New Features Help Users Capture, Personalize, and Manage

One UI 9 introduces new ways to keep people in focus, tailor the information users see each day, and manage device care more easily.

• My FanCam[2] automatically tracks a selected person in a recorded video and keeps them centered, intelligently reframing the footage as the scene moves. This allows users to turn dynamic moments into social-ready content with less manual editing. Whether it’s a child’s performance, a friend on the dance floor, or an exciting moment during a sporting event, users can instantly put the focus on the person they want to see.

• The new Generative and Editable Cards on Now Brief[3] help users choose what appears in their daily summaries. Users can create cards across health, weather, and video so their daily brief reflects the information most relevant to them.
• Warranty and Care[4] brings device support and protection directly into the Settings menu. Users can now check warranty coverage across connected mobile devices, run self-diagnostics, view repair estimates, and manage Samsung Care+ or book a service appointment with just a few taps.

Enhanced Capabilities Help Users Do More With Less Effort

One UI 9 builds on familiar Galaxy experiences to help users complete everyday tasks in fewer steps, with context-aware suggestions, timely creative prompts, and improvements to translation, scanning, and recording.

• Now Nudge[5] can surface timely, context-aware suggestions across more moments in the Galaxy experience, helping users take the next step without breaking their flow. For example, when making plans over text, users can pull up reservation details or save a shared location without leaving the conversation.
• Creative Studio now suggests image-generation ideas based on relevant upcoming events. For example, when a friend’s birthday is approaching, users may see a prompt to create a themed image or greeting, allowing them to quickly create something meaningful for the occasion.
• Interpreter[6] introduces a new Thread View that enables users to better follow translated conversations by quickly referencing earlier exchanges. In addition, faster translation in Conversation Mode and quicker playback with compatible Galaxy Buds help reduce delays, making conversations feel more natural and continuous.
• Document Scan now allows users to digitize challenging materials such as curved book pages and corner-folded papers with less manual adjustment. The large-screen-optimized views on compatible Galaxy devices, along with an improved Finger Eraser, help create cleaner and more usable scans.
• Voice Recorder presents summaries in a clearer, more structured format, using elements such as headings and tables to make key information easier to scan at a glance.

Enhanced Security and Privacy Help Users Stay Informed and in Control

One UI 9 continues Samsung’s approach to security and privacy with transparency, choice, and control built into the experience. The latest updates help users better understand when something may need their attention and make it easier to take action.

• Security Brief brings key security and privacy updates like alerts for malware, apps from unknown sources, and unnecessary permissions to Now Brief, helping users identify potential issues earlier and determine when action is necessary.
• Privacy Alerts[7] use on-device AI to identify potential privacy risks, including unnecessary attempts to access permissions in the background, giving users greater awareness of how their information is being accessed.
• Scam Detection[8] expands to additional countries[9] and languages, bringing protection against potential scam calls to more Galaxy users across supported markets.

[1] As of the publication of this press release, the official One UI 9 has been rolled out to Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8. The update is expected to gradually roll out to other Galaxy devices.

[2] My FanCam feature requires a Samsung Account login. Availability may vary by video. Not supported if there is no subject to track. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

[3] Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Available functions and features may vary by country, region, language, device model, and app. Some features may require a network connection. Customized briefing content provided is based only on the personal information to which the user has consented. Accuracy of generated results is not guaranteed.

[4] Available features in Warranty and care menu may differ by country/region. Warranty information is available for devices linked to the user’s Samsung Account. Ask Bixby features and supported content may vary by country or language. Estimated repair cost availability may vary by device model/region. Samsung Care+ availability, coverage, pricing, and eligibility requirements may vary by country/region and a deductible (service fee) may apply.

[5] Now Nudge feature requires a Samsung Account login. Available functions and features may vary by country, region, and language. Text message prompts are available with certain third-party messaging apps, including Samsung Messages, Google Messages, and Google Chat. Split view supported apps may vary. Photo sharing in Now Nudge works by analyzing available image content. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

[6] Interpreter requires Samsung Account login. Certain languages may require language pack download. Service availability may vary by language. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Availability and supported features may vary by country, region or carrier. Availability of supported languages may vary.

[7] privacy alerts is supported on Galaxy S26, S26 Ultra, S25, S25 FE, S24, S24 FE, S23, S23 FE, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, Flip8, Fold7, Flip7, Fol6, Flip6, Fold5, Flip5, Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, Tab S12 Plus, Tab S11 Ultra, Tab S11, Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S10 Plus, Tab S9 Ultra, Tab S9 Plus, and Tab S9. Privacy alerts, may not account for all relevant factors.

[8] Availability may vary by country, region, language, device model, or OS/One UI version.

[9] Scam Detection will be available in Japan, Canada, and India.

Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow returns for its fourth year in the Philippines, continuing its mission of empowering young Filipino students to leverage science and technology and contribute meaningful change. With the support of the Department of Education (DepEd), Samsung invites STEM students to be the voice of their own communities and propose innovative solutions to challenges they see and  experience around them.

