Samsung Unveils AI-Powered Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7: Redefining Foldable Smartphones

Samsung's Latest Foldables Aim for Mainstream Appeal Ahead of Apple's Debut

Samsung Electronics Co. introduced three new foldable smartphones in an effort to cement its grip on the category and broaden mainstream appeal before Apple Inc. debuts its first version next year. The new devices, the $2,000 Galaxy Z Fold 7 and $1,100 Galaxy Z Flip 7, are thinner and lighter, advancements that helps Samsung funnel their still-unique benefits into designs that are similar in thickness to standard phones. The handsets address some user complaints about past editions and weave in more artificial intelligence features across the company's software.

Samsung's bet on foldable phones faces major test with slimmer new model

SEOUL, July 9 (Reuters) - Samsung Electronics (005930.KS), opens new tab on Wednesday unveiled thinner, lighter new foldable phones as it aims to fend off Chinese competition in the higher-margin, premium segment that remains untapped by arch rival Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab. The stakes are high. The South Korean company lost its global smartphone crown to Apple in 2023, and faces growing competition from Chinese rivals like Huawei and Honor. Meanwhile, Samsung's mainstay chip business has suffered a profit slump stemming in part from its delayed supply of artificial intelligence chips to Nvidia (NVDA.O), opens new tab. Samsung's mobile president and chief operating officer, Choi Won-joon, said his most important mission was to make Samsung a leader in AI-powered smartphones. "I believe that foldable phones, integrated with AI features, are ready to become mainstream by offering unique, differentiated experience," he told Reuters in his first media interview since being promoted in March. He said Samsung aims to take a leadership position in AI by enhancing cooperation with external partners like Google (GOOGL.O), opens new tab, unlike Apple, which has been using in-house AI technology that has faced delays in adding key features. Samsung also in New York unveiled its first smartwatches equipped with Google's AI voice assistant, Gemini, which can make recommendations to the owner such as good locations for a run, as an example. PREMIUM HALO Samsung said in April that it was pushing ahead with a premium product strategy, as U.S. tariffs threatened to dampen demand and raise component costs. The smartphone maker increased the U.S. price of Galaxy Z Fold 7 to $1,999 by 5% from its predecessor Fold 6, while introducing a less expensive version of its Galaxy Z Flip 7 clamshell phone, Flip 7 FE, priced at $899. Galaxy Z Fold 7 is equipped with Qualcomm's (QCOM.O), opens new tab fast processor, Snapdragon 8 Elite, while Galaxy Z Flip 7 is powered by Samsung's in-house Exynos chips. Analysts said Samsung's new models tackled some of the issues with foldable phones such as bulkiness, and would create a premium halo around the brand. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 weighs 10% less than its predecessor and is 26% thinner. But high prices and a lack of use cases mean foldable phones are likely to remain a niche segment, the analysts said, with data from research firm IDC showing they account for just 1.5% of the total smartphone market. Research firm Canalys predicts Samsung's foldable shipments, which peaked in 2022, will remain flat or slightly declining in 2025, in line with the broader market's flat growth, according to data provided to Reuters. Samsung's foldable smartphones account for 4% of its total phone sales but 16% of those priced over $800, Canalys said. Its data shows Samsung's dominance of the foldable phone segment is being eroded by Honor and Huawei, which are enjoying strong sales, especially in China. Samsung, which held its unveiling event in New York on Wednesday, will focus on the United States, Europe and South Korea for foldable phone sales, Choi said. Choi said Samsung is "working hard" to develop tri-foldable phones, which users can fold three ways, without elaborating on the launch date. Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang; Additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Jamie Freed Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Suggested Topics:China

[Galaxy Unpacked 2025] The Next Chapter in Personalized, Multimodal Galaxy Innovation

