Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 could mark the end of a years-long tradition
This is the end, hold your breath and count to … 8
by Chris Hall · T3
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Quick Summary
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 could be the last small folding phone that Samsung produces, according to a renowned leaker.
That would see the format handed to Motorola, which currently offers three different models in its Razr range.
Shock news comes from a reliable source, with the suggestion that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 could be the last in the series. That's right, Samsung could move away from small format folding phones.
That might come as a shock to many, with the Flip offering a nostalgic hook to clamshell phones of the past and popular with buyers because it's a compact device.
The source of the information – Universe Ice – doesn't offer a reason why, but this rumour has to be taken seriously because of the source.
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Traditionally, the Z Flip model outsold the Z Fold, although it's said that that situation reversed in 2025 with the launch of the slimmer and lighter Z Fold 7. However, this doesn't take into account that these phones appeal to completely different users.
There isn't a pot of people determined to buy a folding phone, no matter the format: the Flip is attractive because it has retro charm and is really compact, the Fold's appeal is in offering more screen space. Those are totally different traits.
However, despite the Z Flip model outselling the Z Fold, figures that came from IDC early in 2026 told us that in the US, Motorola had over 50% folding phone market share – and at that time, Motorola only offered flip-type folding phones. This, if nothing else, demonstrates appetite for the format.
But Motorola has had tiered folding devices for a couple of years, with a Razr Ultra model at the top (the latest being the Razr 70 Ultra) and a regular Razr 70 lower down. There's even a Plus model in the middle.
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This gives buyer more choice, with lower entry prices to such devices. Samsung didn't make this move until 2025, introducing the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE.
Samsung exiting the market would be a gift for Motorola. While both brands (and all brands) are struggling with rising prices because of the demands that AI is putting on the industry, it's currently a market split between two players.
Samsung might, perhaps, be looking at pressing pause on smaller folding phones until it can reduce the costs to make it more profitable, or it might have simply decided that enough is enough.
This is definitely a rumour to keep an eye on: the end of the Galaxy Z Flip would be a sad day indeed.
TOPICS
Samsung