for, it's incredibly slim and light, and you won't have any issues with performance. Keep in mind that we didn't find the battery life to be great and there's no S Pen support if that's something you think you'll need.

Samsung is offering the same colors of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 as it did with the previous-gen Galaxy Z Flip 7 which came in four colors. This makes it easy for you to choose a color, even if one of the four shades is an online exclusive. The colors are largely "safe" options, with only two colorful shades to choose from.

Before cashing in on a single choice, take a good look at all the finishes available at launch to help you decide which Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 color should you buy.

Check out all the colors of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

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Three colors, one choice: Picking the right Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 color made easy

Answering the question of which Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 color should you buy isn't too difficult. You can either stick with your safest bet, which the plain black Graphite colorway, or choose something light and pastel.

If you're not one to stick with the traditional black colorway, you'll have to be excited about lighter shades. The Z Flip 8 comes in three other shades, the last of which is online exclusive: Pink, Cream, and Mint.

Pink is a blushing rosy hue that isn't entirely new to Samsung's Flip series. Just like Mint is a recurring shade across generations, the Galaxy Z Flip 3, Flip 4, and Flip 5 all came in similar pinky shades as well. If you're feeling nostalgic, either Pink or Mint will both be great Flip 8 colors for you.

However, if you're not looking to attract too much attention without being too predictable, Cream is a good choice to consider. A pale white hue is a minimalist's dream. It is different without being overtly attention grabbing.

Choosing to buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is easy. After all, it's Samsung's largest dual-fold smartphone yet. What's hard is making a decision on which Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra color should you buy. That's why I'm here to make things easy for you. First, you need to appreciate all the different colors it comes in and then figure out which one is the right match for you.

Bathe in the glory of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and its four shades

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra comes in a range of deep, elegant colors

I am loving the color scheme of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. This gigantic foldable comes in a squad of deep, elegant colors. With the exception of Cream, every single shade is on the darker side. Violet Shadow is the hero, a mesmerizing shade of dark indigo that's almost black in certain lighting. It is sure to be very popular with the crowds.

I usually suggest opting for the black colorway of the phone when in doubt, but Violet Shadow is dark enough to appease even those who would usually choose Graphite to be safe. Why play it safe when you can get the signature new color of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?

Meanwhile, if dark indigo isn't your jam, Green Shadow is a charming shade to consider. I know a lot of people have very strong opinions about green, but trust me on this one. Green Shadow is a smokey, forest green hue that exudes class and sophistication. It's not asking for attention, but it's easy on the eyes nonetheless.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Pricing and availability

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 made its debut at Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked launch event in London on July 22, 2026, and it is now on sale globally. The smartwatch retails for $699, and that's pretty decent when you consider you're getting 64GB of storage and a ton of new features.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 launched at $649, the same as its predecessor. Which is understandable as the smartwatch didn't actually bring any new features, and other than double the amount of onboard storage, it was identical to the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024. Thankfully, that's not the case this year.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Design and features

Samsung is changing the design of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 a little bit; the smartwatch has a squircle case that's made out of titanium, and the design looks a lot cleaner than the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025. Samsung is offering the smartwatch in Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray, and we'll need to wait and see if both models are available in all global regions.

What I like the most is that the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is significantly thinner at 10mm (versus 12.1mm); this was a big pain point with the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 and 2025 models, and it's good to see Samsung addressing it. Another change has to do with durability; the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets IP69K ingress protection, giving it added resilience against dust and water ingress.

You still get a massive 47mm case, and I like that Samsung didn't change this. The display is slightly bigger at 1.52 inches thanks to thinner bezels, and the resolution is also a little higher at 498x498 (Ultra 2025 has 480x480). But where the Watch Ultra 2 stands out the most is the overall brightness; Samsung is somehow touting brightness of up to 5,000 nits, and that's a significant boost from the 3,000-nit Watch Ultra 2025.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Hardware and specs

If I had to point to a single upgrade that makes the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 truly stand out, it would be the battery. The smartwatch comes with an 800mAh battery, and this is an area where Samsung absolutely did the right thing. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025's 590mAh battery is decent enough, but the much bigger battery should allow the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 to last even longer.

Powering the smartwatch is the latest Snapdragon Wear Elite, and this again is a big change; last year's model had the Exynos W1000, and the switch to Qualcomm should deliver better efficiency, boosting battery life even more. The smartwatch gets 2GB of memory and 64GB of storage as standard, and it retains similar connectivity as last year's model, including NFC.

Coming to fitness and health monitoring, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets Samsung's BioActive Sensor, and it includes all the hardware needed to monitor vitals and daily activity. You get Samsung's Wear OS 7 out of the box with One UI 9 Watch, and there's a lot to like with the software in general. Samsung is the way to go if you want the best Android smartwatch, and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 continues that momentum on the software front.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025: Which should you buy?

There's no doubt in my mind: if you're ready to upgrade to a bigger smartwatch, you need to buy the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. It has exciting upgrades across the board, and the thinner design combined with a bigger battery and brighter AMOLED panel make it a much better choice.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is still a decent choice if you're able to get a sizeable discount, but of the two, I'd suggest getting the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 — it's just a better all-round smartwatch.

What you need to know

• Qualcomm now powers Samsung's entire AI ecosystem, expanding beyond foldables into Galaxy smartwatches and upcoming AI smart glasses.
• The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy promises faster on-device AI, stronger gaming performance, smarter cameras, and better power efficiency to Samsung's latest foldables.
• Samsung's first Snapdragon-powered smartwatches debut with the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2, using Snapdragon Wear Elite for more personalized health tracking and AI experiences.

Samsung’s new Galaxy launch was more than just foldables. Qualcomm also used the occasion to show just how much deeper its partnership with Samsung has become, with Snapdragon chips now powering the company's newest phones, smartwatches, and its upcoming AI-powered smart glasses.

The biggest upgrade is for Samsung’s flagship foldables. Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy powers the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8, and, in select markets, the Galaxy Z Flip 8. Qualcomm says the custom chip blends its Oryon CPU, next-gen NPU, and upgraded GPU for faster on-device AI, better gaming performance, smarter camera features, and improved power efficiency.

And the collaboration isn’t limited to smartphones. Samsung’s wearables lineup is also seeing a significant shakeup, with the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 set to be the company’s first smartwatches to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform.

Qualcomm says the platform was built around “Personal AI” that employs advanced sensor fusion to better understand user activity throughout the day, providing more proactive health insights while maintaining strong connectivity and performance.

Perhaps the most interesting expansion is outside of phones and watches. Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google are expanding their Android XR partnership to include intelligent eyewear with the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platform. Samsung already unveiled new smart glasses designs with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, with larger collections slated for market later this fall.

Qualcomm says the platform is meant to enable more contextual AI experiences in lightweight glasses as opposed to bulky headsets.

Android Central's Take

If Snapdragon can actually deliver seamless AI across your phone, watch, and future smart glasses, you’ll be greeted with experiences that feel genuinely connected, rather than a bunch of isolated features. That said, we’ve heard enough of these “AI ecosystem” promises before, and not all of them have lived up to the hype. The real test will be Samsung’s ability to make those features useful enough that people actually notice them outside of launch-day demos.

The Flip 8 is slimmer and lighter than ever, so be sure to grab one or two of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 cases. You don't want to take away from the thinness or lightness of such a compact foldable, so be sure to grab a sturdy, scratch-proof phone case that isn't bulky or heavy. I have rounded up the best options available right here for your perusal, be it hinge protection you're looking for or extras like magnetic Qi2 support.

Protective phone cases for your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

• Back to the top ^

Breaking down how to pick the right case for your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

There are hundreds of phone cases out there, but only a few of them qualify as the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 cases. A stalwart case for a foldable needs to allow for uninterrupted folding and unfolding, and it can't be too thick either. People buy foldables like the Flip 8 for the lightness and thinness, after all, and a thick case takes that away.

Thinborne continues to be the gift that keeps on giving. This Texas-based brand always delivers on every vital front: slimness, lightness, and handiness. The Thinborne Galaxy Z Flip 8 Aramid Fiber Magnetic Case is a marvel, measuring just 0.04 inches thin and weighing just 15.9 grams. It is almost like having a Dbrand skin on instead of a phone case. What's harder to believe is that Thinborne somehow embedded powerful magnets inside this aerospace-grade 600D aramid fiber case. The ultra-premium build does have one unfortunate consequence: it makes the case insanely expensive.

If you don't want to spend $80 on the Thinborne case, you still have plenty of excellent Z Flip 8 cases to choose from. However, none of them get as thin as the Thinborne case.

Spigen is one of the top smartphone case manufacturers in the world. For the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8, I recommend two of Spigen's classic models: the Ultra Hybrid Pro MagFit and Nano Pop MagFit. Both are slim, magnetic, and add reasonable shock absorption, and they are priced affordably as well. If you want to be able to admire the color of your Galaxy Z Flip 8, I recommend the see-through Spigen Ultra Hybrid Pro MagFit.

The big day has arrived, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder deals are trickling in. Whether you want the ultra-wide Z Fold 8 or the super-powered Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, there are already a few ways to save money on these premium foldables before they hit store shelves on August 7th. Considering that the devices start at a steep $1,899, I'll take just about any offer I can get.

Unlike some phone releases that feel purely perfunctory, Samsung is really changing things up with its newest book-style foldable phones. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 sports a brand new form factor that we've compared to a passport, while the brand new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is one of the largest foldables we've ever seen.

These phones aren't just pretty to look at, however. They also feature incredible specs under the hood, with powerful Snapdragon chips, useful AI-boosted software features, and years of guaranteed OS updates. As usual, they're also pretty expensive, so I've dropped all of the web's best Z Fold 8 preorder deals into this guide. Didn't find anything yet? Check back later: we're sure to see more offers go live in the coming days.

Quick links

• Samsung Unpacked LIVE: latest news and everything that was announced
• The best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 preorder deals
• T-Mobile: FREE Galaxy Z Fold 8 with eligible trade-in, new line
• Verizon: new line savings, trade-in deals
• Samsung: up to $1,200 of trade-in credit
• Amazon: free $350 gift card with purchase
• Best Buy: trade-in savings, free gift cards
• AT&T: FREE Z Fold 8 with eligible trade-in, new line

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 deals

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra deals

FAQ

How much does the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 cost?

The new wide-style Galaxy Z Fold 8 is set to cost $1,899.99 for the 256GB version, while the Fold 8 Ultra will start at $2,099 USD. Samsung's foldable phones have always been expensive, but the ongoing RAM crisis has contributed to increased prices across the board. It's just one more reason why the above preorder deals are so essential.

When does the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 come out?

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 lineup is set to officially hit store shelves on August 7th, which gives you just over two weeks to take advantage of the deals above.

How does the Galaxy Z Fold 8 compare to the Z Fold 8 Ultra?

It may sound strange, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the true successor to last year's Galaxy Z Fold 7. Starting at $2,099, the phone boasts virtually identical dimensions to last year's foldable with an upgraded 5,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, and 12GB of RAM for the 256GB and 512GB models. It also weighs just 215 grams, which is the same as last year's model. The fact that Samsung was able to pack a larger battery into the same thin frame as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is impressive, but some folks may be disappointed that the design is otherwise largely unchanged.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, on the other hand, is where things start to look interesting. The phone boasts a 7.6-inch main display and 5.5-inch cover display (both stunning AMOLED, of course), resulting in a device that looks a bit like a passport book. Clocking in at just 201 grams, the Z Fold 8 also comes with the same Snapdragon chip as the Ultra, plus a 4,800mAh battery, the latest AI-boosted software features, and up to 16GB of RAM. Moreover, the Z Fold 8 is $200 cheaper than the Ultra.

Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 worth it?

It depends! If you already own a foldable phone, such as the Z Fold 7 or the Motorola Razr Fold, there's really no reason to upgrade right away. These OEMs push out new foldable phones every year, so it's okay (and probably financially responsible) for you to skip a generation here and there.

On the other hand, if you want to try the latest in foldable phone technology and you're able to get a good deal that works with your budget, the Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra really do offer some of the most innovative Android experiences around.

What you need to know

• Samsung quietly abandoned stylus support for both the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, just like the Z Fold 7.
• The missing S Pen leaves a productivity gap, removing a tool that made handwritten notes, document annotation, and sketching easy on the Fold's large inner display.
• Marketing the Fold 8 Ultra as the ultimate productivity machine while removing the very hardware tool that made previous generations so effective sends mixed signals to users.