▲ Galaxy Unpacked 2025 took place at Duggal Greenhouse in Brooklyn. On July 9, Samsung Electronics hosted Galaxy Unpacked 2025 in Brooklyn -- a borough known for its culture, creativity and spirit of collaboration. Under the theme of "Unfold Ultra," the event reimagined what's possible in the era of mobile AI. The all-new Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE and Galaxy Watch8 series showcased seamless integration of Galaxy AI, redefined form factors and transformative performance. Samsung Newsroom was on the ground at Galaxy Unpacked 2025, where the next chapter of mobile AI innovation unfolded. Building on a legacy of human-centered innovation, Samsung's latest lineup reflects a clear vision -- making AI more meaningful, personal and accessible. From slimmer foldables to personalized health-tracking wearables, these devices chart a bold trajectory for how AI companions can support users in every moment. "When AI is paired with powerful mobile technology, it opens up a whole new world of opportunities," said TM Roh, President, Acting Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division and Head of Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. "The biggest breakthroughs are made when hardware, software and services challenge each other to grow." At the center of this transformation is One UI 8 -- Samsung's next-generation interface designed specifically for foldables, optimized for AI and built on the principles of multimodal understanding and deep personalization. Privacy and security are core to One UI 8. The on-device Personal Data Engine learns from user preferences, while Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection secures and isolates information within the app where it's used. Android 16 is available on the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 at launch -- made possible through close collaboration with Google. Pushing the limits of design, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is the slimmest Z Fold to date. Features like Writing Assist and Drawing Assist help shape thoughts into polished prose and ideas into visuals. Now Brief displays insights -- such as travel advisories, weather updates and exchange rates -- by analyzing location, time and schedule. Circle to Search has evolved to recognize in-game elements and provide contextual assistance without breaking immersion. Meanwhile, Vulkan optimizations boost graphics and responsiveness, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy -- engineered for next-level performance. For the first time, a 200-megapixel wide-angle camera headlines the Z Fold series, empowering users to shoot wide and crop tight without compromise. AI-powered editing tools have been optimized for the large display. Generative Edit now includes a new Suggest Erases feature that automatically detects and removes passersby. Audio Eraser offers intelligent sound isolation -- with support for adjusting up to four sound types at once. Compact yet uncompromising, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is the slimmest Z Flip yet. With a reengineered Flex Hinge and the largest battery in Galaxy Z Flip history, the device features a 6.9-inch bar-type display that delivers vivid visuals through an embedded polarizer. The redesigned 4.1-inch FlexWindow spans edge to edge and supports a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth interaction. To maximize screen space, the bezel has slimmed to just 1.25 millimeters -- nearly a third the thickness of its predecessor. Supporting numerous apps and widgets, One UI 8 brings greater functionality to the cover screen. The Galaxy Z Flip7 is a pocket-perfect AI assistant. Timely information -- such as the day's schedule or current playlist -- appears on Now Bar. Meanwhile, holding the side button activates Google's Gemini for hands-free AI. Gemini Live can even analyze outfits via the camera and suggest style tips based on the weather or calendar events. The 50-megapixel camera delivers sharp detail and true-to-life color thanks to the ProVisual Engine, and FlexCam gives users a one-of-a-kind selfie experience. The revolutionary Galaxy Z Flip design is now even more accessible with the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE -- featuring the same iconic foldable form, complete with a 50-megapixel camera, ProVisual Engine and Galaxy AI. The Galaxy Watch8 series is an evolution in Samsung's design philosophy to create a clearer, more iconic design identity with distinctive cushion design -- first introduced on the Galaxy Watch Ultra. The slim design, combined with Dynamic Lug System provides an unparalleled all-day comfort. Galaxy Watch's sleek form is complemented by its exceptional performance, with a new 3-nanometer processor, dual-frequency GPS and the advanced BioActive Sensor. The new Running Coach feature analyzes users' running level and provides personalized insights to keep users motivated through the tailored coaching program. Simultaneously, Samsung Health informs users when it's time to wind down via the new Bedtime Guidance feature. Vascular Load monitors stress levels on the vascular system during sleep. Meanwhile, the Antioxidant Index uses the BioActive Sensor to measure carotenoid levels, delivering lifestyle insights for healthy aging. The experience of having a true AI companion now comes full circle with the introduction of One UI 8 Watch across the Galaxy Watch8 series. In addition, the Galaxy Watch8 is the first smartwatch to come out of the box with Google's Gemini and be powered by Wear OS 6. Sustainability remains central to Galaxy's design philosophy. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 incorporate nine recycled materials -- including recycled lithium and plastics sourced from discarded fishing nets. These efforts align with Samsung's broader Galaxy for the Planet initiative and reflect an enduring commitment to environmental stewardship. Attendees from around the world gathered in the product experience zone after the announcement, excited to explore the newly launched Galaxy devices. The Galaxy Z Fold7, in particular, drew attention for its noticeably slimmer, lighter build -- with many eager to try it firsthand. "When I first saw the Galaxy Z Fold7, I was surprised by how slim and lightweight it is," said Francisco Javier, a Samsung Member from Spain. "The larger screen makes a big difference." "I love the Galaxy Z Flip7 because there are so many creative ways to use it," said Ana Carolina Sandoval Diaz, an influencer from El Salvador. "I'm always making new content, and this gives me more freedom to do that." "Samsung always surprises us -- and this year, it's how thin the Galaxy Z Fold7 is," said Adi Fida, a journalist from Indonesia. "Despite the larger screen, it still feels easy to use with one hand." "I like that the Galaxy Watch8 focuses on health," said Bilge Suisik, an influencer from Türkiye. "I've never been great at sleeping, so I think it'll help me get back on schedule -- I could really use the reminders." With the Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Z Flip FE and Galaxy Watch8 series, Samsung has made a groundbreaking leap in delivering personalized, intelligent experiences that adapt, anticipate and empower. Galaxy AI is now more deeply embedded than ever across the Galaxy ecosystem -- positioning Samsung at the forefront of a future where mobile technology is both personal and powerful.

