Samsung prepares to raise prices on galaxy z fold and flip series

Samsung is poised to hit consumers with higher prices when the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 launch in July, according to a new report from WinFuture. The anticipated price hikes represent a significant jump from previous models, signaling a shift in the foldable market.

Foldable futures: expect a premium

Rumored pricing indicates a substantial increase across the board. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 256GB will start at €1,299 – a €100 jump over the current Z Flip 7’s $1,486 USD price tag. The 512GB model climbs to €1,499, adding another €180. The Z Fold 8 itself faces a steeper climb, with the 256GB variant pegged at €1,999 ($2,287 USD), and the 512GB model reaching €2,199 ($2,516 USD). The top-tier 1TB Z Fold 8 will start at a hefty €2,599 ($2,973 USD).

The Z Fold 8 Ultra follows a similar trajectory, with price increases of €100 and €180 for the 256GB and 512GB models, respectively, compared to their predecessors. These bumps translate to prices of €2,199 ($2,516 USD) and €2,399 ($2,799 USD) for the 256GB and 512GB variants.

Watch series gets a boost too

The Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 are also slated for price increases. The 40mm Bluetooth version will cost €409 ($468 USD), a €40 rise from the Galaxy Watch 8. The LTE model is expected to retail for €459 ($525 USD), up €50. The 44mm Bluetooth Watch 9 will sell for €439 ($502 USD), while the LTE version will be available for €489 ($559 USD). Notably, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 LTE is seeing a modest increase, jumping €50 to €749 ($857 USD) from its 2024 launch price.

Samsung is also anticipating a welcome upgrade: a 5,000 mAh battery for the Z Fold 8, a considerable leap from the Z Fold 7’s 4,400 mAh. Additionally, wired charging speeds will be boosted to 45W, up from 25W on the previous generation. The Z Fold 8 Wide model is expected to feature a 4,800 mAh battery. The Z Flip 8 will retain its 4,300 mAh battery, mirroring the Z Flip 7.

Bottom line: a foldable premium

While details remain tentative, the anticipated price hikes underscore Samsung’s commitment to solidifying its position in the rapidly evolving foldable market. Consumers should brace themselves for a steeper investment – but also for a more powerful and refined device.