Samsung's Top Foldable Costs $2,200 and Skips Stylus Support

Samsung has introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, a premium device that starts at roughly $2,000 in the US market. According to reports from GN technics/mobile (en-US), this new model is selling well in Europe despite the high cost. It represents the top tier of Samsung's foldable lineup, designed to push the boundaries of display technology, battery capacity, and camera performance within the Z-series ecosystem.

The device is not for everyone. By dropping the stylus support found in previous generations, Samsung has narrowed the target audience. The trade-off is a focus on core hardware improvements. If you value a digital pen for notes or drawing, this specific model removes that functionality to prioritize other engineering goals, such as a thinner profile and better internal components.

Hardware upgrades focus on speed and battery life

Under the hood, the phone switches to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. Independent testing shows a significant jump in processing power, with single-core speeds increasing by more than 20 percent compared to the previous generation. This ensures that demanding apps run more smoothly, though the primary benefit for most users will be in everyday responsiveness rather than raw gaming performance.

The most noticeable change, however, is in endurance. The new silicon-carbon battery allows for a thinner device while maintaining higher capacity. Users can expect nearly three hours of additional usage time compared to the last model. Additionally, charging speeds have improved dramatically. The phone now supports 45-watt fast charging, reducing the time to a full charge from about 90 minutes to just 70 minutes, despite the battery being physically larger.

Display improvements reduce the visible crease

A major pain point for foldable phones has always been the deep crease in the center of the screen. Samsung has introduced a new titanium hinge that mitigates this issue. The 8-inch OLED panel is now brighter by about 15 percent, and the central fold is barely noticeable to the eye. This makes the reading and viewing experience much closer to that of a standard, rigid smartphone.

Premium camera system targets photography enthusiasts

For those who care about image quality, the Ultra model offers a distinct advantage over the standard version. It features a 200-megapixel main sensor and a dedicated telephoto lens. This setup delivers excellent results in low-light conditions and offers the flexibility of a foldable form factor without significant compromises in optical quality. It is a clear choice for users who want professional-grade photos in a portable device.

Ultimately, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is a niche product. It is the clear leader in the Z-series for those who want the best display, battery, and camera hardware available. However, the price tag ensures it remains out of reach for the average consumer. Upgrading from the previous model is worthwhile if battery life was a concern, but those who miss the stylus or prefer a wider outer screen may find the standard model a better fit.