Samsung just launched its Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, but one longtime Fold feature is absent. Samsung has quietly ditched S Pen support from the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra (again) after years of marketing the Fold as a productivity-first device, with no mention of stylus support anywhere in its official announcement, spec sheets, or otherwise.

This is despite Samsung doubling down on AI-powered productivity. The new Fold line-up is all about multitasking with Galaxy AI, Gemini Intelligence, split-screen workflows, and larger displays leading the way.

Additionally, the Fold 8 Ultra is billed as the company’s ultimate productivity machine, combining an 8-inch display with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip, a 5,000mAh battery, and a 200MP main camera. The standard Fold 8 has a lighter 201g design, a 4,800mAh battery, and dual 50MP cameras but retains the same flagship chipset.

What’s missing is any mention of the S Pen that used to help separate Samsung’s book-style foldables from the competition. In previous iterations of the Fold (except the Z Fold 7), the stylus was a peripheral, giving users a way to handwrite notes, annotate documents, and scribble on the large inner display.

This decision is even more surprising given that the new Fold lineup is designed to help users do more with AI and features like Gemini Notebook, drag-and-drop multitasking, and app automation across more than 40 apps and services supported. Those upgrades double down on the Fold’s productivity focus, but they also make the lack of pen input feel like an even bigger compromise.

Android Central's Take

Samsung seems to be giving off mixed signals here. You can’t market the Fold 8 as the ultimate productivity phone and then quietly take away one of the tools that actually made it feel productive. Sure, AI can summarize meetings and organize notes, but it can’t replace the precision of putting pen to paper. But if Samsung wants Fold users to embrace an AI-first future, it also has to remember that sometimes the smartest feature isn’t AI at all — it’s letting people write things down.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Pricing and availability

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Galaxy Watch 9 at a launch event in London on June 22, 2026. Both smartwatches are now on pre-order globally, with sales starting shortly.

Like previous years, Samsung has two models of the Galaxy Watch 9: 40mm and 40mm. The 40mm model with Bluetooth costs $379, and if you need LTE, you'll need to pay $429. The 44mm Bluetooth variant is $409, and the LTE model is $459. There's a modest increase from last year, but the Galaxy Watch 9 is still an affordable choice.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, on the other hand, retails for $699, a $50 increase. You are getting an extensive feature-set, bigger battery, and titanium chassis, and that's reflected in the cost.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Design and display

The Galaxy Watch 9 looks identical to its predecessor, and that's a good thing. You still get a smartwatch that looks great, and it's just as thin (8.6mm) and light (34g) as the Galaxy Watch 8.

Samsung didn't change its choice of materials either, so you get an aluminum case with a plastic housing on the underside to accommodate the BioActive module. Like last year, the Galaxy Watch 9 is sold in 40mm and 44mm variants, and Samsung is even selling the same color models. There's no rotating bezel on either device, but you get side-mounted buttons.

If you're looking to get a watch that looks different to last year, you'll need to pick up the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. It has a significantly thinner design that looks much better this time, and the 47mm case gives it a dominating presence that you just don't get with the 44mm Galaxy Watch 9. It's made out of titanium, and has better durability as well — 10ATM and IP69K versus 5ATM and IP68 of the Galaxy Watch 9.

Coming to the display, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 gets a 1.52-inch AMOLED that goes up to a ridiculous 5,000 nits. The 44mm Galaxy Watch 9 has the same 1.47-inch panel as last year, and the 40mm model retains the 1.34-inch screen, with both going up to 3,000 nits. Outside of that, you don't see much of a difference between the two smartwatches.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Features and specs

What's good to see is that both smartwatches use the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite. Ahead of launch, it was unclear if the Galaxy Watch 9 would come with last year's Exynos W100 instead of the new Qualcomm silicon, and Samsung did the right thing by using Qualcomm across the board.

While the hardware itself is exciting, Samsung turned its attention to the software this year, and both smartwatches have a ton of new health and fitness features. There's Energy Tracking, Sleep Apnea Detection, a new running-focused feature, and Vitals, a dashboard that gives you a broad overview of your vitals in one area.

You also get a new Nutrition Alert feature alongside Trail Run that measures detailed elevation changes and climbing progress. And as for the software, both smartwatches run the latest Wear OS 7 with Samsung's One UI 9 Watch. Samsung does a great job with the software in general, and One UI 9 Watch has the best feature-set of any Android smartwatch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 vs. Galaxy Watch 9: Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Galaxy Watch 9 is entirely down to what you need in a smartwatch. If you need a smaller watch that nails the basics and looks stylish, just get the Galaxy Watch 9. You're not missing out on the essentials, and this is a proven design that has worked really well for Samsung in the last two years.

But if you want a bigger smartwatch that grabs attention, you should get the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. Yes, it costs a lot more, but you also get a bigger screen that gets much brighter, much bigger battery that lasts nearly twice as long, better durability, and a titanium design that looks exquisite. If I had to choose a model between these two, I'm getting the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 anytime — it's much more exciting.

Samsung is set to fully launch its "Intelligent Eyewear" this fall, and at Unpacked, the company gave us a look at its designs from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. I've already played with prototype Android XR glasses a few times, but this is my first time getting hands-on time with production design models, and I feel like it's finally starting to come together.

However, given how long it's taking Google and Samsung to bring these to market, I'm wondering if this new effort can survive the hurdles of a shifting public opinion on smart glasses.

AI meets style

The models I got to handle were not functioning products, but just something to give us a peek at what we're getting ahead of the actual launch. So while I couldn't actually use the glasses or even put them on my face, I at least got to hold them and get a feel for them, and I was quite impressed.

Of the new designs I got to see, the Gentle Monster model caught my eye, as I prefer its more classic style, which is closer to the kinds of glasses I wear. However, the Warby Parker glasses looked more stylish, so I'm sure there will still be plenty of appeal for these.

This is why Samsung's partnerships with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker are so important, as highlighted by James Choi, corporate EVP and head of XR R&D at Samsung.

"They must first be something people really want to wear every day. After all, this is eyewear. People want a natural, stylish fashion item, not a piece of technology on their face," he said during a round table briefing.

Not only did the glasses look relatively thin; they also felt surprisingly light. Weight is generally a major hurdle when it comes to smart glasses, so lighter glasses mean less chance of fatigue. Furthermore, the relatively thin design helps them look less like tech and blend in as glasses.

Despite their thin, lightweight design, the glasses are still quite durable, and Samsung has ensured "mobile-grade quality assurance," so they should be able to withstand a fall.

Choi also highlighted something called Power Camp, a joint effort between Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm to optimize battery life and tune software and data streamlining.

And while the glasses are powered by the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1, they will leverage the phone's memory and compute to provide faster responses and relevant data protections.

As a result, the glasses can get up to an estimated nine hours of mixed-use battery life using the camera, listening to music, and triggering Gemini (and/or Bixby), with an additional seven full charges with the case. You'll also be able to control them with Wear OS watches and connect with apps like Maps, Interpreter, and Samsung Notes through the glasses.

The elephant in the room...

Public opinion around smart glasses has taken a bit of a turn lately. Despite Ray-Ban Meta glasses being available for years, consumers are starting to turn on them, especially after a few missteps, reports of always-on glasses, and the current smear campaign against the glasses. So how is Samsung approaching the market given the shifting tides?

Choi says privacy is not an afterthought but the core of how Samsung is developing these new glasses. That means including things like the LED indicator light to show when the camera is in use, as well as wear detection to disable the camera if the user takes off the glasses or even covers the LED.

But there is a concern that perhaps more needs to be done. Choi makes it clear that navigating public perception is not easy, especially in different cultures, and recognizes that it's a shared industry problem. He notes that Samsung is constantly in communication with governments to ensure they're meeting regulations, and the hope is that they are able to come to some sort of solution while still fostering the development of new technologies such as these.

For now, it sounds like Samsung and Google are doing their part, but the onus is on governing bodies to instill regulations that make everyone happy. I just hope this doesn't sully the launch of a product I'm genuinely interested in. After all, Google already had its Glasshole moment; it would be a shame for Android XR to also be relegated as just another pair of "pervert glasses."

What you need to know

• Google shared details about a few Gemini updates, which coincide with Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked reveals.
• Google reiterates Gemini's presence on Intelligent Eyewear (Samsung collab); however, Galaxy Watch 9 users can raise their wrist to activate the AI, all without saying a word.
• Gemini Notebook is pre-installed on Samsung's new foldables, but Galaxy Z Fold 8 users can take full advantage of their multitasking capabilities, dragging and dropping content from other apps into the AI notebook.

It's Samsung's day, but Google has a few updates to offer users interested in everything revealed at Galaxy Unpacked.

Google shared a press release this morning (July 22), reiterating its recent collaboration with Samsung for Intelligent Eyewear. While the two have joined hands before (primarily for phones), these smart glasses are the next step. Google reminds us that Gemini on Intelligent Eyewear provides helpfulness in a way beyond phones. However, Google's bringing a little more to Samsung's new watch. Intelligent Eyewear is also receiving two new frames following Unpacked, which you can view below.

The Galaxy Watch 9 is receiving a little Gemini update for convenience. Google says users need only "raise their wrist," and the AI will activate. Users don't have to say "Hey Google" or "Hey Gemini." Raising your wrist opens its digital ears for your questions or tasks.

Gemini Intelligence continues its round of Galaxy Unpacked updates, as Google introduced a "task automation" expansion. This feature lets users give Gemini tasks that are rather mundane. Tasks like ordering food or items from your favorite online store. Google states task automation is expanding to more than 40 apps. What's more, this expansion gives Gemini the ability to understand what's on your screen.

If there's an item you've found, you can ask Gemini to find "something similar" on Etsy or another store, and order it for you. Users can track Gemini's progress in completing the task you've given it, as well. Google says this gives users the chance to cut in and correct anything before handing the task back to Gemini. Of course, any transactions fall solely on the user to complete.

With the Galaxy Z Flip 8's launch today, users can begin task automation on its Flex Window by long-pressing the power button.

Unpacking Gemini updates

On-device AI continues to advance with an interest in remaining useful. Google announced that Gemini Notebook (previously NotebookLM) is pre-installed on the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Fold 8. However, it's the larger sibling—the Galaxy Z Fold 8—that lets users take full advantage of the multitasking. Gemini Notebook can hold pages, videos, and more that you've found from other apps while you're searching.

Google highlights that users can have Chrome open on one side of the Fold 8 and Gemini Notebook on the other. This lets you easily drag and drop before handing off itinerary generation to Gemini. There is a chat function available. Users can chat with Gemini, asking questions about sources and more to create "high-quality" slide decks, videos, quizzes, and more.

One more thing: Samsung and Google introduced a new "native migration experience built directly into Android 17." The blog post states this lets users "transfer even more data types from an iPhone wirelessly—without downloading a separate app." Users can transfer photos, videos, contacts, messages, and calendar info. New supported data now includes your Google Account, passwords, Wi-Fi details, and eSIM. Much of this data was mentioned previously by Google's product lead for Android Onboarding and Android Settings, Paul Dunlop, when discussing what Android 17 would change for Android Switch.

Intelligent Eyewear debuted during Google I/O in May. The glasses, with frames from Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, merged style with technology. Users could talk to Gemini for navigational purposes, order pickups, and photo capture. Samsung joined the discussion, stating users could pair Intelligent Eyewear with their phones for hands-free assistance.

Android Central's Take

Task automation was already an eye-catching addition when the Galaxy S26 series debuted. To see it now begin expanding to more apps is another thumbs up from me. I like when AI is useful. It's nice that it continues to walk you through its progress via on-screen notifications (even on your lock screen).

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked in London is underway, and the company has revealed the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2.
• The Galaxy Watch 9 is lighter with a more comfortable fit on the wrist, delivering major health features like Vitals and Heart Health Score.
• The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 continues its rugged focus for users who dive, run, swim, and more with new Trail Run and Diver-focused automatic tracking.
• Samsung has started pre-orders: the Galaxy Watch 9 (40mm, 44mm) starts at $379 for Bluetooth, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 begins at $699.

The moment we've been waiting for is here: Samsung's Unpacked revealed its next-gen smartwatches, and this is everything you need to know.