Entering its 16th year, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a global competition that empowers young changemakers to tackle real-world challenges through STEM-based solutions. 

Open to students in Grades 8 to 10 from government-managed Science High Schools across the Philippines, Solve for Tomorrow gives students the opportunity to bring their ideas forward and turn them into meaningful solutions.

Samsung will recognize the winning teams, schools, and teacher advisers with almost PHP 2 million worth of prizes, including the Grand Prize valued at PHP 730,000, Second Prize at PHP 595,000, and Third Prize at PHP 465,000. The remaining teams shortlisted in the Top 10 will each receive PHP 20,000 in cash prizes. 

How to Join

Each team will consist of up to four students and one teacher-adviser, working together to develop a STEM-focused proposal that addresses a community, social change, or environmental sustainability challenge. Proposals may be submitted using a standardized format in Word, up to 3,000 words or seven pages, or PowerPoint, with a maximum of six slides. All entries must be submitted as PDF files not exceeding 40 MB.

Teams are encouraged to think creatively and explore how technology can help turn their ideas into practical solutions that can make a difference in their communities. Students may explore one of the following themes:

Under Environmental Sustainability through Technology, students are encouraged to use STEM to find creative ways to reuse, recycle, and transform materials into valuable products, helping reduce waste and promote more sustainable practices.

Meanwhile, under Social Change through Tech and Sport, students can harness the power of technology and sports to support education, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, creating new opportunities and a brighter future for the youth.

Lastly, under Solving Community Problems with AI, students can explore how AI can be used to develop innovative and practical solutions to challenges in their communities, while fostering critical thinking, social responsibility, and meaningful impact.

The Deadline for Entry submissions is on 02 November, 2026 at 11:59 PM via https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/.

Entries will be evaluated based on design innovation, relevance to the community, feasibility, STEM integration, sustainability and clarity of proposal.

The top 10 shortlisted entries will be announced on 16 November 2026, and will receive mentoring from a Samsung coach to refine their solutions. These teams will then present their final proposals to a distinguished board of judges on 07 December 2026.  The top three teams will be announced on 15 December 2026, and awarded by Samsung Philippines.

What’s at Stake

The Grand Prize winner will receive Php 400,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 200,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for the students and their teacher, Php 100,000.00 in cash for the team members, and Php 30,000.00 in cash for their teacher.

Meanwhile, the Second Prize winner will take home Php 300,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 200,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for the team and their teacher, Php 70,000.00 in cash for the team members, and Php 25,000.00 in cash for the teacher.

Finally, the Third Prize winner will receive Php 200,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 200,000.00 worth of Samsung devices for the team and their teacher, Php 50,000.00 in cash for the team, and Php 15,000.00 in cash for the teacher.

The remaining teams in the top 10 will receive Php 15,000.00 in cash for their team and Php 5,000.00 for their teacher.

Enabling Changemakers

Since its launch in the Philippines in 2023, Solve for Tomorrow has empowered participating schools, students, and teachers to bring innovative ideas to life and create meaningful impact in their communities. Among them is last year’s winning entry from Cavite Science Integrated School, which introduced a solar-powered, water-quality sensing buoy for monitoring mangrove ecosystem health. Other notable innovations include an egg-segregation solution and a sustainable low-cost pest control solution designed to help farmers reduce their reliance on chemicals. 

As AI advances, Solve for Tomorrow encourages young Filipinos to use technology thoughtfully and responsibly, turning new ideas into solutions for challenges in their communities. Through these themes, Samsung continues to inspire students to imagine, create, and lead the way toward a better tomorrow. 

To participate in this year’s Solve for Tomorrow, please visit  https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/. You can also follow Samsung Philippines on social media for the latest updates: Facebook – www.facebook.com/SamsungPH, X – www.x.com/SamsungPH, Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/samsungph/#.

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Samsung’s Train Run Recover with Galaxy highlights a more holistic approach to wellness, where movement, performance, and recovery come together.

For many, fitness can feel like a numbers game: how fast you run, how many reps you complete, or how much longer you can push yourself. But building a healthier, more sustainable routine goes beyond the workout. It is also about understanding how your body responds to movement, knowing when to challenge yourself, and making time to recover.

This was the thinking behind Samsung’s “Train Run Recover with Galaxy,” brought to life with the Galaxy Wellness Club. The wellness experience gave the #TeamGalaxy members the choice to move in different ways, from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and barre class to Run with Galaxy, with the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 equipping them to stay connected to meaningful health and activity insights.

TRAIN: Find the movement that works for you

From barre to everyday movement, Galaxy Watches help users monitor activity and build healthier habits.

There is no single way to stay active. Whether through high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that builds strength and endurance or lower-impact movement that develops balance, flexibility, and core strength, the key is finding what works for your body and goals.

The Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 help track every high-intensity workout with insights through Samsung Health.

The Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 support a more informed routine through Samsung Health, with insights such as Fitness Index, Heart Health Score, and Daily Cardio Load, helping users better understand their routines and make more informed decisions about how they train.

