Samsung Electronics’ next-generation foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold8 series, have claimed the top two spots in product evaluations by major consumer publications across five European countries. Following top-tier ratings in the North American market, the series is now gaining momentum in global sales expansion with equally strong recognition in Europe.
According to industry sources on the 27th, the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra swept the highest rankings in foldable smartphone evaluations conducted respectively by Italy’s Altroconsumo, Spain’s OCU, Portugal’s DECO PROTESTE, the Netherlands’ Consumentenbond, and Belgium’s Test Achats.
By country, the Fold8 ranked first with 81 points in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, while the Fold8 Ultra took second with 80 points. In the Netherlands, both devices received 8.2 points to tie for first place, and in Belgium, they shared the top score at 80 points each. The two devices were also selected for the “Best of Test” designation—awarded to the highest-rated products—in four countries: Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Belgium.
These results align with evaluations in the U.S. market. In foldable smartphone testing conducted by U.S. consumer publication Consumer Reports, the Fold8 Ultra claimed the top spot, with the Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 also ranking among the highest. Samsung Electronics has effectively earned simultaneous recognition for its next-generation foldable lineup’s product quality in both the North American and European markets.
Weight Reduction and Screen Ratio Improvements Drive Ratings
The positive reception of the Fold8 series stems from fundamental changes to its form factor. Samsung Electronics reduced the weight compared to its predecessor while redesigning the screen aspect ratios. The key change was adjusting the cover display’s width-to-height ratio so the device can be used similarly to a standard bar-type smartphone even when folded.
Specifically, the Fold8 Ultra features a large 203.1mm main display, while the Fold8 offers a 193.2mm main display with a 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded and a 138.4mm cover display with a 10:16 aspect ratio when folded. Whereas previous models emphasized work productivity, this generation is characterized by enhanced everyday content consumption and portability.
Sales Performance Also Outpaces Predecessor
The product improvements are also reflected in early sales indicators. According to market research firm Counterpoint Research, the Galaxy Z8 series achieved an 8% increase in global sales volume during the first two weeks after launch compared to its predecessor, the Z7 series. During this period, the Fold8 accounted for approximately 57% of total Z8 series sales, establishing itself as the lineup’s flagship model.
By region, initial purchases of the Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra in the United States increased 30% compared to the previous Fold7, while combined sales of the two devices in Europe after launch rose 50% versus the prior generation. The Galaxy Z8 series launched on August 8.
The evaluations by European consumer publications carry significant weight in market credibility, as they are conducted by organizations representing consumer protection and product quality verification in each country. Samsung Electronics’ consecutive top-tier results in these evaluations are interpreted as an important signal for maintaining leadership in the foldable phone market.
With the foldable phone market absorbing premium replacement demand centered on North America and Europe, Samsung Electronics’ latest achievement is expected to solidify its competitive edge over rivals in both hardware refinement and user experience.