Today (July 22), Samsung held its Galaxy Unpacked event in London, U.K., to discuss what's next for its portfolio. Headlining the event are the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and the Galaxy Watch 9. The latter is where we're beginning this early morning. Samsung stressed during its keynote that the Galaxy Watch 9 is the "ultimate everyday companion." The watch has been upgraded for consumers who take their health seriously and are looking to "build healthy habits."

The Galaxy Watch 9's design sticks close to what we received with the Galaxy Watch 8. The device offers that squircle design: a circular watch face atop a square frame. However, Samsung states the Watch 9 has been equipped with a "lightweight, yet durable chassis." The watch has been refined for a closer fit against your wrist that is intended to feel more natural, enhancing comfort.

Internally, Samsung revealed that the Galaxy Watch 9 features Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. The SoC's major highlights include improvements to the device's speed and efficiency, reducing the lag users might experience when swiping through the watch's UI. It also goes without saying that the Wear Elite SoC will help the Watch 9's 390mAh battery, too.

Unpacking Samsung's health features, the company states the Galaxy Watch 9 features a BioActive sensor, which captures "continuous biometric data about a user’s lifestyle habits to develop a deep understanding of their wellness." Users will find features like Sleep Apnea (FDA clearance-backed), Daily Cardio Score, Fitness Index, and Hearing, helping to protect their ear health.

What's more, Samsung reminds us of Vitals and Heart Health Score. Many might remember these two (the Hearing feature, too) from the Health app's huge update in June. Vitals will "proactively" watch the user's health baseline while they sleep to provide alerts about deviations. The Heart Health Score focuses on your cardiovascular wellness with a simple score that helps users understand if they should "take action."

If you're looking at the Galaxy Watch 9, Samsung says you'll find an assortment of new bands. Consumers can pick from Sports, Misty, and Fabric bands. Each offers a different experience, ranging from the thin, soft all-rounder Sports band to the soft silicone Misty band for a stable, bounce-free fit.

The Galaxy Watch 9 comes in 40mm and 44mm variants, starting at $379 for its Bluetooth model and $429 for its LTE version. Pre-orders begin July 22 before its full market launch on August 7. Samsung Care Plus is available to help protect your watch from damage, but there are extra goodies for consumers. A 60-day trial for Strava and a two-month iFIT free trial are available for the Galaxy Watch 9 after purchase.

Galaxy is going Ultra (2)

The bigger, rugged-oriented Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is finally here. Samsung is calling the Watch Ultra 2 its "most powerful and advanced Galaxy Watch ever." Extreme outdoor shenanigans and users who live for high-performance activities are who the Watch Ultra 2 is designed for. While the device sticks to a familiar squircle design, the company states it has achieved a "thinner, innovative" build. The Watch Ultra 2 is thinner by ~12% compared to the first version. There have also been improvements to make it lighter, too.

Runners and climbers might also benefit from the watch's shock-resistant titanium casing.

Inside, the wearable features Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite SoC and a huge 800mAh battery (a 35% boost over the first version). There are several activities the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 supports, but this update has divers in mind. To aid professional divers, Samsung says the watch is rated IP69K, 10 ATM, and EN13319 certified. The Watch Ultra 2 will track your diving data (depth, time, water temp) from the moment you enter the water.

Samsung has created an Ultra-exclusive Diving app that users can lean on for advanced features. The company states the app will be available later in 2026. For all the landlubbers, Trail Run is a Watch Ultra 2 feature that "tracks detailed elevation, climbing progress, and terrain impact..." Real-time hydration guidance is provided via Nutrition Alert, pairing nicely with Sweat Loss.

Like the Galaxy Watch 9, the Watch Ultra 2 features an assortment of new bands: Marine, PeakForm, and Trail. Samsung Care Plus and the free trials for Strava and iFIT are also available for purchased Galaxy Watch Ultra 2s. Consumers will find the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for $699 for its 47mm size. You will also be able to choose between Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray colorways.

Pre-orders begin July 22 ahead of a full release on August 7.

After spending some time with the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, it's clear that this is a year of refinement for Samsung. These watches are essentially upgraded versions of their predecessors, and while there may not be many differences on the outside, one major upgrade on the inside makes all the difference.

The same but different

In terms of design, Samsung didn't change much about the latest watches. That said, once you hold them or put them next to their predecessors, you might be able to spot the changes. The Watch Ultra 2, for example, is noticeably thinner than its predecessor, shaving off roughly 2mm despite its massive 800mAh battery; a 210mAh increase.

This means it feels a bit better on your wrist, which is also aided by the new watch bands. They're thinner and more malleable, allowing the watch to sit flatter on surfaces and provide a better fit on your wrist. That said, the Watch Ultra 2 is still quite heavy, and I can't imagine wearing it throughout its roughly 60-hour battery life estimate (with AOD on).

As for the Galaxy Watch 9, the dimensions are roughly the same as the Watch 8, but Samsung managed to increase the battery a bit. Thickness is the same too, making the Watch 9 much more comfortable to wear than the Ultra 2 and probably something I can see myself rocking throughout the day.

That said, the Ultra 2 is built to appeal to outdoorsy types and anyone with a more rugged lifestyle, and some new features are clear indications of such. Trail Run, for example, is an Ultra 2-exclusive feature that will track a run on a trail while monitoring elevation, total climb, and total descent.

And for serious runners, Samsung is upgrading the Sweat Loss estimation with a Nutrition Alert to help you stay adequately hydrated.

That extra-rugged design also means professional divers can use the Watch Ultra 2 to track their dives with a new Diving app coming later this year. I didn't get to see this during my hands-on, but Samsung says the Mares-developed app will track real-time diving metrics.

Oh, and the screen is apparently really bright, reaching a 5,000 nits peak. I couldn't test this out in my enclosed environment, but the brighter screen will definitely help with outdoor visibility.

The upgrade I'm most excited about in both watches is the new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. It's Samsung's first time using a Snapdragon chip in its smartwatches, and it promises better performance, longer battery life, and better GPS tracking.

Qualcomm highlights improved AI capabilities thanks to the built-in NPU, meaning some AI tasks won't have to be routed to the phone. You can tell Gemini something like "what's my sleep score," and it will take you directly to the metric you're looking for in Samsung Health.

The new chip also enhances the capabilities of the BioActive sensor for enhanced accuracy and new features. Sleep Apnea insights, Heart Health, Daily Cardio Load, Hearing, and Fitness Index are all available on both watches to provide a more comprehensive look at your health.

Even without a Classic model, the Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 feel like they have something for everyone. The Ultra 2 feels like more of an upgrade, but the Watch 9 feels like the watch for most people and will still get many of the same features as the Ultra 2.

My hands-on time wasn't too in-depth, but we'll be reviewing both watches soon, so you can look forward to our coverage as we test these watches and pit them against some of our favorite fitness watches.

What you need to know

• Samsung just unveiled its latest foldable lineup, with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra targeting productivity and the Galaxy Z Flip 8 focusing on AI-powered convenience and self-expression.
• The Fold 8 Ultra packs an 8-inch display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a 5,000mAh battery, 45W charging, and Samsung's slimmest Fold design yet.
• The Flip 8's redesigned FlexWindow brings Now Brief, Gemini Intelligence, and connected tasks to the cover screen without unfolding the phone.
• Preorders are open now ahead of an August 7 launch, with the Fold 8 Ultra starting at $2,100 and the Flip 8 at $1,200, plus six months of Google AI Pro and 5TB of cloud storage.

Samsung is officially throwing out its mobile playbook by splitting its foldable lineup into two vastly different extremes.

Announced during today’s Galaxy Unpacked event, the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra takes the familiar Fold concept and pushes it into flagship territory. It boasts an 8-inch main display within Samsung’s slimmest Fold yet, measuring only 4.1mm when unfolded and weighing 215g.

Under the hood, it packs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, alongside a 5,000mAh battery, revamped cooling, and a new dual-path 45W charging system to keep performance steady during demanding workloads.

On the optics front, Samsung equips the Fold 8 Ultra with a 200MP main camera that now supports HDR shooting at full resolution, alongside a new 50MP ultrawide sensor. The phone also brings improved Nightography, 8K recording using the APV codec, and Cine LUT support for creators who want more control over color grading right on the device.

The Z Flip 8 is all about that FlexWindow life

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 goes in the opposite direction, making everyday interactions faster. This is Samsung’s slimmest and lightest Flip yet, measuring 6.1mm when unfolded and weighing 180g. The biggest change is the redesigned FlexWindow, which becomes an AI-first interface that can show Now Brief summaries, launch Gemini Intelligence actions, and handle connected tasks without opening the phone.

The Flip 8 also makes a big leap into content creation. You get a 50MP main camera powered by Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, Flex Mode for hands-free shooting, a camcorder grip with zoom rocker controls, Super Steady with a new Horizontal Lock mode, and Flip-exclusive features like FlipShot and Mirror View for easier selfies and quick appearance checks.

Both phones share Samsung's broader AI push, which includes Now Brief, Now Nudge, Gemini Intelligence with support in over 40 apps, and new privacy tools like the AI Assistant Activity dashboard and improved privacy alerts. They’re also debuting with Android 17 and One UI 9.

You can start preordering today, with a launch date of August 7. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra starts at $2,100 with up to 1TB of storage, while the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is priced at $1,200 with 256GB and 512GB configurations. Buyers also receive six months of Google AI Pro and 5TB of cloud storage.

Android Central's Take

I like that Samsung is finally giving its foldables their own identities, rather than making every model feel like a slightly different version of the same phone. If you’re considering an actual tablet or laptop replacement, the Fold 8 Ultra seems like the way to go, but the Flip 8 takes to convenience and AI in a way that feels more useful than gimmicky. That said, Samsung still has to persuade people it’s worth paying these premium prices. AI can help make your phone a little smarter, but it’s not going to magically make a $2,100 foldable feel like a bargain.

Samsung took the wraps off its new Galaxy Z Fold 8, and unlike previous years, we're getting two Folds instead of one. I got to spend some time with Samsung's new book-style foldables during its launch event in London, and they're very different, with one being an almost completely new form factor for the company.

Samsung is trying to target different audiences with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra. Frankly, I'm intrigued by the company's decision to double down on its most expensive smartphone segment. But while I was fully expecting to hate the wider, more compact design on the base Fold 8 (based solely on the leaks), I actually came away from my hands-on kind of loving it.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: Chasing "Ultra"

If the Galaxy Z Fold 7 was Samsung's tick year, then the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is the tock. That's not a bad thing because the device looks nearly identical to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, a phone that was something like Samsung's comeback device after a few missteps. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra follows that rather impressive device with some much-needed upgrades and refinements that help the phone earn that new Ultra moniker.

For one, the phone is actually thinner than its predecessor. In fact, Samsung says it's its thinnest foldable, measuring 4.1 mm when open. To be honest, I couldn't really tell the difference between the Z Fold 8 Ultra and the Z Fold 7 when put side by side, but the latter was already very impressively thin, and the Ultra is no less impressive.

Part of what makes it impressive is that Samsung managed to increase the battery quite a bit, bumping up from 4,400mah to 5,000mah! It's all because Samsung finally joined the silicon-carbon party, helping it to pack denser batteries into its latest foldables. It's still not the largest battery in a foldable, but it should help the phone fare better in daily use. The 45W wired charging is also a nice step up, although it notably falls behind competitors like the Razr Fold.

The display itself may not look much different, but you might notice something is missing: a crease. Okay, so it's not completely gone, but Samsung’s new Titanium Flex improves display durability and greatly reduces the crease, so it's nearly non-existent when viewing content or swiping across the screen.

Samsung also added an anti-reflective coating, so glare should be less of a problem when watching movies or reels.

Then there's the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, which gives the phone new superpowers. I got to play with some of the new AI features, including Gemini automation and the new Now Nudge capabilities. In my demo, Gemini took the context from a photo of the Eiffel Tower in the Gallery, then opened the Expedia app to book a stay for two adults nearby.

Now Nudge also feels much more useful across more areas of One UI 9. It can now trigger suggestions in places like the Google Messages app or within notifications, so you can respond more intuitively. It even lets you open suggestions in split-screen mode so you don't have to disrupt your flow, and when you're done with a Now Nudge task, the second app will automatically close for you.

I wasn't able to try the camera, but the upgraded 50MP ultrawide sensor and new Cine LUT features should give the Z Fold 8 more of an Ultra edge, even if the 10MP telephoto camera leaves a bit to be desired.

