The foldable device market is decisively transitioning from a phase of technological experimentation into a mature, premium segment. As the primary architect of this category, Samsung continues to strike a delicate balance between pushing the boundaries of innovation and aggressively recalibrating the pricing of its flagship offerings. Recent leaks from the European market point toward a systemic price hike, signaling the company's strategic intent to solidify the status of its devices as luxury assets. The official launch of the updated lineup across the continent is expected to take place on July 22.
The evolution of foldable smartphones is driving an inevitable increase in internal complexity and component costs—a trend that is now reflecting directly in the price lists. With the compact Galaxy Z Flip 8, Samsung is adopting a strategy of moderate yet perceptible price hikes. The 256GB model will retail for €1,299, a €100 increase over its predecessor. The 512GB variant will be even steeper at €1,499, widening the gap with the previous generation to €180.
Of particular interest is the strategic restructuring of the Fold series hierarchy. Samsung is introducing a structural division that may prove counterintuitive for the casual consumer: the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is being positioned as a fundamentally new entry-level model in the lineup, while the direct successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will now carry the "Ultra" suffix. Consequently, the Fold 8 becomes the "base" flagship for the large-screen segment, with pricing ranging from €1,999 for the 256GB version to €2,599 for the maximum 1TB capacity.
The true pinnacle of Samsung's engineering will be embodied in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. This model assumes the role of the primary successor to the Fold 7, and its pricing reflects its status as a no-compromise device. The base 256GB version will cost €2,199 (up €100 from its predecessor), while the 512GB model will be priced at €2,399 (up €180). The top-tier 1TB modification will reach €2,799, representing a €280 increase over the equivalent version from the previous generation.
Beyond smartphones, Samsung is refreshing its wearables ecosystem. The Galaxy Watch 9 lineup will maintain its established segmentation by case size (40mm and 44mm) and connectivity (Bluetooth and LTE). Bluetooth versions will be priced at €409 and €439 respectively, marking a €30–€40 increase. LTE-enabled variants will cost €459 and €489, showing a price climb of between €30 and €50.
Rounding out the ecosystem is the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. Designed for extreme environments and maximum battery endurance, this device will be available exclusively in an LTE configuration. It will retail for €749, €50 more than the first Ultra iteration. This approach confirms a broader trend: Samsung is systematically raising the price of admission to its ecosystem, betting on brand loyalty and technological superiority.
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