Samsung Confident in Foldable Technology Ahead of Apple's Release

Samsung Electronics Co-CEO and mobile business head Roh Tae-moon has expressed confidence in the company’s foldable phone technology ahead of rival Apple Inc.’s planned launch of a competing device. “The technological expertise and customer understanding we have built over seven years cannot be caught up with overnight,” Roh stated. Samsung introduced three new Galaxy Z foldable phones powered by Alphabet Inc.’s Gemini AI, marking the first major expansion of the product line since the original model launched in 2019. “Foldable phones have reached maturity, both technologically and in the market,” Roh said. “The entry of more companies into this market signifies that foldable phones have become mainstream products, and the market is likely to continue growing.” When asked about Samsung’s decision to price its latest foldable phones lower in South Korea than in overseas markets despite rising production costs due to memory chip price increases, Roh emphasised the importance of the domestic market. “By thoroughly considering the importance of the Korean market, we set a more affordable price than in any other market in the world,” he said. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is priced at 2.58 million won, an increase of 198,000 won compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is priced at 1.68 million won, also up 198,000 won from the previous model. The new phones will be launched sequentially in South Korea and other markets starting from 7 August. Pre-orders in South Korea will open next Tuesday and run until 3 August.