Galaxy Z Fold 8: Big things, small packages

But the real story here is the new Galaxy Z Fold 8. It's a new, wider foldable that feels like it's meant to capture the feeling of some older foldables like the Oppo Find N or Pixel Fold. However, Samsung decided to go with a shorter and wider 5.4-inch external screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio.

The result of such a short and wide stature is that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 feels like a passport in hand. It fits quite well in my hand and slides easily into my pocket, partly because it's so thin at 9.7mm. In fact, as soon as I held it, my preconceptions about the design immediately went out the window, and I fell in love with this phone.

I imagine my proclivity towards flip phones has something to do with it, but using the external display isn't as awkward as I thought it would be. If you're a frequent watcher of vertical videos, then you'll notice black bars on the sides, but apps seem to resize well, and horizontal videos look great.

That goes for the internal folding display. Opening the Galaxy Z Fold 8 reveals a 4:3 aspect ratio display that looks and feels like a small tablet (and honestly feels closer to 3:2. That means content like long-form videos look more natural on the screen than on the Ultra with fewer black bars, but turn the phone and vertical videos also feel right at home, giving you a bigger and better way to show off your favorite Reels.

Samsung also highlights how the inner display is ideal for things like reading articles or books, depending on how you orient the phone.

However, one aspect I like about this form factor when the device is open is multitasking. On the Ultra, you can have three split-screen apps open at once, with two sharing one side of the screen and one expanding on the other. With the Fold 8, you can have three apps side-by-side, which feels like a usability win.

Unfortunately, there are only two 50MP cameras on the rear, so it's not the most versatile imaging system. However, Samsung showed me a cool new My FanCam feature that can capture and resize a video while focusing on one subject.

Imagine you're recording a horizontal video of a performance and want to post a Reel of one particular dancer. You can select that person, and the AI will focus on them and crop to your desired aspect ratio.

It takes a lot of work out of converting videos for social media, and it's a feature I can't wait to play with a lot more.

Which Fold do you want?

After spending some time with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, it's clear Samsung is onto something. Starting at $1899, I'm not sure if doubling down on the pricier models will pay off, but for now, the cheaper model at least feels like the more compelling option, even if it's missing some of the "Ultra" specs.

What you need to know

• Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold 8 adopts a wider passport-style design that feels much closer to a compact tablet when unfolded.
• The Galaxy Z Fold 8 shares the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip as the Ultra while starting $200 cheaper.
• The standard Fold 8 trades the Ultra's triple cameras and larger battery for a lighter design and wider inner display.

Samsung has just taken the wraps off the Galaxy Z Fold 8 at its Unpacked event in London, and if you've been following the leaks, you already know the twist: this isn't the direct successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

That phone is now called the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Instead, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 name has been given to something entirely new: a wider, squatter foldable that Samsung has built to go head-to-head with Apple's rumored iPhone Ultra foldable phone.

The wide Galaxy Z Fold 8 ditches the tall, narrow proportions that have defined every Z Fold since 2019. Instead, it unfolds into a 7.6-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, making it feel much closer to a compact tablet than a stretched-out phone.

Samsung is positioning this new form factor as the key differentiator. While the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra sticks with the familiar tall cover display and book-style design, the wide Galaxy Z Fold 8 is aimed at people who want a wider, more usable screen for multitasking, split-screen apps, and reading.

It also means you'll see smaller black bars when watching videos with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 unfolded.

Both Fold models are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, so you're not giving up any performance by choosing the wide model over the Ultra. The biggest hardware difference comes down to the battery.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 packs a 4,800mAh battery with 45W wired and 25W wireless charging, while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra steps up to a 5,000mAh cell.

The cameras are another key difference. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a dual-camera setup consisting of a 50MP primary sensor and a 50MP ultrawide camera, while the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra gets a more capable triple-camera system. Both the cover and inner selfie cameras on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 are 10MP.

As for pricing, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 sits just below the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, starting at $1,900 in the U.S. for the base model with 256GB of storage. Samsung is also offering 512GB and 1TB storage options.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is available for pre-order now, with general availability beginning on August 7, 2026.

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy Z8 series is the company's first lineup to adopt silicon-carbon battery technology.
• Silicon-carbon batteries pack more capacity into the same space, enabling bigger batteries without thicker phones.
• The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra grows from a 4,400mAh to a 5,000mAh battery while keeping a similar footprint.

Samsung has just introduced the new Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8. While most of the attention is on the new foldable form factors, there's another major upgrade hiding underneath: silicon-carbon battery technology.

For years, Samsung avoided using silicon-carbon batteries in its smartphones, but the Galaxy Z8 series marks the company's first phones to finally adopt the technology. We've already seen brands like OnePlus, Oppo, Xiaomi, and Honor embrace silicon-carbon batteries over the past few years, and now Samsung is finally onboard.

For those unfamiliar with it, silicon-carbon battery technology allows manufacturers to fit the same amount, or even more, battery capacity into a physically smaller cell. That means larger batteries without making the phone any thicker.

It's the reason phones like the Oppo Find N6, Honor Magic V6, and even older devices like the OnePlus 13 have managed to offer significantly bigger batteries than comparable phones from Samsung, Apple, and Google.

Samsung has finally made the jump with the Galaxy Z8 series. The company hasn't officially confirmed how much silicon is used in these batteries, but it's clearly enough to make a noticeable difference.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, for example, is physically very similar to its predecessor, yet its battery capacity has increased from 4,400mAh to 5,000mAh.

It's also hard not to view Samsung's cautious rollout through the lens of the Galaxy Note 7. The battery fires in 2016 led to a global recall, cost the company billions of dollars, and damaged Samsung's reputation for years.

It's possible Samsung simply wanted more time to validate the technology before bringing it to its own devices, especially foldables. We'll be putting these new batteries through their paces once we spend more time with the phones, but on paper alone, this is arguably the biggest battery upgrade Samsung has made in years.

Samsung's new Galaxy Z Flip 8 was finally unveiled at Unpacked, and I got to spend some time with the phone ahead of the big reveal. Samsung has been a pioneer of the modern flip phone for years, so it's no surprise that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 both looks and feels spectacular. It also feels like a bit of a course correction for the flip series after the Z Flip 7 fell short on some aspects.

Still, despite this being a refinement of last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7, the Flip 8 feels like a solid piece of hardware and potentially a worthy competitor to the Motorola Razr. But with the higher price, it might be a hard sell for some.

If it ain't broke...

If you've seen the Galaxy Z Flip 7, then you've basically seen the Z Flip 8. The design is pretty much identical, aside from some refinements like a slightly thinner chassis. Samsung was somehow able to achieve this with the same battery capacity, thanks to a new silicon-carbon battery. The result is probably one of the best-looking and most pocketable phones you can buy, even compared to the rather thick Motorola Razr Ultra.

There are also some nice new colors, including a nice pink that I’m rather fond of and a green that’s probably my favorite of the bunch, which is why it’s such a shame it’s a Samsung.com-exclusive color.

Nearly everything else about the phone is the same as its predecessor. It comes in the same storage and RAM configurations, the displays are the same size, and even the cameras are the same. The 50MP camera does get a boost with the ProVisual engine for enhanced selfies, so I’m excited to really test that out.

One downside is that unlike the Fold 8 series, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 doesn’t get the new Titanium Flex display. The crease is still pretty minimal on the Flip, and I doubt it will bother anyone who owns it, but it would be nice to see it get the same treatment as its other foldable siblings.

So what's new?

Fortunately, Samsung made some rather important changes on the inside. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a return to Qualcomm after last year’s model was Exynos-only. I’m curious to see how performance compares to the Razr Ultra 2026, which is powered by last year’s Snapdragon 8 Elite. This also means you get the same Gemini Intelligence features as on the Fold series, such as screen automation

However, one of the most notable changes made was to the cover screen experience. Samsung revamped the cover screen with One UI 9 in a way that feels somehow more intuitive than even Motorola’s excellent cover screen experience.

You have a main home screen that acts like a more useful Now Brief hub for easy access to things that matter to you, offering a truly useful way to use the cover screen. You can even use AI to generate new Now Brief cards for you based on your interests.

Swiping down now reveals a Quick Settings menu and the notifications panel, and swiping up opens your app drawer. Samsung says the cover screen experience was changed to mimic the UI when the phone is open, which should help reduce friction, while still allowing for various panels when swiping left or right.

I kind of love this new cover screen experience and, for once, think Motorola should take note for future updates to its Razr series. That said, it’s not all gravy because the app drawer only officially supports 16 apps. Fortunately, Samsung adds a button in the app drawer that prompts users to install the MultiStar module from Good Lock, which will enable additional app support, but there’s still more friction here than there needs to be.

Samsung also showed off some other tricks, like a new mirror mode, dual recording that you can preview on the cover screen, and even Super Steady with Horizontal Lock so you can capture ultra-smooth high-intensity videos on the go.

Is this really the end?

From my first impression, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 isn’t leaps and bounds better than its predecessor, but it feels like Samsung is still somewhat serious about this category of smartphone. That’s why I’m worried that the rumors might be true and Samsung could end the Flip lineup after this year, which would be a shame.

There are so few flip phones on the market now, with Motorola and Samsung as the only serious players. The ongoing RAM crisis isn’t helping things either, as it’s likely the reason for Samsung increasing the price by $100. Granted, it’s still much cheaper than the Razr Ultra 2026, but Samsung may be pricing the flip phone out of our minds and out of the market.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is here! Managing Editor Derrek Lee is in the U.K. for the event and is reporting on all things foldables, watches, and everything else that launched today.

This marks the first time in 14 years that Samsung is back in the U.K. for a big announcement (the last time was the Galaxy S3!), and Samsung is launching tons of new products, including a new Fold that's ready to take the world by storm. Scroll down to see everything announced today!

When and what time is Samsung Unpacked?

The event is today, July 22nd, and it starts at 9am EST (New York time)...in the U.K. the time will be 2pm BST.

What was announced at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked?

• A duo of new Galaxy Z Fold 8 phones has been announced, including a new shorter, wider model that's expected to be the best-selling Galaxy Z Fold to date. Alongside it, Samsung debuted the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which looks nearly identical to the Z Fold 7, with a taller aspect ratio and three cameras on the back. Likely, this naming change is to line up with Apple's expected iPhone Ultra, the company's first folding phone, which is expected to be announced in September.
• The Galaxy Z Flip 8 brings back Samsung's iconic flip phones, with a slimmer design and upgraded specs.
• Samsung also brought a refresh to its watch line, including the Galaxy Watch 9 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. The Watch 9 looks almost identical to the Ultra 2 from many angles, including a circle-within-a-squircle design and big new features.
• Lastly, Samsung debuted its first smart glasses with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster designs. These are powered by Gemini and include cameras on the front and speakers on each arm.

What's the best way to watch Samsung Galaxy Unpacked?

There are three ways to watch Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event live. You can tune in via Samsung's official websites, including Samsung.com and Samsung Newsroom.

Perhaps the easiest way to watch the event is on YouTube. Head to Samsung's official YouTube channel or watch from the link below.

We’re reaching the final countdown! Samsung’s Unpacked event is just hours away, and I’m currently on the ground in London to experience it all in real-time. Be sure to tune in at 9 a.m.ET to watch the event and keep this tab open for our play-by-play and real-time thoughts on Samsung’s new devices and announcements!

I'll send over more pictures from the event, but for now, here's a shot of the event location from last year!!

What am I most excited to see at Unpacked? I’m really curious about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and its new wide aspect ratio.

I really want to see how apps look on the external display and how it handles multitasking on the internal folding screen, because frankly, I’m not convinced that this is an optimal design for a foldable phone. It feels like Samsung is trying to replicate the Galaxy Z TriFold's internal aspect ratio, but it comes off as an awkward attempt. Idk, I guess we’ll see when it's announced and I get my hands on it.

I'm so excited to be here, and London is looking great! Like I said, we are just a few hours away from the event and there's so much going on. I landed here on Sunday, but we've been in briefings all week.

There are a LOOOOT of exciting things happening and I can't wait to share it all at 9am ET when the event starts!!

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 should take center stage at the event, and it's exciting for a lot of reasons. A shorter and wider foldable makes it easier to consume content, and it looks like Samsung is leaning heavily into this, if leaked marketing is anything to go by. Of course, a smaller foldable is also easier to hold and use, and if you've used a Surface Duo or the Find N2 in the past, you should be excited about the Z Fold 8.

