Samsung debuts new foldable smartphones ahead of expected Apple entry
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The Galaxy Z Fold8. Image: Samsung
Samsung on Wednesday debuted three new foldable smartphones, including a new design that the company says is better optimized for viewing media.
Why it matters: Samsung is looking to solidify its foldable leadership before the expected debut of a foldable iPhone later this year.
Driving the news: Samsung unveiled a trio of devices, along with two new smartwatches.
- The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, is a similar shape to last year's high-end foldable, but adds the Ultra moniker to distinguish itself from a new model, the Galaxy Z Fold8, which features a squatter shape and 4:3 aspect ratio.
- The Ultra, with an 8-inch main display, starts at $2,099.99.
- The Fold8, with a 7.6-inch main screen, starts at $1,899.
Zoom in: There's also the clamshell Galaxy Z Flip8, Samsung's most affordable folding model, which has a 6.9-inch screen when opened and starts at $1,199.
- Samsung also debuted new versions of both its standard Galaxy Watch and its pricier Watch Ultra, with the former starting at $379.00 and the latter priced at $699.99.
The big picture: Samsung pioneered the foldable category but has seen growing competition in recent years.
- Google debuted the Pixel Fold in 2023 and has continued to invest in that category, with last year's model offering both increased durability and wireless charging, but lacking the slim profile of Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7.
- Apple is planning its first foldable iPhone for a launch later this year, as Bloomberg and others have widely reported.
What we're watching: Samsung used its launch event to show off a few new designs of the smart glasses it plans to launch in the fall along with Google and eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster.
- The companies have yet to announce pricing or exact availability for the glasses.