RUN: Make every stride count

#TeamGalaxy hit the road for Run with Galaxy, putting the performance and activity-tracking capabilities of the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 into action.

Running is not always about chasing the next personal best. It can simply be about getting outside, finding your rhythm, and making movement part of your day. With Run with Galaxy, users bring meaningful performance tracking into every run. 

Runners take on Paseo De Roxas cor. Makati Avenue with the latest Galaxy Watch lineup, staying connected with every stride.

For everyday wellness enthusiasts, the Galaxy Watch9 brings fitness and health tracking into daily routines, offering a more lightweight approach to staying connected to wellness beyond a single workout. The Galaxy Watch Ultra2, in particular, is built for those who want to take their training further, with features such as Trail Run and accurate GPS designed to support demanding outdoor activities. Its bright 5,000-nit display also helps keep key information visible even in challenging outdoor conditions.

Together, the latest Galaxy Watches reflect a simple idea: knowing more about how you move can help make every stride more intentional.

RECOVER: Because wellness does not stop when the workout is done

Recovery is just as important as movement. Refuelling, getting enough rest, and listening to your body can help make an active lifestyle more sustainable, reminding us that taking care of yourself is not always about doing more.

The Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 extend this focus beyond fitness tracking through Samsung Health. Features such as Vitals, Sleep Apnea insights, and Heart Health Score help users better understand different aspects of their health and wellness. Meanwhile, activity insights can also help put daily movement into perspective.

Through “Train Run Recover with Galaxy,” Samsung encourages people to approach wellness as a journey, one that looks different for everyone, but where every move can bring you closer to feeling your best.

With the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2, Galaxy becomes a companion throughout that journey, empowering users to stay attuned to their health and activity as they train, run, recover, and live well with Galaxy.

To learn more about Galaxy Watch Ultra2, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra2-titanium-silver-lte-sm-l715fzsaxtc/buy/

To learn more about Galaxy Watch9, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch9-40mm-cream-bluetooth-sm-l340nzeaasa/buy/ 

For more info, visit Samsung Philippines Newsroom or Samsung.com.

Do you remember the first time you ever saw a foldable mobile phone?

Modern foldables of today have evolved far beyond just a screen that folds. Samsung’s line-up now combines intelligent features with large displays for productivity, entertainment, and communication.

Since the introduction of the first Galaxy Fold in 2019, Samsung has been leveraging a deep understanding of consumer needs and strengthening expertise in this category. Valuable insights and experiences gained from seven generations of foldable innovation has resulted in the most complete line-up yet – the all-new Galaxy Z8 series.

This exciting line-up is resonating with consumers globally, including those in Southeast Asia and Oceania. In this region, sales of the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra have grown 40% compared to the Galaxy Z Fold7. The new series is also compelling more people in the region to embrace Samsung foldables, with switchers to the Galaxy Z Fold8 series from other brands increasing by more than 60% compared to those who made a switch to the previous Z Fold generation.

From the latest innovations unveiled in 2026, let’s trace Samsung’s evolution of foldable technology through the years – from its newest breakthroughs, all the way back to the debut of its very first foldable phone. Here’s how the journey unfolded.

2026: Three distinct foldables built for immersion, productivity and self-expression

The latest foldable line-up presents a broad portfolio designed to meet distinct user needs. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 bring together advancements across form factor, display engineering, camera features, and Galaxy AI, empowering users with more choice than ever to pick a foldable that best suits their needs.

2024 to 2025: Bigger possibilities for everyone with mobile AI
In 2024, the Galaxy Z series was first equipped with Galaxy AI, offering users AI-powered experiences tailored to each form factor.

2021-2023: Bringing foldables into everyone’s everyday life

As the category developed, Samsung continued to refine foldables to improve durability and increase versatility, enabling the form factor to better fit into everyday life.

2019-2020: Can you fold a mobile phone?

Long before foldables became familiar in everyday mobile experiences, Samsung took the bold step of reimagining what the category could look like. And after launching a foldable for the first time in 2019, Samsung continued to show that foldables were not just phones with flexible screens, but devices that could support entirely new ways to enjoy mobile experiences. With relentless innovation over the years, Samsung has driven the technology from concept to mainstream adoption.

More still to come for the Galaxy Z series

What began as a bold idea in 2019 has evolved into a comprehensive Galaxy Z portfolio shaped by relentless innovation and improvements. The journey is far from over. Across the Galaxy Z series, Samsung will continue to make the foldable experience even more intuitive, capable, and seamless for everyone.

MANILA, Philippines (September 7, 2026) – From sorting clothes by color and fabric type and figuring out the amount of detergent to use for each cycle, to drying each load, laundry days can take up a considerable amount of time and energy. Samsung is making the load feel lighter with its range of Bespoke AI washing machines and dryers.

Powered by Samsung’s Digital Inverter Technology, these laundry appliances are built to deliver efficient and reliable performance, while helping households use less energy and enjoy long-lasting durability.