Samsung is seeing increased demand for its foldables, and not just in the U.S. These devices have been around for well over seven years now, and the tech has matured to a point where its mainstream. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 had a lot to do with this, as the thinner and lighter design made it that much more enticing an upgrade if you're using a Galaxy S device.

I love flip phones, so I would’ve loved to see Samsung bring back another better Galaxy Z Flip FE, but it doesn’t look like that’s the case.

To be honest, it makes sense, as book-style foldables have been on the rise and have overtaken flip phones in sales volume. That seems to be why Samsung is set to offer two Fold variants this time around; to hopefully appeal to more people.

Will it work?

One thing Samsung does great is accessories. The company is great at launching a bevy of cases, screen protectors, and bands for its devices, and I expect the same treatment for the foldables and watches. It’s likely there will be a selection of magnetic cases available since we don’t expect any of the devices to feature built-in Qi2 magnets.

We’ll be sure to highlight some of the best ones we find when the devices launch so you can pair your new purchase with some much-needed protection.

I also really hope we get to see more of Samsung’s Android XR glasses. We’ve seen Google's prototypes, and I got to play with Xreal’s display glasses, but I want to get my hands on Samsung’s production glasses. They’re expected to launch this fall, so with any luck, we’ll hear more about them at Unpacked, but they’re probably my most anticipated launch of this year.

And don’t get me wrong, I like Meta’s glasses, but there’s a bit of a disconnect. I also prefer Gemini to Meta AI, so it would be cool to have some stylish glasses that sync with my phone and watch.

And while the Meta glasses have been an amazing addition to my tech bag, and I love the hands-free recording to capture amazing memories while being present with my family and friends...a few jerks have ruined the public image of these glasses for everyone.

So how will Google and Samsung get around the stigma of “pervert glasses” that the AI glasses category now finds itself in? That’s a great question, and Google has only answered part of it so far.

In a recent interview with our sister site Tom’s Guide, Google's XR product management lead, Juston Payne, explained that Google and Samsung are doing everything in their power to create a system of trust around its upcoming AI glasses. That includes LED indicators on the front that illuminate when recording starts, as well as “employing Android permission frameworks to help protect users.”

Meta already employs LED indicators on its AI glasses and recently rolled out a mandatory glasses update that permanently disables the camera if the LED is tampered with. Meta doesn’t have the same level of Android OS-level controls that Google does, though, so we’re thinking the company could allow users to enable automated alerts when a pair of glasses is recording nearby, similar to how Android users can enable warnings when Bluetooth trackers are nearby.

So far, Google and Samsung’s upcoming glasses look to be mostly a carbon copy of what Meta has built over the years, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Like Meta, Google and Samsung are working with fashion brands (Gentle Monster and Warby Parker this time instead of Ray-Ban and Oakley) to make a fashion-forward pair of glasses that also happen to have cool features inside.

And these glasses will be powered by Gemini, not Meta AI, which may make all the difference in the world to a lot of people. Meta AI is used a lot around the world, but lots of people I know prefer Gemini because it integrates so well with Google’s services. I would say that Google is also slightly more trusted than Meta, which is another positive point for what Samsung is expected to show off today.

Whenever a company shows off AI glasses, it always talks about translation features and how great they are. That’s fine and all, but I don’t find myself needing translation features every day, or even every month. In fact, the only time I’ve used the translation features on any glasses I own is when I was reviewing features and seeing how well they work.

But Google’s announced navigation features might be a different story for me entirely! In the Tom’s Guide interview, Google’s XR product management lead, Juston Payne, said, “The audio experience for [navigation] is fantastic,” Payne said. “It uses the camera to localize you, so it knows that you're pointing in the right direction. It can give you contextual navigation to help you get to where you're going without being vague, you know, like ‘turn right there.’”
You can do some of this with Google Maps on your phone, but I don’t care to hold my phone up constantly while walking around. Having this on my glasses would provide yet another hands-free opportunity, letting me get lost in the moment without actually getting lost.

While we expect to see Samsung’s AI glasses, Google seems more comfortable with calling them “intelligent eyewear” rather than “AI glasses.” This is an interesting choice of language because, at least to me, it seems to imply that people are less interested in yet another AI gadget, but are likely still receptive to a cool gadget that looks great in the process.

Whether people will actually use all the nifty Gemini-powered features is another story entirely. I almost never use the AI functions on my Meta or Rokid glasses despite them being a simple voice command away. For the most part, these kinds of glasses are most useful to me as a camera and as a way to get notifications without visual distractions. I’d love to see if Google’s implementation convinces me otherwise.

What about colors for the Galaxy Z Flip 8? Well, rumors claim the flip foldable could debut in Cream, Graphite, Mint, and Pink.

This is an interesting assortment, for sure. If you’re asking me (and, even if you're not, I’m asking me), I really only vibe with Graphite. I can get down with pink, too, if I’m honest. It’s different. It pops.

I’m going to be real: these rumored colors for Samsung’s foldables are passable at best for me. I mean, am I a crazy person if I like vibrant primary colors? Where’s my red Fold 8 or Flip 8? I would absolutely love a red foldable from Samsung. Crimson would be a sick color, too. I’m not saying these colors (if they’re real) are bad. All I’m saying is Samsung could do better (or do different).

There’s a lot that we’re expecting from Samsung’s Unpacked this summer. Personally, I’m most interested in the brand’s smartwatches. The Galaxy Watch 9, seeing how the company is positioning it as an “always-on” device is intriguing. Samsung made efforts to boost its heart health features, then it rolled out for the user’s hearing. Its full presentation will certainly be one that I’ll focus on, for sure.

Going back to the AI glasses...I want to see how well it will play with Samsung’s Galaxy phones should the lenses appear during the keynote. Samsung’s AI has been all over its phones. It wants to be helpful, it wants to help make mundane tasks feel effortless.

So, where do its glasses fit in? How will these glasses do better than the phone when it’s in your pocket? Will it expand what we already have in our hands and put it on our faces?

We are about 15 minutes away from the Big SHOW! What are you most excited about?? Answer the poll above!

And the show is beginning! Samsung is going all-in on this new aspect ratio, with tons of teasers ahead of the start. Get ready!

Samsung is doubling down on what it calls "the importance of AI infrastructure," linking all its products together with Galaxy AI as it says it's bringing the service to 800 million devices by the end of this year. Of course, that begins with new devices like Galaxy Glasses (that's the official name, right?), pictured above.

Time for foldables! Samsung's TM Roh is on stage talking about Samsung's leadership in foldables, saying the company is the global leader in foldables, and this year's new devices will only further that lead.

If you haven't had a chance to read our hands-on with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, go ahead and do that now! Android Central Managing Editor, Derrek Lee, got to check out the new phones ahead of Unpacked and has tons of photos and info for you to check out.

A suave gentleman with a lovely British accent just took the stage to announce the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which he says "represents the very best of Samsung Galaxy."

The Fold 8 Ultra looks pretty darn similar to the Z Fold 7, and Samsung says this year's remains the thinnest Galaxy phone ever despite the visual similarities.

The Z Fold 8 Ultra is made thinner thanks to Flex Titanium, a new screen structure that's thinner and stronger than the previous plastic-based flexible glass structure. Samsung also swapped out the hinge with something thinner, lighter, and even stronger, delivering further improvements alongside the expected evolution of the Z Fold series.

I could have done without the AI-generated hamster brainrot, but Samsung's battery announcement is a BIG one. At 5,000mAh, the Z Fold 8 Ultra packs the highest capacity battery ever in a Z Fold phone, with 5% silicon-carbon content. This enables faster charging, and while neither capacity or charging speed are quite matching the company's biggest competition, we VERY MUCH welcome any improvement in this area on Samsung's foldables.

The Z Fold 8 Ultra's upgraded cameras can record 8k video, take "stunning Nightography shots," and features a substantially upgraded ultrawide sensor at 50MP.

Samsung is talking about improved performance on the Z Fold 8 Ultra, including enhanced Galaxy AI performance and even better gaming performance than in the past. That's not just a normal silicon upgrade with a faster processor, it means Galaxy AI is able to intelligently scale things to keep your phone cool and fast over time.

Now Nudge is coming to the Z Fold series! This means proactive buttons that appear alongside your text and favorite apps, giving you instant ways to add new entries to your calendar and open apps side-by-side with context-sensitive suggestions.

And that's the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra! This one starts at a rather painful $2,099 this year, so you'll definitely want to grab those preorder deals once they're available following the show.

And here's the Z Fold 8! It's a new shorter, wider Galaxy Z Fold, and I couldn't be more excited about this new size!

The new aspect ratio on the outer display still works very well with vertical video (surprisingly) thanks to some small borders on the left and right side.

Unfold the Z Fold 8 and you get a lovely 4:3 aspect ratio, which Samsung says is perfect for watching content and reading the comments at the same time.

Gaming is better thanks to the aspect ratio, which gives you a much more hand-friendly size to game on.

Also, WHEN DID PUBG GET A NARUTO EVENT???

Samsung says the new shape is also perfect for reading, as you just rotate the inner display to get a lovely page-shaped design. I'm not sure I want to be reading anything long-term on Samsung's low-PWM displays, but I certainly welcome the new shape change!

Samsung pits this one as the world's lightest Fold (that's book-style folds, if you're wondering), complete with a 4,800mAh battery and the same Flex Titanium tech as the Z Fold 8 Ultra.

A new camera mode will automatically follow someone and frame them perfectly in a vertical format, so you can do less editing and more posting.

And there's the Z Fold 8, a new shorter, wider Fold that's lighter and easier to use than ever. This one starts at $1,899 and will be available from August 7.

Time for the Galaxy Z Flip 8! This one's lighter and slimmer than ever at just 6.1mm unfolded and around 180g.

The real highlight of the new release is the upgraded Flex Window, which is brought about with One UI 9 (that means older Flips get it too). This includes new gestures, full notifications and quick toggles, and more apps that open properly on the cover screen. Just don't expect something that's quite Motorola level without downloading Multistar, though.

The Z Flip 8 ships with Samsung's awesome Horizon Lock feature, so that camcorder recording is smoother than ever.

And here's all the specs for the Z Flip 8! This one starts at $1,199 and launches alongside the Folds on Aug 7. Preorders start TODAY!

Ned from the latest Spider-Man movies took the stage to show off his latest invention, the Spidey Tracker, running side-by-side with camera footage on a Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

The AI-generated brainrot is back! Ignoring the annoying part, Samsung Care+ is being shown off as a big feature for the new Fold and Flip phones, which will be a big deal if Apple ends up launching a folding phone as we expect them to this year.

Samsung is trying to get you to sign up for its new credit card with discounts on preorders for the new phones. I'll pass, but some people in the audience sounded rather enthused.

Galaxy Watch 9 leans further into the circle-within-a-squircle design and brings about a ton of new "proactive care" features powered by Galaxy AI.

The new proactive features constantly monitor heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen, combining all these things into a new heart health score.

Heart health metrics give you tons of information and, more importantly, ways to help reduce problems when they arise.

Samsung is partnering with iFit to bring custom workouts to your watch, matching these workouts up with its new heart health metrics and existing metrics technologies to give you ways to improve your health at home rather than generic workouts.

Samsung announced that the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Ring will be the first FDA-approved pair to monitor sleep apnea! That's a huge deal and, quite frankly, the first time I've seen a good reason to get a Galaxy Ring.

Time for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2! It might look similar, but it's got a TON of upgrades over the original Watch Ultra, including a new Snapdragon Elite processor with 32% better performance and a 35% larger battery.

The Watch Ultra 2 is the strongest device Samsung has ever made, with IP69K and 10 ATM ratings, as well as a new dive rating.

Samsung is partnering with Mares to deliver exclusive diving computer features the company says will only be avaialble on the Watch Ultra 2. This exclusivity lasts for the next 2 years and makes the Watch Ultra 2 the smartwatch to get for divers.

The Watch Ultra 2 can detect when you're sweating and make intelligent suggestions to drink more water when you're getting dehydrated. The watch uses a bevy of metrics to do this, and should be a huge deal for athletes and runners.

Here are all the specs for the Galaxy Watch 9! This one starts at $379 for the Bluetooth-only versions and will be available on August 7.

Ready for Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 specs? You're in luck, because they're quite impressive, and the watch is heading to store shelves on August 7 from $699.

Rick Osterloh is taking the stage to talk about Gemini Intelligence, including the new next-gen task automation features. We got to check these out in our hands-on with the Z Fold 8 series.

