Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy Z Fold8 has achieved record domestic preorders of 1.44 million units and surpassed 5 million global sales, driven by a thinner, lighter “passport-size” form factor that is capturing younger consumers and traditional iPhone users, according to Samsung and industry reports.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Domestic Preorders and Global Sales Reach Record Highs
Domestic preorders for the Galaxy Z Fold8 reached 1.44 million units, marking the highest figure ever recorded for a Galaxy device, according to company data. Cumulative global sales have now surpassed 5 million units. Samsung.com data indicates that half of preorder customers fell within their teens, 20s, or 30s, with purchases by women in this demographic more than doubling compared to the previous model. According to an industry source, this shift is notable given that 67 percent of Korean women in their 20s typically use iPhones.
Passport-Style Design Appeals to iPhone Users
The device features a new passport-style form factor measuring 201 grams, making it the lightest foldable Samsung has ever produced. At the Samsung Store Hongdae in Seoul, consumers cited the lightweight build and aesthetic photo quality as reasons for bypassing Apple devices. According to 26-year-old Jeong Da-um, who switched from an iPhone 17 Pro to the Fold8, the hardware immediately attracted attention. Similar consumer trends appeared in Japan, where some Fold8 models temporarily sold out following their Aug. 7 launch in a market where iPhones account for more than half of smartphone use, according to IT engineer Leo Yasumura.
Pro Tip: When evaluating passport-style foldables, compare the outer screen dimensions and weight specs directly against traditional slab phones to gauge pocketability and one-handed usability.
Technological Advances Behind the Passport Form Factor
The slim design stems from a 13-year development timeline that originated with a 4:3 concept presented at CES in 2013. According to Samsung, engineers and Samsung Display applied a titanium alloy film approximately 20 times stronger than previous materials, reducing display thickness by 12 percent. A new reinforced titanium plate with micro-holes was also developed to support the folding area and reduce the visible crease.
Did You Know? The Fold8 design was explicitly inspired by the physical dimensions of a passport, aiming to offer a device that fits comfortably in one hand while opening into a larger display.
Market Competition and Upcoming Apple Foldable Rivalry
Samsung’s early entry into the passport-style foldable market places it ahead of expected competitors. Apple plans to release its own 4:3 foldable smartphone, anticipated as the “iPhone Ultra,” in September. According to Samsung Electronics Device eXperience head Roh Tae-moon, the company welcomes market entry from competitors to help mature the category. Meanwhile, Professor Lee Seong-yeob of Korea University note that maintaining price competitiveness and strengthening the AI ecosystem will be critical for Samsung to retain its top position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the domestic preorder numbers for the Galaxy Z Fold8?
Domestic preorders reached 1.44 million units, marking the highest ever recorded for a Galaxy device, according to Samsung.
How much does the Galaxy Z Fold8 weigh?
The Galaxy Z Fold8 weighs 201 grams, making it Samsung’s lightest foldable device to date.
When was the Galaxy Z Fold8 released?
The official release date for the Galaxy Z Fold8 was August 7.
What inspired the design of the Fold8?
The design was inspired by a passport to allow the device to fit comfortably in one hand while providing a large display when unfolded.
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