Bigger Loads, Lighter Laundry Days

Washing bigger loads becomes more effortless with the Samsung Bespoke AI 19kg Ecobubble Top Load Washer. The machine is designed to take on massive loads of laundry and uses AI-powered technology to make washing more efficient, convenient, yet still gentle on any kind of fabric.

Instead of having to figure out every setting for every load, the washer does it all for you. Through AI Wash, the machine senses the weight and softness of the fabrics in each load and adjusts the process for a more thorough, yet gentle, wash cycle. The machine uses Ecobubble, turning detergent into bubbles that penetrate fabrics more quickly for more efficient washing.  On Super Speed, you can cut down your washing time and finish a wash cycle in just 31 minutes. The machine shoots powerful jets of water and accelerates the spin speed, ensuring your load gets powerfully cleaned while reducing water consumption. 

For families more mindful of energy consumption, AI Energy Mode helps you reduce the washer’s energy use by up to 20%. This means you can give your laundry the powerful wash it needs, without having to worry about added costs.

One Less Step with an All-in-One Partner

For households that want to simplify laundry even further, the Bespoke AI All-in-One Combo Washer and Dryer makes wash days more convenient by bringing washing and drying together in one appliance. With its 25kg washing and 15kg drying capacity, the machine can handle plenty of clothes in a single load, even larger items like beddings and linens. 

Caring for different kinds of laundry is easier to figure out with AI Wash & Dry as it optimizes your wash settings, water and detergent level, to suit your load. Whether it’s your family’s everyday clothes or a load of your household linens, the machine intelligently adapts, so you won’t have to figure out every setting yourself. To make the laundry process even more intuitive, the Flex Auto Dispense System automatically dispenses the appropriate amount of detergent and softener. Plus, the machine uses Samsung’s advanced Heatpump Drying technology to recycle and reheat hot air while removing moisture from your laundry, reducing drying time and energy use. 

The machine comes with a 7-inch AI Home LCD display, which serves as an intuitive control center during laundry days that suggests cycles based on your usage habits and seasonal needs. 

With SmartThings connectivity, the washing machine becomes a convenient hub for connected devices. Wash days are even easier to manage through the app, allowing you to monitor and manage laundry from your smartphone even while you’re busy with work, preparing dinner, or running errands. The app also lets you check the status and remaining time of a cycle and be notified once it’s finished, so you won’t have to constantly go and check the machine yourself. You can also set Delay Start on the app, to make sure your wash cycles fit your daily routines. 

Take the Weight Out of Wash Day with Samsung Bespoke AI

Make every part of your laundry day routine lighter with exclusive offers on Samsung Bespoke AI washers and dryers. Save up to PHP 20,000 when you shop the Samsung washing machine for your household on the Samsung Online Store. This exclusive offer is available until September 30, 2026 only.

To know more, visit samsung.com/ph  or any authorized dealer nationwide.

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As those technologies evolved, Samsung focused on another challenge: making a large-screen foldable easier to carry every day, without losing the experiences that make the form factor unique.

And through that pursuit, Galaxy Z Fold5 weighed 253 grams, and Galaxy Z Fold6 reduced its weight further to 239 grams.

With Galaxy Z Fold7 came an even more ambitious goal:

“Could a foldable be lighter than a bar-type flagship smartphone?”

At the time, Galaxy S25 Ultra — one of Samsung’s flagship bar-type smartphones — weighed 218 grams. So, the development team set an even lighter weight target for Galaxy Z Fold7: 215 grams.

Galaxy Z Fold7 reached that goal. And now, building on years of foldable innovation, Galaxy Z Fold8 combines a new form factor with advances in core technologies, materials and internal architecture to weigh just 201 grams — 52 grams lighter than Galaxy Z Fold5. At 201 grams, Galaxy Z Fold8 is the world’s lightest fold.[1]

Galaxy Z Fold’s weight and thickness evolution by generation, from 276 grams and 17.1 millimeters with the first Galaxy Fold to Galaxy Z Fold8 at 201 grams and 9.7 millimeters, the world’s lightest foldable, alongside Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra at 8.9 millimeters thick.

But consumers expected more than just a lighter foldable.

A 2024 YouGov survey[2] found that a bulky or heavy design remained a concern among consumers not planning to purchase foldables, while battery life, durability and display quality ranked as top priorities for those considering them.

This insight shaped a core engineering goal for Samsung: make foldables thinner and lighter, while maintaining the core experiences users value most.

Battery life, camera performance, thermal management and durability still had to advance.

That could not be achieved by changing a single component. Samsung engineers had to reimagine the entire device — advancing fundamental foldable technologies, introducing new materials and revisiting hundreds of components and auxiliary parts to the fraction-of-a-gram level.

From 253 grams to 201 grams. Three engineering innovations enabled that transformation.

▲ From Galaxy Z Fold5 to Galaxy Z Fold8, Samsung reduced 52 grams to deliver the world’s lightest foldable.

The Thinner and Lighter a Foldable Gets, the More Precise the Engineering Must Become

Making a foldable thinner and lighter brings a new set of engineering challenges.