Task Automation is coming to 40 more apps, which means you can ask Gemini to do something for you instead of spending time doing it yourself. Gemini will open the app in the background and get things done, then alert you when it's finished.

Gemini Intelligence is also coming to Samsung and Google's upcoming smart glasses, which the company calls "Intelligent Eyewear."

Qualcomm has taken the stage, talking about the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor inside Samsung's Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra. We've already seen this processor in the S26 series, and now it's headed to Samsung's foldables for the first time.

The Snapdragon Wear Elite in the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 isn't just faster, it also helps the watch deliver more advanced health metrics thanks to faster, better sensors and better Bluetooth connectivity and interoperability.

If you haven't taken a look at our Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 hands-on yet, now is a great time to do that!

Samsung's Intelligent Eyewear has taken the stage!

We've already known about the Warby Parker and Gentle Monster partnership for about a year now, but it's becoming real now that the glasses are about to launch.

Samsung talked a lot about how these glasses were engineered to be light and comfortable, including flex hinges and light, stylish frames. Things like the power slider also look a lot like Meta's glasses, which is a great thing if you want the features but want to avoid Meta.

Samsung Intelligent Eyewear launches this fall and includes 9 hours of battery life on a single charge, a charging case that'll fully recharge the glasses 7 times, a Snapdragon AR1 chipset inside and, of course, deep connectivity with the Galaxy ecosystem.

We've got a full hands-on with Samsung's Intelligent Eyewear for you to check out, including the charging case, several styles, and all the great features you can expect when they launch this fall.

And while it's probably the least exciting launch of the show, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is still plenty cool, especially with that new Horizon Lock camcorder upgrade. Check out our full Galaxy Z Flip 8 hands-on here!

And that wraps it up for Samsung's July 2026 Galaxy Unpacked show! What did you think? Were any of the new devices particularly exciting? I'm personally most excited about the Fold 8, as I was a huge fan of the original Pixel Fold's shorter, wider design and got quite annoyed when the company switched to the narrower, taller design a year later. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a bunch of new shorter, wider folds!

Looking to preorder any of the new Folds or Flips? We've got the deals you're looking for! Head to our Galaxy Z Fold 8 deals hub to get all the best preorder deals you'll find on the web, or check out the Galaxy Z Flip 8 deals hub if flip-style phones are more your thing.

One of the most surprising things announced today is the inclusion of silicon-carbon material inside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra's batteries. Samsung has been notoriously conservative with battery upgrades ever since the Galaxy Note 7, and it was anyone's best guess as to when Samsung would finally include silicon-carbon in its phones.

Now, the Z Fold 8 series only has 5% silicon-carbon content, which sounds like a very small amount, but that turns into a big result when you compare the numbers. The Z Fold 7 has a paltry 4,400mAh battery, which was one of the biggest complaints about the phone, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra ramps this up to 5,000mAh without increasing the size or weight of the device. That's all thanks to silicon-carbon, and it's wonderful to see Samsung finally start including it!

While there's a definite gulf in the specs between Samsung's latest watches, both of them look surprisingly similar. This shouldn't come as too much of a surprise, considering this was the case with the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra, but I still thought it was a little odd that Samsung didn't offer for at least one different option.

In the past, some companies have offered different styles of watches to help people choose one that better fits their style. With these recent releases, Samsung seems to be leaning more into a rugged style, ignoring customers who might be looking for something a little gentler looking. Oh well, I guess that's what the Pixel Watch is for.

Samsung's upcoming smart glasses seem to be completely avoiding a "proper" product name, and it's driving us a little crazy. Are these Samsung Glasses? Galaxy Glasses? Samsung Google Intelligent Eyewear? Warby Parker and/or Gentle Monster AI Glasses? Intelligent Eyewear seems to be the term Google and Samsung use most often, so that's likely what we're going to see at retail.

Regardless of what they're called, I'm elated with the idea of having Gemini built into a pair of AI glasses. I use my Meta-branded smart glasses all the time as a hands-free camera to capture family memories, as it's just so much better than holding onto a phone and my kids seeing me stare at yet another screen.

They're also great for calls and audio, and given Gemini's deep ties into all the Google services I use daily, I might actually start using the AI-based features more than I do on Meta glasses, which often are still fairly limited because Meta doesn't have the same level of access that Google does.

Rumor has it that this year is the last year Samsung will make a new Z Flip phone. I'm not sure I believe that just yet, but given the weirdness in the tech industry right now (with supplies and prices), I suppose anything is possible. After all, Samsung held just 15% of the global foldable market share in Q2 2026, beating Motorola by just 2%.

Considering Motorola only made flip-style phones until the excellent Razr Fold showed up in May this year, it's clear that Samsung isn't selling as many Flips as it should be. With the new wide Fold reportedly taking over the bulk of the sales and waning interest in Samsung's Flip-style phones, I'll be curious to see if this one turns out to be true.

Either way, we've got some great new cover screen features on this year's Z Flip 8, and the excellent Horizon Lock feature is going to make camcorder mode even more fun than it was before.

• Get a FREE Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 with new line, trade-in at T-Mobile

We’ve seen a lot of Galaxy Z Fold 8 preorder deals come down the pipeline since the phones were unveiled this morning, but few offers will actually get you the premium foldable for free. That said, if you’re a T-Mobile customer (or willing to switch), you can get a free Galaxy Z Fold 8 by trading in an old or broken phone and adding a line with the Experience Beyond or Experience More plan.

Sure, it’s a lot of fine print (and the qualified unlimited plans aren't exactly budget-friendly), but if you need a new wireless plan and you agree to these terms, you’re looking at $1,900 of potential savings. That’s nothing to scoff at!

Of course, T-Mobile isn’t the only company offering preorder deals for the new Galaxy phones. If you don’t want to deal with all of the confusing contracts and eligibility requirements, you can also buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Z Fold Ultra unlocked from Amazon and get a free gift card with a balance of up to $350. With phones this expensive, every penny counts!

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is clearly an eye-catching device, and strange naming decisions aside, it's refreshing that Samsung decided to do something new with this generation rather than churn out nearly-identical devices year after year.

Of course, good-looking devices deserve good-looking protection, so it's worth checking out our guide to the best Galaxy Z Fold 8 cases. The phone's wide design gives you more surface area to work with, after all, so consider it an opportunity to express yourself.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 40mm (BT): $379.99, plus free $50 gift card at Amazon

The foldable phones may be getting all of the attention, but they're far from the only devices that were announced this morning. The Galaxy Watch 9 is likely to rank among the best Android smartwatches released this year, and Amazon will already give you a free $50 gift card when you preorder one of these wearables from its website.

Just like the other devices that Samsung announced today, the Galaxy Watch 9 will officially hit store shelves on August 7th.

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 256GB: $1,900 FREE with eligible trade-in, qualified line at AT&T

Not one to be outdone by the competition, AT&T has also just launched a deal that could get you a free Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 when you add a line with an eligible unlimited plan and trade in an old or broken phone. That's $1,900 of potential savings!

To be honest, I wish all of these preorder deals didn't involve so much fine print, but with prices on tech going up all across the board, I'll take just about any offer I can get.

If you're sick of all the trade-in opportunities and free gift card deals, you might be wondering when the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series (and everything else announced today) will finally get a good old-fashioned discount.

Well, it might be a while. As the eCommerce Editor of Android Central, I've covered a lot of device launches over the years, and it usually takes a few months before a new Samsung phone gets any real price drop. There's a chance that we'll see some decent discounts when the fall sales arrive in September/October; otherwise, we'll have to wait for Black Friday.

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled: it's possible that we'll see some good deals on lingering Galaxy Z Fold 7 / Z Flip 7 stock in the coming days.

If anything, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 may be a better choice if it gets a decent discount. Prices of all tech products have increased substantially in recent months, and with the Z Fold 8 Ultra starting at $2,099, it's worth taking a look at last year's devices. Same goes for the Z Flip 7 as well.

As a reminder, the new foldables and smartwatches are going on sale starting August 7. Samsung has unmatched global presence, and the new products are available in every major country. That said, you don't get trade-in deals that are quite as generous as the U.S. in most regions.

Out of all the devices that Samsung unveiled yesterday, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the one I want to use the most. The wider profile looks interesting, and the fact that it's designed to consume media and read books makes it a great choice for my own use case. At this point, there's no telling if the foldable will gain anywhere close to the same level of mainstream attention as the book-style devices Samsung has been selling, but I want it to do well.

We haven't talked about the software much; all the foldables run One UI 9 based on Android 17 out of the box. Like their predecessors, they will get seven Android OS updates. Samsung isn't changing its interface or adding much in the way of features with One UI 9, but there is a generous smattering of Galaxy AI everywhere. It's clear that Samsung is positioning AI as a key point of differentiation on its devices, and to its credit, it has a strong suite of utilities.

As is the case with the last few iterations of Android, Samsung's One UI 9 looks quite different to Android 17 on a Pixel. This is by design; Samsung has always maintained its own visual identity, and One UI 9 continues that trend. That said, you get most of the latest features Google introduced in Android 17 — other than the Bubbles floating windows mode. That's limited to the Pixel Launcher, but other than the multitasking feature, all the security and privacy features along with all the new changes in Android 17 are also available in One UI 9.

Samsung delivered a strong set of upgrades this year, and it had to do so. With Motorola launching the Razr Fold and Google set to introduce its 2026 foldable next month, Samsung needed to maintain the momentum in this category, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra are the right products to do so.

It's exciting that Samsung finally used silicon battery tech in its latest foldables. Outside of the Razr Fold, there isn't another foldable in the U.S. that leverages this tech, and it's great to see Samsung making the switch. Of course, the brand didn't put an oversized battery — unlike most Chinese brands — but it still means we get bigger batteries than last year in thinner designs, and that's an overall positive.

What you need to know

• Garmin announced the CIRQA, its take on the screenless fitness band, which delivers a wealth of health and fitness insights without a subscription.
• The CIRQA can track more than 80 activities, while also focusing on women's health, sleep score, HRV, skin temperature, and much more.
• Garmin's store listing says the CIRQA is available for $199; however, consumers can purchase it from its storefront on July 24.

Garmin is getting in on the screenless fitness band trend this week. The company highlights its strong wellness capabilities, and they're all possible without a subscription.

Early this morning (July 21), Garmin announced in a press release that its first screenless fitness band, the CIRQA, is available now for $199. As we've already said, the CIRQA is screenless, and Garmin says it's the device's "inconspicuous design" that helps "minimize distractions while tracking important health and performance metrics." The band will automatically detect and record a multitude of activities.

While the expected metrics will be recorded (steps, calories burned, etc.), Garmin says the CIRQA can track more than 80 activities, such as running, walking, and yoga. What's more, users can "select a favorite activity to track by simply tapping the single side button." Garmin is giving the CIRQA band additional strength to handle "advanced training." The band will help inform users if they should push themselves or take a rest day.

It will provide HRV status, VO2 Max, and more for insights about your training effectiveness. Understanding your recovery time is another aspect of the band's fitness assistance. For users going on runs or long walks, the CIRQA supports GPS when connected to a compatible Android or iPhone.

All about your health

Health monitoring—all-day, especially—is where Garmin takes us next. Important metrics, such as "wrist-based heart rate, Body Battery energy monitoring, Pulse Ox², stress, and skin temperature," are available with the CIRQA. For women's health, Garmin says users will find menstrual cycle and pregnancy tracking. Each provides enhanced insight into period predictions and past ovulation estimates by using skin temperature readings while sleeping.

For all users, sleep data the fitness band has captured provides a detailed look into their sleep stages, sleep score, heart rate variability, respiration, and nap detection. Every captured statistic is available to users to view in the Garmin Connect app.

We mentioned this before, but the health and fitness features the CIRQA can provide are available to consumers without a subscription. Garmin's vice president of consumer sales and marketing, Susan Lyman, said, "Plus, with no subscription required, CIRQA Smart Band helps you stay on top of your health and fitness goals—and makes a thoughtful gift for others who want to do the same."

The CIRQA fitness band has been designed with all-day comfort in mind. Garmin highlights its fabric material and "fun, neutral colors." The band is available in Citron Gray, Mauve, French Gray, Dark Olive, Captain Blue, French Blue, and black. Consumers can wear the CIRQA on their wrist or as an armband.

