The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is just a marginal improvement over its predecessor.

      Samsung has introduced the Galaxy Z Flip 8, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the notably pricier Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. The newest clamshell foldable appears quite similar to its predecessor, although the company has succeeded in reducing its dimensions and incorporating additional AI features into the cover screen.

      Weighing 180 grams and measuring 6.1mm thick when opened, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is Samsung's lightest and thinnest Flip phone to date. It has a folded thickness of 13.1mm, with the 4.1-inch FlexWindow and 6.9-inch main display maintaining the same dimensions as last year's model.

      Samsung is highlighting the cover screen as the key feature of the Flip experience once again. The FlexWindow can display apps, shortcuts, Now Brief cards, and contextual actions, allowing users to access information or perform certain tasks without needing to unfold the device.

      Now Brief now offers more personalized recommendations, customizable cards, and security alerts. The Now Nudge feature, first introduced with the Galaxy S26 series, is also included in the foldable and can detect when a conversation is evolving into plans, suggesting actions such as checking a schedule, locating a venue, or saving a location.

      Gemini Intelligence can be accessed from the FlexWindow using the side key or voice command. Samsung claims it can now automate tasks across over 40 apps and services, including checking tickets, discovering nearby restaurants, and making reservations. With One UI 9, users can view the actions AI agents have performed on their behalf via the AI Assistant Activity dashboard.

      The clamshell phone still features a Camcorder mode with a zoom rocker. It also retains the FlipShot and Mirror View functionalities to further utilize the cover screen for selfies and quick appearance checks. A new feature is that both the wide and ultra-wide cameras can now utilize Horizontal Lock in Super Steady mode to keep video steady.

      When it comes to core hardware, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 appears less revolutionary. It maintains the same camera setup as its predecessor, comprising a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 10MP selfie camera. The 6.9-inch AMOLED display still supports an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, although the peak brightness has been enhanced from 2,600 nits to 3,000 nits. The IP48 water-resistance rating is also carried over.

      Performance is expected to see meaningful improvements thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, paired with 12GB of RAM and storage options of either 256GB or 512GB. However, there have been no enhancements regarding the 4,300mAh battery or charging speeds, which are still capped at 25W for wired charging and 15W for wireless charging.

      Given that the phone is more expensive this year, buyers will need to evaluate whether the faster processor, slimmer design, and new AI features make an upgrade worthwhile.

      The Galaxy Z Flip 8 starts at $1,199.99 in the US, which is $100 more than its predecessor at launch. In Europe, it is priced at €1,299, and in the UK, it costs £1,149. Preorders are currently available, with general availability beginning on August 7. Samsung will offer the device in Pink, Graphite, Cream, and Mint, although Mint will be an online-exclusive color.