It's only been a couple of months since the Samsung Galaxy S26 series made its way to the market, but it already feels like we're counting down to Samsung's next big unveil. Like every year, Samsung will host a Galaxy Unpacked event in the summer of 2026 to announce its next set of foldable phones.
Samsung is expected to unveil multiple foldables this year, possibly up to three devices, and could even introduce a new form factor for the first time with a wider book-style foldable.
Samsung has already confirmed the date and location for the event, and it's just around the corner. Furthermore, this year's Galaxy Unpacked is shaping up to be a big one, with major changes expected across Samsung's foldable lineup. If you're wondering how to watch the event live and what to expect, here's everything we know so far.
When is Samsung's next Galaxy Unpacked in 2026?
Samsung recently confirmed that its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event will occur on July 22, 2026, at 9 a.m. ET. It's a few weeks later than last year's Galaxy Unpacked event, which took place on July 9.
Unlike previous events, this year's launch will take place in London. However, for those who can't attend in person, Samsung will be streaming the event online for fans to watch as the company unveils its new devices.
How to watch 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 and tap the Notify Me button to be reminded when the event is about to start. Or you can just do it from the video link below.
What to expect from Samsung's next Galaxy Unpacked
Samsung usually launches its new foldable phones in the summer, and that's exactly what we're expecting this year as well. If the rumor cycle and Samsung's own teasers are anything to go by, Samsung could have up to three foldable phones lined up for us.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra
The headline device will likely be the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, the new name reportedly being given to the standard-design foldable. Samsung made some notable design changes with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 last year, making it wider, slimmer, and lighter, and it looks like the company will continue with a similar design this time. That means you can expect a flat-edge, more refined look on the Galaxy Z Fold 8.
While there may not be any major visual redesign, one area where Samsung is expected to improve is the hinge and crease. Oppo already pushed the envelope with a near-crease-free display on the Find N6, and Samsung is set to follow with a much less visible crease when the Fold 8 is unfolded.
On the hardware side, some meaningful upgrades are expected. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 could feature a larger 5,000mAh battery, which would be a big step up compared to previous models, along with support for 45W fast charging. Samsung is also expected to stick with the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset to power the device.
Galaxy Z Flip 8
In addition, you can expect Samsung's usual Galaxy Z Flip 8 to show up at the event. While there aren't expected to be any major design changes, rumors suggest a slightly slimmer unfolded build, along with internal upgrades like the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or the Exynos 2600 chipset, similar to the Galaxy S26.
That said, it seems unlikely that Samsung will launch a Galaxy Z Flip 8 FE, following last year's questionable Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE.
However, the real talking point of the event might not be these usual upgrades, but the new form factor Samsung is reportedly preparing to introduce.
Galaxy Z Fold 8
With Apple expected to enter the foldable smartphone space in 2026, it looks like Samsung has already taken note. In addition to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8, Samsung is expected to introduce a wider base Galaxy Z Fold 8 model to counter Apple's foldable iPhone.
Samsung did something similar last year with the Galaxy S25 Edge ahead of the rumored iPhone Air, and it looks like it's taking a similar approach again.
A key differentiator for Apple's foldable is expected to be a wider form factor, which could unfold to a display closer to that of an iPad mini. Samsung's base Galaxy Z Fold 8 is also rumored to follow a similar idea. It may feature a shorter, wider design with a broader cover display and unfold into a 4:3 aspect ratio, similar to a tablet.
This new foldable is also expected to feature the same improved crease treatment as Samsung's other foldables this year. Reports suggest a 5.4-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch inner display when unfolded. It's also expected to be powered by last year's Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and pack a 4,800mAh battery.
On the camera side, the Wide Fold is expected to feature a dual-camera setup. But the main highlight here will likely be the tablet-like experience when unfolded. That said, it remains to be seen how practical it will be for everyday use, especially with a wider cover display that might be harder to use one-handed when folded.
New Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2
Samsung has also typically used its summer Galaxy Unpacked event to launch new wearables, and it looks like this year could be no different, with the Galaxy Watch 9 expected to debut alongside the new foldables. Samsung has already teased the new watch, suggesting new AI features and internal advancements.
One advancement will likely be the Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, which promises better performance, longer battery life, faster charging, and enhanced on-device AI capabilities. Samsung was among the companies announced to be using the chip.
Additionally, we could finally get a Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, a follow-up to last year's Ultra refresh. This will likely include a huge battery as well as other improvements.
Wearables
Samsung's Galaxy Glasses aren't expected to launch until this fall, but there's a strong likelihood that we'll hear more about them at Galaxy Unpacked. The leaks have been increasing lately, and it seems like the wearables are pretty much ready for the world. Hopefully, we'll get more information at Unpacked.
There have also been leaks of new earbuds, but this time, Samsung could be preparing to launch open-ear earbuds. These are popular with runners and the like, still bringing great audio while allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.
As in previous years, Android Central will likely be on the ground at the Galaxy Unpacked event, bringing you full coverage and live updates from the keynote. We'll also be running a live blog during the event, so you can follow along in real time as Samsung unveils its new phones.