The layers inside the display need to become thinner while still meeting Samsung’s durability and reliability requirements. The metal plate supporting the display needs to stay extremely flat even as it becomes thinner. And the hinge has to manage the forces created every time the device folds and unfolds, while being designed around the size and structure of each product.

Across generations, Samsung has continued to advance the display layers, ultra-thin metal precision machining and hinge technologies central to its foldable devices.

One example is Flex Titanium.

The displays in Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra use Flex Titanium technology featuring a Titanium Alloy Film designed for the foldable display structure.

The film is just tens of micrometers thick — roughly one-third the width of a human hair. Its material and structure work together to maintain performance at this extreme thickness.

The metal plate that supports the display presents a different challenge.

Some metal plates are machined to approximately 0.2 millimeters thick, with the thinnest sections reaching 0.15 millimeters. At that level, simply making the metal thinner is not enough. Thin metal can bend or warp more easily during machining, and even a small change in shape can affect assembly precision or the surface quality of the display.

What matters is the ability to machine ultra-thin metal at around 0.2 millimeters while consistently achieving the required shape and flatness.

Samsung refined the machining sequence, tooling, cooling conditions and process parameters, breaking the process into multiple stages to maintain precision.

The hinge requires the same level of care.

Beyond simply opening and closing the phone, it must distribute the forces created by repeated folding and unfolding across the device while maintaining structural stability.

And these requirements vary by product size and architecture.

Samsung engineers the hinge for each form factor, carefully balancing load distribution, strength, durability, internal space and weight rather than just scaling it down from one generation to the next.

Creating a thinner and lighter foldable requires more than downsizing individual parts.

It comes from greater precision in how materials are machined, how forces are managed and how structures are designed within a limited space.

Lighter, Built for Strength — Starting With the Materials

The second area is materials innovation.

Different parts of a foldable have very different jobs. Some demand high rigidity. Some must withstand repeated movement. Others need to spread heat efficiently.

Samsung selects and develops materials around those specific needs, delivering the performance each requires while optimizing weight and space.

In Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Flex Titanium incorporates a Titanium Alloy Film to support the foldable display structure.

For the exterior, Samsung uses Advanced Armor Aluminum, helping provide the strength and durability needed in a thin and lightweight frame.

Materials also play an important role in thermal management.

As a device gets thinner, there is less room to manage the heat generated inside. Samsung uses graphite with improved thermal performance, while tailoring the overall thermal structure to the size and performance requirements of each product.

In Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, which has similar overall dimensions to Galaxy Z Fold7, the volume of the graphite heat-dissipation layer was increased by approximately 7% to help support its enhanced performance.

Samsung also applies Clad Metal inside the rear of the device. By combining the characteristics of different metals, the material helps reduce weight while providing the thermal performance required within a thin structure.

Materials innovation is therefore not just about choosing lighter options, but about using the right material in the right place to deliver the performance each part needs with less weight and space.

Looking Again at the Entire Device — Down to 0.001 Grams

Only so much can be achieved through core technologies and new materials alone.

In a foldable already packed with highly integrated components, finding the next few grams means looking again at almost everything inside the device.

Samsung engineers reviewed approximately 270 components and more than 180 types of auxiliary parts.

This spanned everything from the display, hinge and cameras to circuit boards, antennas, brackets, tapes and fasteners.

The precision extended to reductions of 0.1 grams and 0.1 millimeters, and in some auxiliary parts, as little as 0.001 grams.

The printed circuit board, or PCB, was redesigned to remove unnecessary circuits, improve component layout and minimize its footprint.

The MFC (Magnetic Flux Channel) antenna was also reimagined to reduce unnecessary overlap and interference with surrounding components, allowing the limited internal space to be used more efficiently.

Every auxiliary part, no matter how small, was examined.

Of the more than 180 types previously used, approximately 15 were eliminated.

Engineers then reviewed the remaining 170 types, trimming oversized areas, refining shapes and optimizing dimensions. Multiple parts were consolidated into single structures where possible.

In some cases, the savings were measured in increments as small as 0.001 grams.

Each change seems minor in isolation, but repeated across the device, fractions of a gram become tenths of a gram, then whole grams.

The weight savings on a finished device result from hundreds of small engineering decisions.

Finding 6 Grams Again to Make Room for More

The goal was to reinvest the weight and space recovered through engineering into the capabilities people actually experience — including the battery, cameras and thermal system.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra provides a separate example of how this approach can be applied.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold7 have similar overall dimensions and both weigh 215 grams. But within that same weight, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra increases battery capacity from 4,400 mAh to 5,000 mAh.

That larger battery brought its own challenge: the battery itself added approximately 6 grams.

So the development team faced a new question:

“Where could we find those 6 grams again?”

There was no single component that could provide the answer.

Instead, engineers applied the same systematic approach across the entire device — materials and structures, circuit layouts and component placement, down to the smallest auxiliary parts — identifying weight savings across all components.

This strategy extended to internal space optimization.

By reducing unnecessary overlap between the display, circuits, antennas and surrounding components, and by improving packaging efficiency, Samsung created room for a larger battery and enhanced thermal and camera systems.

