Samsung's upcoming flip phone might demand a higher price while providing little in the way of new features.

      Price increases may impact the Galaxy Z Flip 8 the most

      Samsung appears to be ready to increase prices significantly for a foldable phone that is largely similar to its predecessor. Reliable source Roland Quandt has indicated that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 will closely resemble the Galaxy Z Flip 7, featuring only a new processor as the main hardware improvement.

      A recent South Korean pricing report suggests that the new model will be priced at 1,683,000 won, marking an increase of 198,000 won, or about $130, compared to the original price of its predecessor in Korea. However, Samsung has not yet confirmed these details.

      A familiar design with minor performance enhancements

      The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is anticipated to utilize Samsung's Exynos 2600 processor, while some regions might receive Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 instead. Earlier reports hinted that Samsung was contemplating a regional chip strategy, as Qualcomm's processor could be less expensive for the company compared to its own Exynos chips.

      Other aspects surrounding the chip are expected to remain largely the same. The leak points to a continued use of a 6.9-inch, 120Hz folding display and a 4.1-inch cover screen. Its camera setup is likely to include a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP selfie camera, which was the same configuration used in the Galaxy Z Flip 7, with the main and ultrawide hardware also borrowed from the Flip 6.

      The battery is expected to stay at 4,300mAh, and previous leaks suggest that Samsung will continue to offer 25W wired charging. If these speculations are accurate, it paints a disappointing picture of the next-generation flip phone. However, this isn't surprising given the focus on the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra/Wide.

      A sleeker design may be a small consolation

      There is a possibility that the brand is aiming for a refined experience rather than making substantial changes. Another leak indicates that a redesigned hinge could lower the phone's weight from 188 grams to 180 grams, reduce its thickness when unfolded to 6.1mm, and make the display crease less visible. These enhancements might offer a more comfortable and polished feel to the Flip 8, even if they do little to improve its battery, camera, and charging limitations.

      I would prefer a larger battery with fast charging and camera hardware that aligns better with this price point. Thus, for owners of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, the new model may not justify an upgrade. This situation also leaves Samsung exposed to its own discounts; following the release of the Flip 8, reduced prices on the Flip 7 could make last year's model a more appealing choice. It's important to note that this remains an unverified report, and Samsung is set to unveil its new Galaxy devices during Unpacked 2026 on July 22.