Once again, Garmin states the CIRQA fitness band is available for $199. Its store listing says consumers can begin purchasing it on July 24.

What you need to know

• Meta has collaborated with Xbox once again, stating it's bringing the "starter edition" Xbox Game Pass into its Horizon Plus subscription for VR gaming.
• The Xbox Game Pass opens up an additional 50 plus library of games, ranging from AAA to indie titles on its Quest headsets.
• The starter edition Xbox Game Pass for Meta Horizon Plus is rolling out today (July 21).

Meta Horizon Plus is a gateway into VR games on the company's Quest headsets. We're always looking to expand our libraries, and Meta's teaming up with Xbox to do so.

This morning (July 21), it was announced that Meta Horizon Plus and Xbox Game Pass are teaming up. Specifically, Meta says the "starter edition" of the Xbox Game Pass will award VR users with "a library of 50+ games." The two companies have included a mix of titles, ranging from popular AAA games to indie titles. The press release says users will find Fallout 4 and Fallout 76 from Bethesda Softworks, Overcooked 2 (chaotic, co-op cooking game) from Ghost Town Games, Deep Rock Galactic, and more.

What's more, Meta says the starter edition of the Xbox Game Pass will deliver 10 hours of cloud gaming "each month." This lets users stream their games, not download. Users can play with others using cloud and PC multiplayer. Don't worry; Meta says there will be an option to "download titles from the library for unlimited play."

Synced progression is another major aspect.

If you've been gaming on your Meta VR headset and have swapped to your Xbox, your game progress (saved data) will remain. This will remain constant if you're gaming on an Xbox, PC, Meta Quest headset, or another supported device. Users have chances to earn additional rewards by playing, too. Xbox Game Pass for the Meta Horizon Plus subscription is rolling out today (July 21).

Meta adds, "Your Meta Horizon+ subscription also comes with exclusive deals to help you fill out your Meta Quest library. It’s all yours for just $59.99 USD per year, or $7.99 USD per month. You can even try Meta Horizon+ for a month on us."

Meta & Xbox: once again

There's more to experience soon. Meta says it's working on a way to let users emulate an Xbox gamepad with its Quest Touch controllers. Users can expect this support to roll out over the next few weeks. However, for the time being, users can play their Xbox games on their Quest headset without a controller, or users can pair their controller with their headset for a "traditional experience."

Meta and Xbox together for the sake of games isn't anything new. If you happened to miss it, the two companies collaborated on a Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition in June 2025. This headset was truly a limited edition device. Meta's storefront sold out of them quickly, and many consumers were faced with Best Buy or scalpers (yikes). The Xbox Edition Quest 3S wasn't much different from the standard model. The packaging is where they're different.

There's the classic green and black color scheme from Xbox, as well as a "special edition preinstalled Elite Strap." Consumers received an Xbox controller included with the purchase, which was already paired with the system. Turning it on and playing is always the way to go, and that's what this offered.

Android Central's Take

The emulation for the Meta Touch controllers is pretty cool. Although, I do enjoy classic controller-style gameplay. I typically play on a PC nowadays, but I've been playing on my console more, too. Playing with a controller, lounging. There's nothing better. Meta bringing the Xbox Game Pass into their Horizon Plus subscription service is also a major win for people who love VR and gaming on a VR device. Xbox Game Pass has a pretty good selection of games. If I had one, I'd definitely do it.

Back to school season is upon us, and if you're in the market for a new laptop, you'll be pleased to learn that Best Buy is currently launching some of the year's best Chromebook deals as part of its Black Friday in July sale. This sitewide sale event kicked off on July 20th and is set to run through Sunday, July 26th, which means you have less than a week to explore some of the season's best tech discounts before they disappear.

Never owned a Chromebook before? These simple laptops are ideal for students because they're affordable, sturdy, and packed with decent enough specs that they can handle the majority of basic tasks with ease. They're not all built equally, however. Some Chromebooks may be designed for durability so you can easily throw them into a backpack and carry them with you wherever you go, while others are constructed more like tablets, with convertible designs, touchscreen displays, and included styli.

Needless to say, we've tested dozens of Chromebooks over the years, so I can verify that all of the discounted laptops listed below are worthy of your wallet. Whether you want a device for studying, streaming, or simply surfing the web, keep reading for all of my favorite Chromebook deals from Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale.

• See the full list of deals at Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale

Simplify your Back-to-School shopping with these Chromebook deals

Sometimes the best way to swing a tablet deal is to go with a last-gen option, especially if you're looking at devices in the premium price range. As one example, Best Buy has knocked $350 off the price of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, bringing it down to just $850.

While the newer Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is the best premium Android tablet there is today, the S10 Ultra sports relatively similar specs, with a large, good-looking OLED display and a huge battery. It's not exactly the sleekest device, weighing in at 692 pounds, but it's super powerful, it includes the first-party Samsung S Pen, and a microSD card slot for added storage.

This deal is available for the base-level, 256GB configuration of the S10 Ultra, though you can also forego the deal and upgrade to either 512GB or 1TB. Additionally, the deal is available for the S10 Ultra's Moonstone Gray option, although the Platinum Silver version is currently sold out.

• See the full list of deals at Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale

✅Recommended if: you prefer a large tablet with a stylus included for digital drawing, note-taking, and more; you have a budget of around $850 for a premium-level tablet; you want a tablet with a lot of processing power and a large, good-looking display.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather upgrade to the S11 Ultra and you have the budget to do so; you like having a small tablet that's easy to hold and use while couch surfing; you'd prefer to go even cheaper than $850 and you don't need all the bells and whistles of a premium device.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra has a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus processor, 12GB of RAM, and a beautiful, 14.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It's definitely a hefty device, but most don't seem to mind the weight of the massive 11,200mAh battery, especially when considering the benefits it offers to battery life and 45W fast-charging.

As for cameras, the device includes 12MP wide and ultrawide front lenses, and 13MP wide and 8MP ultrawide rear-facing lenses. The first-party Samsung S Pen is also well-liked by users, making note-taking and digital drawing easy.

What you need to know

• Halliday G2 uses the company's new Meeting Flow feature to provide real-time prompts and context as conversations happen.
• Meeting Flow helps you stay engaged without reaching for your phone, offering live captions, translations, instant recaps, contextual research, and confidence-rated answers through the glasses.
• The AI spots topic drift, flags unclear decisions, identifies incomplete action items, and generates structured summaries with transcripts after meetings.

Most AI meeting assistants have become pretty good at telling you what already happened. Halliday thinks that is solving the wrong problem and has unveiled the Halliday G2, a new breed of AI smart glasses based on a feature called Meeting Flow, which gives you live prompts and contextual information during a conversation rather than producing notes after everyone’s left the room.

The new glasses are available for pre-order starting today with a $10 deposit, shaving $100 off the expected retail price of $599 before shipments are scheduled for September 2026.

Halliday’s pitch is that the glasses’ Meeting Flow listens to the conversation in real time and presents bite-sized insights directly through the glasses’ waveguide display rather than having users type prompts into an AI chatbot. That includes live captions and translation, instant recaps if you lose track of the discussion, and contextual research that can answer questions without having to explain the whole situation to an AI first. The answers also include confidence ratings, and the full source material is still available in the companion app.

Meeting Flow can spot off-topic conversations, alert you to ambiguous decisions before they become the default, identify commitments missing an owner or due date, and maintain a running checklist of open items so they don’t disappear once everyone says goodbye. When the meeting is over, the companion app will generate a structured summary of the meeting, including confirmed decisions, assigned tasks, open items, and transcripts.

The hardware is just as workplace-oriented. The previous generation’s display has been replaced by binocular waveguide optics powered by dual micro-LED projectors capable of up to 1,600 nits of brightness and 600 x 300 resolution per eye in the Halliday G2. The four-microphone array can pick up voice from a distance of up to two meters, while Halliday is aiming for more than 12 hours of typical battery life and a weight of less than 50 grams.

Importantly, there is no camera, which could make the glasses more acceptable in meetings, secure workplaces, and other privacy-sensitive environments, while also helping reduce weight and extend battery life.

Outside the office, the glasses also let you get notifications, take phone calls, control music, see dashboard cards, translate in real time in over 45 languages, deploy a built-in AI assistant, and access a teleprompter-style Cheatsheet mode for notes and reminders.

Halliday says future updates to Meeting Flow through 2026 will add deeper contextual awareness, enabling AI to better understand ongoing projects, people, and previous conversations.

What you need to know

• A tipster reportedly discovered a new accessibility feature that Google is working on for Gboard called "Sign-to-text."
• This feature would leverage the user's camera and Google's AI to "translate" sign language into written text for messages or online searches and more.
• Android has several common accessibility features, and Android 16 helped to refine the hearing aid experience for Bluetooth LE-based models and more.

There are a few important accessibility features present on Android that help make devices useful. However, a recent rumor claims that Google is working on another, and it could be its most significant.

"Sign-to-text" is a feature that Android Authority claims Google is working on for its keyboard app, Gboard. Within the code of a recent Gboard app version, the publication claims it found a welcome pop-up for "Sign-to-text," an accessibility feature for users who communicate via sign language. The early description says it will "translate your signing into text messages, web searches, emails, and more."

As one might imagine, this Gboard feature would leverage your phone's camera to capture you signing. If you also expect this feature to rely on Google's AI, you'd be right. Together with tipster AssembleDebug, the publication found that Sign-to-text will "translate" sign language into written text. While the video is said to "never leave your device," Sign-to-text will send "points representing the movement of your body" to Google for translation before deletion.

There's still quite a bit unknown about this. The tipster couldn't find much else aside from the splash screen and brief description. There's also speculation about how good Google's support for sign language will be. Android Authority highlights that there are other sign languages out there aside from American Sign Language.

Accessible for all

As we mentioned before, Android has its fair share of accessibility options for users. Android 16 made two important changes for users who rely on hearing aids. If a user has a pair of Bluetooth LE earbuds, they can switch to their phone's mic to hear a call better. Additionally, users can adjust the volume of their hearing aids from their phone. Work to improve the hearing aid experience continued for Android 16 in December 2025.

In Google's year-end update, hearing aids were given Fast Pair support. The single-tap experience for pairing these devices to a compatible Android device was undoubtedly a major win. Google rolled this out for Demant hearing aids first, but planned to expand its support to Starkey devices earlier this year. Other than hearing aids, Android has accessibility options for colors and text size, but sign language is something fresh for its available selection.

Android Central's Take

I like that this has been discovered. It's in Google's code, yeah, but hopefully that means something. I've seen things like this disappear, as it's probably something Google is trying to see if it can do. I truly hope this is one that makes it because it would be huge for people who sign.

Smartphones have become the place where people manage their money, store their memories, organise their travel plans, access work accounts and stay connected with friends and family.

With so much personal information concentrated in one place, Android security has naturally become more important than ever, but luckily, strengthening protection doesn't have to involve dramatic lifestyle changes, technical expertise, or constantly worrying about the latest online threat.

In fact, some of the most effective ways to improve security occur in the background, helping users stay protected while they continue to browse, message, shop, and work exactly as they always have.

TL;DR: Android security is most effective when it works without disrupting everyday usage. Features such as web protection across apps, scam filtering, secure browsing on public Wi-Fi and background threat monitoring help reduce risk while requiring minimal user intervention. Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android focuses on protecting Android devices from modern threats, while Bitdefender Total Security extends protection across multiple devices and platforms.

Keep Android software up to date

Keeping Android and installed apps updated remains one of the easiest ways to improve security.

Software updates often include fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities, performance improvements, and security enhancements, which means delaying updates can leave devices exposed to risks already addressed by developers. Most Android devices can install updates automatically, making this a simple set-and-forget step that requires very little effort on your part.

Updates help close security gaps before they can be exploited and ensure compatibility with the latest security protections built into Android itself. For users who rely on their phones for work, banking or online shopping, staying current with updates is one of the simplest security habits available.

Scam links increasingly appear inside everyday apps

Many people still associate online threats with suspicious emails, but modern scams often arrive through messaging platforms and social apps.

A fake parcel delivery notification, a fraudulent account warning, or a convincing promotional offer can appear in a text message, WhatsApp chat, or a social media direct message. These scams are often designed to create a sense of urgency, encouraging you to act before you have time to think.

Treat unexpected links with caution, even when they appear to come from familiar companies. Protection tools that scan links across apps can add an extra layer of security, which is particularly useful because many people now spend more time in messaging and social apps than in traditional web browsers.

Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android includes web protection that works across apps, helping identify potentially harmful links wherever they appear, making it especially useful for people who regularly communicate through messaging platforms throughout the day.

Public Wi-Fi still deserves caution

Free Wi-Fi is convenient, especially while travelling or working remotely, where airports, hotels, cafés and train stations all offer quick internet access when mobile data isn't available.

However, public networks can present some of the gravest privacy and security concerns these days. You rarely know who manages a network, how it’s configured or who else may be connected to it, an uncertainty that creates opportunities for cybercriminals to intercept data or create fake networks designed to capture personal information.

Public Wi-Fi can be used safely, but additional protection is recommended when accessing sensitive information.

Secure browsing tools can help protect personal data when using unfamiliar networks, which is particularly valuable for frequent travellers, remote workers and anyone who regularly connects to Wi-Fi outside the home.

The reality is that most people will continue to use public Wi-Fi, but you can reduce your exposure while maintaining convenience by being mindful of your security options.

Review app permissions regularly

Many Android apps request access to location data, photos, contacts, microphones or camera, and while some requests are entirely legitimate, others might be questionable.

A navigation app needing location access to function correctly is an understandable request. However, a simple utility app requesting broad access to personal information may warrant further investigation.

Location, microphone, camera, and contact permissions typically require close attention because they involve highly personal information.

Android provides increasingly detailed permission controls, allowing you to decide what apps can access and when. A quick review of app permissions every few months can help identify software that may have accumulated access it no longer needs.

Security works best when it stays in the background

One reason people ignore security recommendations is that they assume protection requires constant management, whereas in reality, modern mobile security solutions are designed to work quietly behind the scenes.

Threat monitoring, malicious app detection and scam filtering can all operate in the background while you focus on your daily activities, whether it’s answering messages while commuting, checking emails between meetings or browsing online while watching television.

Security tools that demand constant attention often become frustrating – protection that works automatically is far more likely to remain active over the long term.

Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android is designed around this principle, helping protect devices while requiring minimal day-to-day management, making it particularly useful for people who want stronger security without added complexity.

Consider protection beyond your phone

For many households, smartphones are only one part of a much larger digital ecosystem that includes laptops, desktop PCs, and tablets, often containing the same accounts, files and personal information found on mobile devices.

A security strategy that focuses exclusively on a single device can leave other parts of the household exposed, which is why multi-device protection is particularly useful for families, remote workers, and people who regularly switch between devices throughout the day.

You might start the morning by checking emails on a laptop, browsing social media on a phone during lunch and streaming content from a tablet in the evening. Each of your devices represents a potential entry point for security threats.

This is where the Bitdefender Total Security comes into play. It’s designed to provide broader protection across multiple devices, helping you manage security more consistently across all your hardware without adding complexity.

Small security improvements add up

Making an Android device safer requires no dramatic changes and doesn’t mean you have to stop using public Wi-Fi, avoid messaging apps, or become a cybersecurity specialist.

Simple habits such as keeping software updated, reviewing app permissions, staying cautious around unexpected links and using security tools that operate quietly in the background can significantly reduce risk over time.

Modern Android security is increasingly about supporting everyday behaviour, and the best protection often works silently, helping you navigate daily digital life with greater confidence and fewer interruptions.

• Explore how Bitdefender security solutions can help protect your devices, identity and privacy — all in one place.

What you need to know

• Android 17 QPR2 Beta 1 is officially here, kicking off testing for Google's next Pixel Feature Drop arriving in December 2026.
• This beta includes fixes for Bluetooth reconnection failures, lock screen media glitches, Gemini-related reboot crashes, and touch input bugs.
• The update supports Pixel 6a through the Pixel 10 lineup, plus the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, and is available via the Android Beta Program and Android Emulator.

Google’s not wasting any time after wrapping up Android 17 QPR1. The company has officially kicked off testing of Android 17 QPR2 Beta 1, offering Pixel users and developers a first look at the next quarterly update expected to arrive as the December 2026 Feature Drop.

This release doesn’t come with any new user-facing features, but it does fix some annoying bugs that have plagued Pixel owners. In its official release notes, Google says it has fixed an issue where Bluetooth devices could fail to reconnect after losing pairing, with no indication there was a problem. There’s also a fix that stops media controls from flashing briefly on the lock screen when waking a phone, even if notifications for that app had been turned off.

The most important fix is maybe for Gemini. Pixel devices may suddenly reboot when launching Google’s AI assistant due to a system crash. Google also addressed an issue with touch input where apps would stop receiving touch events after users performed a drag-and-drop gesture with multiple fingers.

The Android 17 QPR2 Beta 1 is now available with build number CP41.260701.005 and supports most of the supported Pixels, including the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 family, and the latest Pixel 10 devices. It’s also available through the Android Emulator, and users enrolled in the program can install it over the air via the Android Beta Program.

But the rollout brings a major change, too. If you still have a Pixel 6 or 6 Pro, your beta journey ends right here. These devices have reached their guaranteed update limits, so the previous QPR1 branch is their final beta track.

Android Central's Take

I don’t mind if Google takes a break from dumping flashy new features on us if it means they’ll actually iron out the bugs that get in the way of using my phone. Not getting access to yet another AI gimmick is 100x more annoying than Gemini demanding a reboot or Bluetooth suddenly refusing to reconnect. That said, I’d still like to see Google spend less time playing catch-up with stability issues in the first place. Pixel owners signed up for a premium Android experience, not a free QA gig. If QPR2 delivers a smoother, more reliable phone by December, that’s a win. But it would be even better if these fixes didn’t have to wait for a quarterly update.

What you need to know

• Rumors about Qualcomm's next budget chip, the Snapdragon 4 gen 6, claim another graphical upgrade is in the works.
• A report claims the chip could feature an Adreno 6-series GPU, as well as Bluetooth 6.0 and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.
• The Snapdragon 4 Gen 5, which launched in May, was the first 4-series chip that could muster 90fps in games with an Adreno 4-series GPU.

Qualcomm is supposedly working on another generation of chips for budget phones, and its specs might've appeared online.

Budget phones are typically dropped down a notch when it comes to overall performance. However, alleged details about Qualcomm's next Snapdragon 4 Gen 6 from NotebookCheck suggest the company is trying to close the gap. The post claims the SD 4 Gen 6 could include a much-needed Adreno GPU upgrade. The chip might jump to the Adreno 6 series.

It's suspected that this would deliver yet another significant increase in graphical output for budget phones. As it stands, the publication didn't have concrete numbers. Other supposed upgrades involve its security, which is "getting a refresh." As far as connectivity is concerned, rumors state the SD 4 Gen 6 could feature Bluetooth 6.0 and an upgraded Wi-Fi 6 over Wi-Fi 5 in the Gen 5 SoC.

For what might remain the same, the publication adds that the Snapdragon 4 Gen 6 might keep the same CPU architecture as its predecessor. If that's the case, then we might be in for another 2+6 Kyro core arrangement (Kryo Gold, Kryo Silver). Another similarity could be its process, which NotebookCheck says might remain at 4nm.

Qualcomm released a pair of chips in May, both of which focused on the affordable phone market. Graphics were a focus for Qualcomm with the SD 4 Gen 5. The company states this chip features a "77% increase in Adreno GPU performance for 90fps in games." This was a big moment for Qualcomm. Previously, no 4-series chip achieved such a high FPS (frames per second). Mind you, this is with the Adreno 4-series GPU. With rumors suggesting an upgrade in this department, hopefully Qualcomm can push its graphics even more.

Budget phones often struggle with mobile games with more intense graphics, but knocking them down to medium or low can help. However, if Qualcomm is truly looking to boost its GPU again, maybe users can feel more comfortable with medium graphics across the board without noticeable FPS drops.

The rumors about the Snapdragon 4 Gen 6 didn't have a release date in mind. Considering we got Qualcomm's last wave in May, there's a chance the company could stick to that next year.

What you need to know

• AT&T is reportedly raising home internet prices again, with legacy Fiber and Internet Air customers facing a $5 monthly increase starting August 16.
• Promotional discounts will stay, but affected customers will still pay more because the base monthly rate is increasing.
• AT&T says the extra revenue funds network and service improvements, though customers have heard that explanation before.

AT&T just can’t seem to stop raising prices, and now its home internet customers may be next. The carrier already raised prices on a handful of wireless plans earlier this year and is reportedly planning a second monthly price hike for some internet customers beginning August 16.

PhoneArena has learned from internal documents that the bill of customers on legacy AT&T Fiber and Internet Air plans will be increased by $5 per month starting in mid-August.

Notices are expected to be included on future billing statements before the changes are implemented. Existing promotional discounts should remain in place, but the higher base price means many subscribers will still end up paying more overall.

It’s a move that’s becoming more and more familiar for AT&T customers. Over the last few months, the carrier has bumped up prices on several legacy wireless plans, tacked on more to the rates of retired Unlimited Your Way offerings, and even raised its Administrative and Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee by $1 per line.

AT&T’s explanation, too, sounds familiar. Higher prices help support continued investments in the company’s network, service quality, and customer experience, internal documents say. It's the same explanation it's used for past increases in wireless prices. The question is whether customers will see enough added value to warrant another bill increase.

AT&T has been touting newer offerings, such as its customizable Build-A-Plan service that now bundles wireless and home internet under a single subscription. The carrier isn’t forcing a move, but increasing the price of older plans could naturally push some subscribers to look at newer options.

If you have AT&T internet, look for a price notice on your next bill. The hike won’t be equal for everyone, but if you have an older Fiber or Internet Air plan, your monthly bill could soon jump by another $5. At this point, you may want to compare your current plan to newer offerings, or even competing providers, to see if sticking around still makes financial sense.

What you need to know

• A South Korean publication highlights a series of reports from Galaxy S26 Ultra users, who claim a "red screen" or "red stain" has affected their displays.
• The post cites a Samsung official who places the blame on the phone's Privacy Display, stating that a software update is in the works to solve this problem.
• After the S26 Ultra debuted, tests discovered that the phone's display is darker than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the Privacy Display is the cause.

Consumers with a Galaxy S26 Ultra are starting to report a strange display issue with the phone. Samsung supposedly chimed in, and what it said could be a relief to many.

Before the weekend, News1 (Korean) highlighted an issue that Galaxy S26 Ultra users have continued to report (via GSMArena). According to the publication, many consumers have experienced a "red screen" or "red stain" issue with the Ultra's display, leading many to worry. This red screen issue is most noticeable when the phone produces brighter colors, such as white. Many users have experienced a wide area of redness on their display, whether vertically (in a wide strip) or in specific places.

Samsung reportedly investigated these reports and determined that the Galaxy S26 Ultra's "new technology" is the cause. The Korean publication cites a Samsung official who places the blame on how the S26 Ultra's Privacy Display works. The official said that this "red stain" would occur when the phone is "exposed to strong lighting at maximum brightness."

While the problem itself isn't great to have, the fact that Samsung feels the cause is its Privacy Display is. Samsung's Privacy Display is purely software-based. It's for this reason that the post highlights Samsung's message to users, stating a software update is on the way to resolve this problem. The publication mentions that many of these reports were from users who've had their S26 Ultra for "three to four months."

Privacy Display took something, too

If Samsung is pointing fingers at its Privacy Display tech, then we can't help but drum up a known fact: the S26 Ultra's screen has suffered because of it. We're not using this term—"suffered"—in a dramatic way. What we mean is, the S26 Ultra's screen is not as bright as the S25 Ultra's. Our friends at Tom's Guide did a deep dive and found that the newer model's screen is much darker. At wider angles, the S26 Ultra's drop in peak brightness is quite noticeable.

Even Android Central's Nicholas Sutrich discovered the same facts about the S26 Ultra. The phone also offers questionable comfort for people sensitive to PWM dimming. The S26 Ultra still uses a 480Hz rate, while Sutrich says its competitors have moved on to 5,000Hz or higher. Moreover, Samsung hasn't switched to 10-bit displays. The S26 Ultra still clings to 8-bit.

Android Central's Take

The issue the S26 Ultra has is likely more of a concern than people realize. I'm sure some people have taken out their phones to see if their devices are suffering, too. The timeline is just so strange and pinpoint, especially if you got the device right when it launched. My hope is that Samsung's software update not only solves this current issue, but helps ensure it doesn't happen in the future. There's nothing like getting a fix for something, only to have it break again a few months later.