According to SamMobile, citing data from GalaxyClub, Samsung’s next premium foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, is tipped for a July 2026 unveiling at the earliest. The phone is expected to retain the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s 200MP primary camera and 10MP selfie shooter, with no return for the under-display camera. The key upgrades are rumored to be a new 50MP ultrawide sensor, a massive jump from the Fold 7’s 12MP, and a higher-resolution 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. This telephoto sensor might be the same one destined for the future Galaxy S26 Ultra. The report also speculates these upgrades could appear on a potential sequel to the Galaxy Z TriFold, which currently shares the Fold 7’s camera system.
The slow-motion camera race
Here’s the thing: Samsung‘s foldables have always played second fiddle to the Galaxy S Ultra series when it comes to cameras. It’s been the most consistent complaint. The Fold 7 finally started to close that gap, and these rumors for the Fold 8 suggest Samsung isn’t taking its foot off the gas. A 50MP ultrawide isn’t just a spec bump—it’s a complete sensor overhaul that should drastically improve detail and low-light performance for those wider shots. And borrowing the S-series’ future telephoto? That’s a clear signal they want the Fold to be a true no-compromise flagship, not just a phone that folds.
The TriFold wildcard
Now, the more interesting angle is the Galaxy Z TriFold sequel. The original is selling out, which basically guarantees a follow-up. If the Fold 8 and a potential TriFold 2 launch around the same time in 2026, it makes perfect sense for them to share this new camera array. Why develop two different high-end camera systems for two niche, ultra-premium products? You wouldn’t. So this rumor gives us our first real clue about what a TriFold 2 might offer beyond just more folding screens. It needs its own “wow” factor beyond the form factor, and a top-tier camera system would certainly be one.
The long road ahead
But let’s be real. A July 2026 launch is a lifetime away in tech years. Remember, these plans are based on early supply chain data, and a lot can change. Sensors get swapped, specs get adjusted, whole features get axed. The only certainty is that Samsung knows camera prowess is the final frontier for foldable legitimacy. They’re chasing that feeling where you don’t have to explain that “the camera is good… for a foldable.” You just say it’s good, period. If these upgrades land, the Fold 8 might finally get there.
What to do now
So, should you wait? If you’re craving a foldable now, absolutely not. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a fantastic device and can be found for great prices, especially post-holiday. The TriFold is barely available and is more of a proof-of-concept luxury item. The Fold 8 rumors are fun to dissect, but they’re a glimpse of a future that’s over 18 months out. By then, we’ll be talking about the Fold 9. That’s just how it goes.