Samsung is using AI to redefine its new Z Fold7 and Z Flip7

Samsung has introduced the Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and the Z Flip7 FE as additions to its foldable smartphone lineup, with pre-orders beginning today and general availability scheduled for July 25. Samsung's new Z Fold7 is priced at $1,999, representing a $100 increase over the Z Fold6. The Z Flip7 maintains its $1,100 starting price. A new Z Flip7 FE model is available for $899, designed to attract consumers seeking a foldable device below the $1,000 threshold. The Z Fold7 weighs 218 grams, a reduction from the Fold6's 239 grams. Its folded thickness measures 8.9 mm, down from the Fold6's 12.1 mm. The cover screen has expanded to a 6.5-inch dynamic AMOLED 2x display, while the main screen measures 8 inches when unfolded. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Samsung has integrated a restructured hinge and hinge housing to enhance durability, and the display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2. The main camera has been upgraded to 200 megapixels with an f/1.7 aperture, a notable increase from the previous 50-megapixel camera. Photo editing features include a Photo Assist function, which enables object manipulation, erasure, enlargement, and automatic angle adjustments. This function also employs generative AI to fill empty spaces in images. Users can view edited and original photos concurrently on the unfolded screen. The Z Flip7 is also thinner than its predecessor and features an enlarged 4.1-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, alongside a 6.9-inch main display. Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protects both the cover and back of the device. The Z Flip7 incorporates a 4,300 mAh battery. Unlike the Z Fold7, which uses a 3nm Qualcomm chip, the Z Flip7 is equipped with a 3nm Exynos2500 chip, manufactured by Samsung. The Z Flip7 FE shares specifications with the Z Flip6, including a 4,000 mAh battery, a 3.4-inch cover screen, a 6.7-inch main screen, and the Exynos2400 processor. Samsung may invest in Perplexity and integrate it into Galaxy phones For the first time, Samsung has added DeX support to the Flip series, enabling users to connect the phone to a monitor and use Bluetooth peripherals for a workstation-like experience. A new feature called Now Bar is available on the cover screen, displaying real-time activities such as podcast progress or delivery status. Another feature, Now Brief, provides summaries of traffic, reminders, events, and fitness insights. It also offers music and video recommendations based on existing subscriptions. Samsung has implemented Google features across the new devices. Gemini Live is supported on the Z Flip7's cover screen, allowing users to access the assistant without unfolding the phone, and it integrates with Samsung Notes. All new Z Flip and Z Fold phones will support Gemini Live's camera and video AI features, which allow users to take pictures or videos and pose questions to the AI. An upgraded version of Google's Gemini assistant, featuring an AI mode for Q&A-style conversations, will also be available on these new Samsung devices. The Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Fold7 are available for pre-order today, with general availability commencing on July 25. The Z Flip7 offers 256GB and 512GB storage versions, both with 12GB RAM, and comes in Jetblack, Blue Shadow, and Coralred colorways. The Z Flip7 FE is offered in 128GB and 256GB versions, with 8GB RAM, and is available in white and black. The Z Fold7 provides three storage options: 256GB and 512GB with 12GB RAM, and 1TB with 16GB RAM. Color options include Jetblack, Blue Shadow, and Silver Shadow.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7: Redefining the Flip Experience

