Samsung increases its foldable smartphone sales targets by 10%
As the first folding iPhone approaches, Samsung is ramping up its efforts to refine its Galaxy Z lineup. The Korean giant has raised its sales targets and outlined an ambitious roadmap for its upcoming foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8.
This renewed focus may shift the Galaxy S26 series to the back burner.
Samsung raises sales objectives
According to a Korean report, Samsung has decided to increase its combined sales forecast for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 by 10%, aiming for a total of 6.7 million units.
This is a significant increase, especially considering that Samsung had previously lowered its targets during earlier generations due to perceived weak demand.
This renewed confidence stems from the commercial success of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, which marked a turning point in the public perception of foldables: they are now seen as more advanced, durable products that have gained popularity among the general public.
The foldable iPhone as a catalyst for innovation
The imminent arrival of Apple’s foldable iPhone seems to have acted as a wake-up call. Samsung, often criticized for slowing the pace of innovation in its foldable smartphones, has rediscovered its competitive spirit.
The report indicates that the enhancements made in the Galaxy Z Fold 7 are “just the beginning.”
For the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Samsung aims for an even thinner and lighter design, while also enhancing the hinge and screen durability. On the other hand, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 will benefit from overall refinement, featuring more robust materials and an interface better suited to its compact design.
Samsung now views the Flip series as having significant commercial potential, particularly among younger and female audiences who are more attuned to design and portability.
The downside: Galaxy S26 series takes a back seat
However, this foldable-focused strategy may come at a cost. While the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8 are receiving massive investments, the Galaxy S26 series appears to be pushed aside.
Initial leaks suggest a lack of major evolution regarding design or camera performance. Even the Galaxy S26 Ultra, the flagship model, is expected to receive only minor improvements.
“I hope that Samsung will start taking care of its S series again with the Galaxy S27,” comments the analyst from the report, “while continuing to refine its foldables.”
Users are notably calling for larger batteries, more original designs, and a return to the premium finish that once defined the S lineup.
A risky but visionary strategy
By betting on foldable smartphones, Samsung aims to establish itself against Apple before the iPhone Fold arrives. It’s a bold move: the brand is cementing its leadership in a rapidly growing market but risks allowing its classic models to stagnate.
However, if the rumors are true, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 could become the thinnest and most powerful foldable ever designed, while the Galaxy Z Flip 8 aims to become an accessible best-seller.
An early foldable battle
Samsung appears poised to accelerate the transition into a “post-classic smartphone” era, where foldable devices become the new premium standard.
But for this strategy to succeed, it will need to maintain the excellence of the Galaxy S series, which remains a symbol of the brand’s historical craftsmanship.
If Samsung focuses too much on foldables, it risks losing part of its loyal customer base. However, if it manages to balance both lineups, it may once again outpace Apple in the realm of hardware innovation.