As a result, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra accommodates a 5,000 mAh battery while increasing the volume of its graphite heat-dissipation layer by approximately 7% compared with the similarly sized Galaxy Z Fold7.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra features a 200 MP main camera and introduces the first 50 MP Ultra-Wide camera on a Galaxy Z Fold device.

Samsung’s approach to a thinner and lighter foldable is therefore not about removing capabilities.

It is about redirecting weight and space savings toward the flagship experiences users value most.

From 253 Grams to 201 Grams: Redefining the Weight Standard for Foldables

The journey began with the first Galaxy Fold at 276 grams in 2019. Across eight generations, Samsung has continued to advance the technologies, materials and internal architecture behind the foldable experience.

In recent generations, that progress accelerated — from 253 grams with Galaxy Z Fold5 to 201 grams with Galaxy Z Fold8.

But the story isn’t just about reducing weight.

Samsung’s goal has been to make a large-screen foldable easier to carry without giving up the qualities users expect from a flagship smartphone.

The weight and space recovered through advances in core technologies, materials and component design were put back into the battery, cameras, thermal system and other flagship experiences users value most.

From 253 grams to 201 grams.

No single material or component made that transformation possible.

Eight generations of engineering enabled this, advancing core technologies, introducing new materials and rethinking the entire device to make Galaxy Z Fold easier to carry without compromising the flagship experience.

Galaxy Z Fold Series: A Thinner, Lighter Journey in Numbers

– 52 g
Galaxy Z Fold8 is 52 grams lighter than Galaxy Z Fold5.

1/3, 0.2 mm
The Titanium Alloy Film used in Flex Titanium is approximately one-third the width of a human hair, while ultra-thin metal structures supporting the display are precision-machined to around 0.2 millimeters.

~270 / 180+ / 0.001 g
Samsung re-examined approximately 270 components and more than 180 types of auxiliary parts, optimizing some down to 0.001 grams.

5,000 mAh / +~7% / 200 MP + 50 MP
Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra features a 5,000 mAh battery, approximately 7% more graphite heat-dissipation volume and a 200 MP main camera with a 50 MP Ultra-Wide camera.

[1] Based on internal research as of July 22, 2026, comparing commercially available book-style foldable smartphones globally. Exact weight may vary by model, configuration and manufacturing process. Weight measured excluding protective cases or accessories.

[2] Source: YouGov plc, 2024, © All rights reserved

Samsung’s newest watches are less about simply monitoring your health and more about steering it towards your wellness goals — beyond providing data for users to react to, the line-up offers more proactive guidance so you can make the right moves at the right time. Tech experts across Southeast Asia and Oceania have been testing both the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 since the launch so read on for their verdicts on how the new line-up is performing.

Peak Performance: What Stands Out About the Galaxy Watch Ultra2?

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is Samsung’s most rugged smartwatch, built for high-performance outdoor activities. Fino Yurio Kristo, Detik (Indonesia) wrote: “Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 with a premium, rugged titanium design built to withstand various conditions. Additionally, the device offers extended battery life, more accurate GPS, and enhanced performance, making it suitable for strenuous activities and long-distance adventures.”

Highlighting the device’s new diving capability, Justin Choo, Potions (Singapore) noted: “The original Galaxy Watch Ultra was built to survive rough conditions, but Samsung stopped short of recommending it for diving. The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 changes all that.” Echoing positive sentiments about the new underwater feature, Ken Chu, Ke En (Malaysia) added: “The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is a more practical companion for those who enjoy exploring underwater environments.”

Beyond the new advanced features, comfort of the Watch Ultra series has also been improved, with Fuzz.my (Malaysia) sharing on TikTok: “Now it’s even slimmer and & more comfortable to wear”. And after experiencing the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 for himself, Valens Quinn, GadgetGuy (Australia) highlights its “Faster chip, brighter screen, and bigger battery, all without a price rise”.

Everyday Wellness: How does the Galaxy Watch9 Perform as a Daily Health Companion

Galaxy Watch9 is built for all-day wear and designed to be an everyday health companion. Fino Yurio Kristo from Detik (Indonesia) emphasizes key enhancements: “The Galaxy Watch9 brings significant improvements to the daily health monitoring experience. Samsung has introduced a slimmer design that is comfortable for all-day wear, without compromising health monitoring capabilities.”

Kevin Low from Geek Culture (Singapore) noted that the watch offers new intelligent solutions to better support health and wellness, sharing that: “The Galaxy Watch9 features guidance tools that detect early warning signs in five key areas.”, with Ngo Tran Thinh, HTV (Vietnam) sharing the view that “what stands out is how AI interprets health signals to provide guidance that feels increasingly personalized.”

Features like Vitals[1] analyzes heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen saturation while users sleep, to establish a personalized health baseline and send alerts when significant deviations are detected. Izami Gadget (Malaysia) said “The new preventive health features make the Galaxy Watch9 feel more like a daily health companion.”