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 is set to redefine the concept of a compact, intelligent device that fits seamlessly into your pocket. With its innovative AI capabilities and the largest FlexWindow display ever featured on a Galaxy Z Flip, this phone is engineered for effortless multitasking and personalization. The enhanced FlexWindow, now equipped with Vision Booster technology, guarantees vibrant visuals even in bright outdoor environments, while the device's AI-powered features transform it into a true personal assistant. From voice commands to real-time task management, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is a pocket-sized powerhouse that adapts to your unique lifestyle, making it an indispensable companion for the modern user. The Galaxy Z Flip7's AI capabilities extend beyond mere voice recognition. It learns from your usage patterns, anticipating your needs and offering proactive suggestions. Whether it's recommending the most efficient route to your next meeting or automatically organizing your photos based on location and subject, this device is designed to streamline your daily tasks. The AI-powered camera system not only captures stunning images but also offers real-time editing suggestions, ensuring your photos are always social media-ready. The Galaxy Z Flip7 is not just a showcase of intelligence; it also excels in durability and style. Weighing a mere 188 grams and measuring just 13.7mm when folded, it is the slimmest Galaxy Z Flip to date. Its Armor Aluminum Frame and Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 provide robust protection against the wear and tear of daily use. The redesigned Armor FlexHinge not only enhances durability but also maintains the device's sleek, foldable design. Whether you're navigating a busy commute or capturing life's precious moments, this device is built to withstand the rigors of modern living without compromising on aesthetic appeal. The Galaxy Z Flip7's design is a testament to Samsung's commitment to craftsmanship. The smooth, contoured edges provide a comfortable grip, while the matte finish resists fingerprints and smudges. The device's compact form factor allows for easy one-handed use, making it the perfect companion for those always on the move. When unfolded, the expansive main screen offers an immersive viewing experience, ideal for streaming videos, gaming, or browsing the web. The Galaxy Z Flip7 is set to hit the market with pre-orders starting from July 9, and general availability commencing on July 25. It will be offered in a range of stunning color options, including Blue Shadow, Jet-Black, Coral-Red, and an online-exclusive Mint. For those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative, the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE will be available in classic Black and White. Samsung Care+ provides additional peace of mind, offering coverage for accidental damage and repairs. As a bonus, buyers can enjoy six months of expanded access to Google AI Pro and 2TB of cloud storage at no extra cost, further enhancing the device's AI capabilities and storage capacity. The pricing of the Galaxy Z Flip7 is yet to be officially announced, but industry experts anticipate it will be in line with previous models, offering a premium experience at a competitive price point. Samsung is known for providing attractive trade-in offers and financing options, making it easier for consumers to upgrade to the latest technology. With the Galaxy Z Flip7, Samsung is not only offering an innovative device but also a comprehensive ecosystem of services and support. The Galaxy Z Flip7's specifications showcase Samsung's commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone technology. The 6.9-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X main screen offers a stunning visual experience, with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The 4.1-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow not only provides quick access to notifications and controls but also serves as a viewfinder for the camera, allowing high-quality selfies and video calls. The triple-camera system, featuring a 50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra-Wide, and 10MP Selfie Camera, is a photographer's dream. With advanced AI processing, the camera system captures incredible detail in any lighting condition, while the Ultra-Wide lens is perfect for expansive landscapes or group shots. The 4,300mAh battery, coupled with fast wired and wireless charging, ensures the device keeps up with your busy lifestyle. Under the hood, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is powered by the latest 3nm Exynos 2500 processor, offering lightning-fast performance and efficient power management. The IP48 water resistance rating provides peace of mind against accidental spills or rain, while the Android 16 with One UI 8 offers a smooth, intuitive user experience. With 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity, the device is future-proofed for the next generation of wireless technology. For those intrigued by the Galaxy Z Flip7, Samsung also offers the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, a more budget-friendly option that retains many of the flagship model's features. This device is perfect for those who want to experience the innovative foldable design and AI capabilities without breaking the bank. Beyond the Z Flip7 lineup, the broader Galaxy ecosystem includes devices like the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Watch6, which seamlessly integrate with the Z Flip7 for a connected, cohesive experience. The Galaxy Z Fold7 offers an even larger foldable screen, ideal for productivity and multimedia, while the Galaxy Watch6 provides fitness tracking, health monitoring, and smart notifications right on your wrist. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone who simply appreciates a reliable and stylish device, the Galaxy Z Flip7 lineup has something to offer. With its innovative AI, durable design, and powerful specifications, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is poised to redefine the future of pocket-sized smartphones. As Samsung continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what's possible, the Galaxy Z Flip7 stands as a testament to the company's commitment to delivering exceptional devices that enhance our daily lives.

