When Samsung launched its very first foldable device back in 2019, it opened the door to a brand-new way of interacting with mobile technology. Since then, the category has exploded. According to Nathan Rigger, Head of Product for Mobile at Samsung Australia, the local install base of foldable users has grown to three times the size since 2021.
Now, with the arrival of the 8th generation, Samsung is splitting its focus. Alongside the powerhouse Ultra model, the company has introduced a completely redesigned standard Galaxy Z Fold 8—and it’s brand-new form factor is worthy of attention. Tech Daily discussed the new device with Samsung Australia’s Nathan Rigger.
The Passport and Wallet Form Factor
If you’ve ever felt that traditional foldables are a bit bulky in the pocket, Samsung has listened. The standard Fold 8 introduces a completely different physical shape designed for everyday carry.
“So this is a new passport or wallet style form factor. So when it fits in your hand, it feels very similar to the size of a wallet or a passport. So it fits nicely in the hand, really nice in the pocket, but when you unfold it you’re getting a big 7.6-inch display.”
This compact closed footprint translates into what Samsung is claiming is the lightest foldable in its class, perfectly tailored for users who prioritize ergonomics without sacrificing screen real estate.
Built for the Lightest, Most Portable Experience
Weight and pocketability have historically been deciding factors for smartphone buyers. Rigger points out that recent consumer surveys validate just how much everyday ergonomics matter to Australian shoppers.
“Absolutely. So it is the lightest fold in market today. And as I mentioned, fits beautifully in the hand, feels really lightweight, nicely in the pocket. And what we’ve seen actually is through some recent surveys that we’ve done, around 84% of Australians have said that things like size and portability rank amongst the highest when looking to make a decision about which smartphone. So people care about how big is the screen, how does it fit in my pocket, does it feel too heavy in the hand? So what we’ve come up with is a solution that gives you the best of foldables in something that is really lightweight and portable.”
Dual-Purpose Media Consumption: Landscape and Portrait
Beyond just carrying easier, the Fold 8’s new dimensions shine when you unfold the device. Whether you are catching up on media or reading on the go, the aspect ratio has been meticulously engineered for daily content consumption.
“What you’re getting in the Fold 8 is a completely new experience based on two key things: portability, so much more lightweight and portable, but secondly, it’s all around content consumption. So when you unfold it in landscape, perfect viewing experience for watching the World Cup, your favourite TVs, movies, or even YouTube. So it’s a great aspect ratio for that, minimises the bars that you see so you get an immersive viewing experience. Then you can tip it portrait and it’s like an e-book or an e-reader. So you can get immersed in your favourite book, or maybe it’s a magazine, or maybe even just scrolling through websites. It is really the perfect size for content consumption.”
By pairing a pocketable closed footprint with a massive, versatile 7.6-inch internal display, the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 proves that the next wave of foldable innovation isn’t just about raw power—it’s about making big screens feel entirely natural in your everyday life.