The Takeaway: One Wrist, Two Ways to Stay Ahead of Your Health

Droidsans (Thailand) sums up Samsung’s latest wearables, saying, “The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch 9 are smartwatches that are perfect for adventurers and health enthusiasts. Powered by Snapdragon chipsets, they offer AI processing for comprehensive health and fitness guidance.”

The new health features available on the Galaxy Watch line-up are designed to support preventive health management. The Galaxy Watch transforms complex biological data into simple personalized insights to help users better understand their bodies and take meaningful action across sleep, activity, cardiovascular health, and recovery. With the Galaxy Watch, users can access comprehensive health insights, enabling them to adopt a more proactive approach to wellness.

[1] Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. For personal reference only — please consult a medical professional for advice. Requires a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone, Samsung Health app v7.0 and Samsung account. Requires initial setup wearing the watch for 24 hours (including awake and asleep).

[2] Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and a deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefits, registration may be required.

[3] If you buy a new Galaxy foldable on Samsung.com and enroll in a monthly Samsung Care+ plan, your first three months of coverage are free.

[4] Free 60-day Strava subscription trial promotion is available worldwide, excluding Belarus, China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria, sanctioned parts of Ukraine and South Korea.

[5] Free 2-month iFIT subscription trial promotion is available only in the following 23 markets: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Seven generations in, Samsung’s foldables have moved beyond novelty to become daily mobile companions for many. Tech experts in Southeast Asia and Oceania have experienced this progress first-hand with the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 since they launched at Galaxy Unpacked 2026: Here’s what they find most impressive:

Underpinning the latest generation of foldables is advanced hardware innovation, which Stephen Fenech, Tech Guide (Australia) notes: “With eight generations of foldable experience, research and development at its back, Samsung has established itself as the pioneering company of this latest and growing smartphone category.”

Ultra Power: What Makes the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra Outstanding?

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra brings Galaxy’s renowned Ultra standard to foldables, providing users with a larger workspace for maximum productivity and content creation. On design, Dedy Irvan, Jagat Review (Indonesia) shares: “The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra delivers an experience that feels closer than ever to Samsung’s Ultra lineup. Beyond the “Ultra” branding, its refined dual rail hinge offers a firmer, more premium feel — opening effortlessly, providing reassuring resistance midway, and locking smoothly into place when fully unfolded.”

Testing the foldable’s power to handle everyday tasks, Huy Duc, VnExpress (Vietnam) highlights: “Beyond its nearly invisible crease, it delivers one of its biggest upgrades yet: an increased 5,000mAh battery[1] packed into a slimmer chassis, complemented by faster 45W charging.”

For content creation, Du Lam, Vietnamnet (Vietnam) added: “It combines a 200MP camera[2] with 8K video recording and Cine LUT, delivering a professional-grade content creation experience in a foldable device.”

Everyday Fit: How Does the Galaxy Z Fold8 Add Value to Daily Life?

The Galaxy Z Fold8 is Samsung’s lightest Galaxy Z Fold to date, and power users point to its shape as the standout. Robb Report (Malaysia) called it “one of the most uniquely shaped phones currently on the market.”

Meanwhile, Rodneil Quiteles, GadgetMatch (Philippines) appreciated its everyday usability: “The Galaxy Z Fold8 isn’t trying to be a regular smartphone that unfolds into a tablet. It feels like it’s designed around how many of us already use our devices today.”  Tump Yung (Thailand) expressed similar sentiments, saying “The Galaxy Z Fold8 strikes the perfect balance between productivity and everyday enjoyment. It honestly feels like it was made for someone like me.”

Enjoying the viewing experiences on its screen, Si Jia, Geek Culture (Singapore) wrote: “Topped off with a fun-sized build, the Galaxy Z Fold8’s 4:3 aspect ratio is easily the standout element, delivering full-screen immersion.”

Fun with the Flip: How the Galaxy Z Flip8 Supports New Ways of Self-Expression

The Galaxy Z Flip8 provides the sleekest experiences for users who want a phone as dynamic as they are. Amy Maizuraa from Amanz (Malaysia) wrote: “The Galaxy Z Flip8 is noticeably thinner and lighter than the Flip7. Its reduced weight and slimmer profile make it more comfortable to hold and practical for a modern lifestyle.”

The Verdict: One Line of Foldables, Three Distinct Fits

Wondering which foldable best suits your needs? Dave McLeod, Tarmac Life (New Zealand) notes that there’s a device for everyone: “Whether it’s the multitasking prowess of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, the content-friendly ratio of the Galaxy Z Fold8, the pocketable utility of the Galaxy Z Flip 8” there is a foldable that “can integrate itself deeper into (your) daily lives.”

[1] Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 4,854mAh for Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.

[2] Results may vary depending on light condition and/or shooting conditions including multiple subjects, being out of focus or moving subjects.

[3] Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and a deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefits, registration may be required.

[4] If you buy a new Galaxy foldable on Samsung.com and enroll in a monthly Samsung Care+ plan, your first three months of coverage are free.