Samsung says new foldable phones with AI 'ready to become mainstream'...

Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled thinner, lighter new foldable phones as it aims to fend off Chinese competition in the higher-margin, premium segment that remains untapped by arch rival Apple. The stakes are high. The South Korean company lost its global smartphone crown to Apple in 2023, and faces growing competition from Chinese rivals like Huawei and Honor. Meanwhile, Samsung's mainstay chip business has suffered a profit slump stemming in part from its delayed supply of artificial intelligence chips to Nvidia. Samsung's mobile president and chief operating officer, Choi Won-joon, said his most important mission was to make Samsung a leader in AI-powered smartphones. "I believe that foldable phones, integrated with AI features, are ready to become mainstream by offering unique, differentiated experience," he told Reuters in his first media interview since being promoted in March. He said Samsung aims to take a leadership position in AI by enhancing cooperation with external partners like Google, unlike Apple, which has been using in-house AI technology that has faced delays in adding key features. Samsung also in New York unveiled its first smartwatches equipped with Google's AI voice assistant, Gemini, which can make recommendations to the owner such as good locations for a run, as an example. Samsung said in April that it was pushing ahead with a premium product strategy, as US tariffs threatened to dampen demand and raise component costs. The smartphone maker increased the US price of Galaxy Z Fold 7 to $1,999 by 5% from its predecessor Fold 6, while introducing a less expensive version of its Galaxy Z Flip 7 clamshell phone, Flip 7 FE, priced at $899. Galaxy Z Fold 7 is equipped with Qualcomm's fast processor, Snapdragon 8 Elite, while Galaxy Z Flip 7 is powered by Samsung's in-house Exynos chips. Analysts said Samsung's new models tackled some of the issues with foldable phones such as bulkiness, and would create a premium halo around the brand. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 weighs 10% less than its predecessor and is 26% thinner. But high prices and a lack of use cases mean foldable phones are likely to remain a niche segment, the analysts said, with data from research firm IDC showing they account for just 1.5% of the total smartphone market. Research firm Canalys predicts Samsung's foldable shipments, which peaked in 2022, will remain flat or slightly declining in 2025, in line with the broader market's flat growth, according to data provided to Reuters. Samsung's foldable smartphones account for 4% of its total phone sales but 16% of those priced over $800, Canalys said. Its data shows Samsung's dominance of the foldable phone segment is being eroded by Honor and Huawei, which are enjoying strong sales, especially in China. Samsung, which held its unveiling event in New York on Wednesday, will focus on the United States, Europe and South Korea for foldable phone sales, Choi said. Choi said Samsung is "working hard" to develop tri-foldable phones, which users can fold three ways, without elaborating on the launch date.

