Samsung Confident in Foldable Technology Ahead of Apple's Release

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Samsung Electronics co-CEO and head of the company’s mobile business, Roh Tae-moon, has expressed confidence in the foldable phone technology developed by the South Korean technology firm ahead of rival Apple Inc.’s planned launch of competing devices.

“The technological expertise and understanding of customers we have built over seven years cannot be matched overnight,” Roh said, as quoted by Yonhap on Thursday (23 July).

Samsung introduced three Galaxy Z foldable phones powered by Alphabet Inc.’s Gemini artificial intelligence (AI), marking the first major expansion of the product line since the launch of the first Galaxy Z model in 2019.

“Foldable screen phones have reached maturity, both technologically and in the market,” Roh said.

“The entry of more companies into this market shows that foldable screen phones have become a mainstream product, and the market will most likely continue to grow,” he added.

When asked about Samsung’s decision to price its newest foldable phones in South Korea lower than in overseas markets, despite production costs rising due to higher memory prices, Roh emphasised the importance of the domestic market.

“After thoroughly considering the importance of the Korean market, we set prices that are more affordable than anywhere else in the world,” he said.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is priced at 2.58 million won, or around Rp30.4 million, up 198,000 won, or about Rp2.3 million, from the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is priced at 1.68 million won, or around Rp19.8 million, also up 198,000 won, or about Rp2.3 million, from the previous model.

The new phones will be launched in phases in South Korea and various other markets worldwide from 7 August. In South Korea, pre-orders will open from Tuesday next week until 3 August.