Samsung Electronics today announced that it hosted the #PlayGalaxy Cup World Final from Aug. 27-28, and that the final was held at the company’s booth as part of its larger exhibition at Gamescom 2026, held at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany, from Aug. 26-30.

The #PlayGalaxy Cup is a global mobile gaming tournament designed to showcase the powerful gaming performance of Galaxy smartphones. This year marked the first time the competition was held as a full-season league, with regional qualifiers leading up to the World Final.

“This year was the first time the #PlayGalaxy Cup was held as a full season tournament, and we’ve witnessed thrilling competition from start to finish,” said David Moon, Head of Influencer Marketing, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung is thrilled to have brought gamers from all over the world together to experience the powerful performance of Galaxy S26 Ultra.”

The regional qualifiers were held across five regions — North America, Southwest Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Europe — with 32 teams from 17 countries competing for a place in the final stage. The top two teams from each region advanced, bringing a total of 10 teams from nine countries to the World Final at Gamescom.

After proving their skills through the regional qualifiers, the finalists then competed over two days for the championship.

▲ Players compete at the #PlayGalaxy Cup World Final during Gamescom 2026.

All players at the World Final competed on Galaxy S26 Ultra, whose powerful processing performance and optimized thermal management enabled high-intensity matches through stable, immersive gameplay.

▲ Streamer Ludwig hosts the #PlayGalaxy Cup World Final at Samsung’s Gamescom 2026 booth.

 

The final was won by Malaysian team and was livestreamed worldwide on YouTube through streamer Ludwig’s channel, drawing a total of 12.1M views.

 

▲ The Malaysian team celebrates its victory at the #PlayGalaxy Cup World Final. (From left) San Gaming, VRT1CAA, ADIKBOY, and ACAD

 

In addition to the #PlayGalaxy Cup World Final, Samsung operated a dedicated Galaxy experience zone at the venue, where visitors could get hands-on experience with Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra.

 

Through partnerships with HoYoverse, TiMi Studio, and Gameloft, visitors to Samsung’s booth were also able to experience a variety of popular game titles across Galaxy devices.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to experience Galaxy S, THIS IS IT. The newly launched Galaxy S26 FE offers the premium flagship experience you’ve been holding out for now more accessible than ever, with exclusive deals available for those ready to make the switch and finally upgrade to the mobile experience you deserve.

Avail the introductory discount until November 30 and get ₱7,000 off for 512GB, ₱5,000 off for 256GB, and ₱4,000 off for 128GB. You can also avail up to 15% off for up to 36 months via select bank partners, and up to ₱6,000 guaranteed savings when you trade-in your old devices.  

No credit card? No problem. GalaxyS26 FE is available via Home Credit with up to P14,000 off until October 31.

With all the best things from the Galaxy S26 series, the Galaxy S26 FE is the gateway to the premium Galaxy experience — made for the way you live and create, so you can get more out of every day.

Welcome to Galaxy S

What sets the Galaxy S experience apart is its premium and intelligent camera capabilities that make capturing special moments easier in high quality, an experience that the Galaxy S26 FE delivers from hardware to features, powered by Galaxy AI.

The Galaxy S26 FE features an enhanced triple rear camera with advanced image processing, including a 50MP Wide Camera and 8MP Telephoto Camera that supports 3x Optical Zoom. It also has enhanced Nightography that captures bright, clear shots in low light while preserving every detail, ensuring your best moments never get lost in the dark.

First introduced in the latest Galaxy Z series, it finally brings My FanCam to Galaxy S — a feature that intelligently tracks a selected person, reframing video as the scene moves, for less need for manual editing. There’s also Super Steady with Horizontal Lock, which made waves in the market when it was launched with the Galaxy S26 series, as it lets you capture level, smooth footage while filming fast-moving activities like sports, travel, and everyday adventures.

Meanwhile, the enhanced Photo Assist can elevate any photo, even after the moment has passed — adding, changing, or restoring elements using natural language prompts, with an edit history you can review step by step and revise or undo along the way.

Your Tool to Life-Maxxing

The Galaxy S26 FE is built to keep up with you, no matter how packed your day gets, with a long-lasting 4,900mAh battery that allows you to reach up to 69% charge in around 30 minutes with the 45W adapter.

Powered by the latest One UI 9, the enhanced Now Brief features customizable briefing cards like weather and wellness insights that you can create using a single prompt while Now Nudge has expanded to select third-party apps and notifications providing users with relevant insights all throughout the day.

And when it’s time to upgrade, Smart Switch makes the transition seamless, transferring your data, photos, apps, and settings from your old device in just a few taps — so you can pick up right where you left off and continue your life-maxxing, with no stress, no lost files, and no starting from scratch.

Galaxy S26 FE is now available in Samsung Experience Stores nationwide, and in Samsung.com/ph by September 11 in three colors: Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio.

For more information on Galaxy S26 FE, please visit  https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s/galaxy-s26-fe-pistachio-128gb-sm-s741blgbphl/ 

Terms and conditions apply.

*Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-265742 Series of 2026

*Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-265761 Series of 2026