Samsung's bet on foldable phones faces major test with slimmer new model

SEOUL (Reuters) -Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled thinner, lighter new foldable phones as it aims to fend off Chinese competition in the higher-margin, premium segment that remains untapped by arch rival Apple. The stakes are high. The South Korean company lost its global smartphone crown to Apple in 2023, and faces growing competition from Chinese rivals like Huawei and Honor. Meanwhile, Samsung's mainstay chip business has suffered a profit slump stemming in part from its delayed supply of artificial intelligence chips to Nvidia. Samsung's mobile president and chief operating officer, Choi Won-joon, said his most important mission was to make Samsung a leader in AI-powered smartphones. "I believe that foldable phones, integrated with AI features, are ready to become mainstream by offering unique, differentiated experience," he told Reuters in his first media interview since being promoted in March. He said Samsung aims to take a leadership position in AI by enhancing cooperation with external partners like Google, unlike Apple, which has been using in-house AI technology that has faced delays in adding key features. Samsung also in New York unveiled its first smartwatches equipped with Google's AI voice assistant, Gemini, which can make recommendations to the owner such as good locations for a run, as an example. PREMIUM HALO Samsung said in April that it was pushing ahead with a premium product strategy, as U.S. tariffs threatened to dampen demand and raise component costs. The smartphone maker increased the U.S. price of Galaxy Z Fold 7 to $1,999 by 5% from its predecessor Fold 6, while introducing a less expensive version of its Galaxy Z Flip 7 clamshell phone, Flip 7 FE, priced at $899. Galaxy Z Fold 7 is equipped with Qualcomm's fast processor, Snapdragon 8 Elite, while Galaxy Z Flip 7 is powered by Samsung's in-house Exynos chips. Analysts said Samsung's new models tackled some of the issues with foldable phones such as bulkiness, and would create a premium halo around the brand. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 weighs 10% less than its predecessor and is 26% thinner. But high prices and a lack of use cases mean foldable phones are likely to remain a niche segment, the analysts said, with data from research firm IDC showing they account for just 1.5% of the total smartphone market. Research firm Canalys predicts Samsung's foldable shipments, which peaked in 2022, will remain flat or slightly declining in 2025, in line with the broader market's flat growth, according to data provided to Reuters. Samsung's foldable smartphones account for 4% of its total phone sales but 16% of those priced over $800, Canalys said. Its data shows Samsung's dominance of the foldable phone segment is being eroded by Honor and Huawei, which are enjoying strong sales, especially in China. Samsung, which held its unveiling event in New York on Wednesday, will focus on the United States, Europe and South Korea for foldable phone sales, Choi said. Choi said Samsung is "working hard" to develop tri-foldable phones, which users can fold three ways, without elaborating on the launch date. In the meantime, Choi said Samsung accelerated output and shipments of smartphones bound for the U.S. to mitigate the impact of looming U.S. tariffs, without giving details. Samsung produces its smartphones in Vietnam, which accounts for more than half of its phone output, as well as in South Korea and India. He also said Samsung has been tackling China's export curbs on rare earth and rare earth magnets by diversifying suppliers beyond the dominant supplier and significantly increasing its own internal stockpiles. (Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang; Additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Jamie Freed)

Samsung to fend off Chinese foldable phone rivals with slimmer model

SEOUL (Reuters) -Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled thinner, lighter foldable phones as it aims to fend off Chinese competition in the higher-margin, premium segment that remains untapped by arch rival Apple. The stakes are high. The South Korean company lost its global smartphone crown to Apple in 2023 and faces growing competition from Chinese rivals like Huawei and Honor. Meanwhile, Samsung's mainstay chip business has suffered a profit slump stemming in part from its delayed supply of artificial intelligence chips to Nvidia. Samsung's mobile president and chief operating officer, Choi Won-joon, said his most important mission was to make Samsung a leader in AI-powered smartphones. "I believe that foldable phones, integrated with AI features, are ready to become mainstream by offering a unique, differentiated experience," he told Reuters in his first media interview since being promoted in March. He said Samsung aims to take a leadership position in AI by enhancing cooperation with external partners like Google, unlike Apple, which has been using in-house AI technology that has faced delays in adding key features. Samsung also in New York unveiled its first smartwatches equipped with Google's AI voice assistant, Gemini, which can make recommendations to the owner such as good locations for a run. PREMIUM HALO Samsung said in April that it was pushing ahead with a premium product strategy as U.S. tariffs threatened to dampen demand and raise component costs. The smartphone maker increased the U.S. price of its Galaxy Z Fold 7 by 5% to $1,999 from its predecessor Fold 6, while introducing a less expensive version of its Galaxy Z Flip 7 clamshell phone, Flip 7 FE, priced at $899. Galaxy Z Fold 7 is equipped with Qualcomm's super-fast processor Snapdragon 8 Elite, while Galaxy Z Flip 7 is powered by Samsung's in-house Exynos chips. Analysts said Samsung's new models tackled some of the issues with foldable phones such as bulkiness, and would create a premium halo around the brand. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 weighs 10% less than its predecessor and is 26% thinner. But high prices and a lack of use cases mean foldable phones are likely to remain a niche segment, the analysts said, with data from research firm IDC showing they account for just 1.5% of the total smartphone market. Research firm Canalys predicts Samsung's foldable shipments, which peaked in 2022, will remain flat or slightly decline in 2025, in line with the broader market's flat growth, according to data provided to Reuters. Samsung's foldable smartphones account for 4% of its total phone sales but 16% of those priced over $800, Canalys said. Its data shows Samsung's dominance of the foldable phone segment is being eroded by Honor and Huawei, which are enjoying strong sales, especially in China. Samsung, which held its unveiling event in New York on Wednesday, will focus on the United States, Europe and South Korea for foldable phone sales, Choi said. At a press conference later on Wednesday following the launch event, TM Roh, president and acting head of Samsung's device experience division, said Samsung is working towards launching a tri-foldable phone, which users can fold three ways, by the end of the year. In the meantime, Choi said Samsung accelerated output and shipments of smartphones bound for the U.S. to mitigate the impact of looming U.S. tariffs, without giving details. Samsung produces its smartphones in Vietnam, which accounts for more than half of its phone output, as well as in South Korea and India. He also said Samsung has been tackling China's export curbs on rare earths and rare earth magnets by diversifying suppliers beyond the dominant supplier and significantly increasing its own internal stockpiles. (Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang; Additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Jamie Freed and Christopher Cushing)

Samsung's bet on folding phones faces big test with new model

STORY: Samsung unveiled its latest folding phones at an event in New York on Wednesday (July 9). The new devices are premium models, priced from $899 to almost $2,000 in the U.S. And there's a lot riding on their success. The South Korean company lost its crown as the top smartphone maker to Apple in 2023. And it's facing mounting competition from Chinese rivals like Honor and Huawei. Meanwhile, the firm's mainstay chip business has seen profits slump, partly thanks to a delay in supplying products to U.S. AI chip champion Nvidia. But Samsung President and Acting Head of Device Experience TM Roh said the company is betting big on AI in consumer products: "Galaxy AI has become your very own human-like AI companion, elevating the way you connect, create, and lead every single day." Samsung wants to take a leading role in artificial intelligence by partnering with major players like Google. At the same event, it launched smartwatches fitted with the tech giant's Gemini AI assistant. Analysts said the new handsets tackled some of the issues with earlier models, including reducing the bulk of the devices. Some said the slim new phones would help give Samsung's whole range a premium sheen. But they cautioned that high prices mean foldable phones will remain a niche product. Right now, they account for just 1.5% of the smartphone market, according to data from research firm IDC.