Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra Review: Playing Second Fiddle

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, with its rebranded design and notable upgrades, represents a significant step forward from its predecessor, the Z Fold 7. This book-style foldable device boasts stunning displays, superb performance, killer multitasking capabilities, strong cameras, and decent battery life. However, it comes with a price tag starting at $2,099.99, making it one of the most expensive phones on the market.

Expert’s Rating:
The device scores 3.5 out of 5 stars, offering a premium experience but facing stiff competition from other smartphones in the market. Pros of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra include its gorgeous displays, superb performance, multitasking capabilities, strong cameras, and decent battery life. On the flip side, some cons include poor content consumption, lack of a 5x telephoto camera, absence of built-in Qi2, and a relatively high price point.

Our Verdict:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra represents a significant advancement in foldable technology, offering a refined and premium experience. However, for most users, the wider Z Fold 8 might be a better choice due to its lower price point. The Z Fold 8 Ultra is a top-of-the-line foldable device that excels in various aspects but faces tough competition from other devices on the market.

Design & Build:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra features a new titanium hinge, IP48 water and dust resistance, and a stunning ‘Violet Shadow’ colorway. The device is well-built, with a lightweight chassis and a durable titanium hinge that reduces the impact of the crease. The device offers three 6.5-inch phone displays within a compact chassis, providing a unique and innovative form factor.

The Z Fold 8 Ultra is available in various color options, including ‘Violet Shadow’, ‘Cream’, ‘Graphite’, and ‘Green Shadow’. The device is easy to open one-handed, thanks to its improved design and springier flex mechanism. The device features Corning’s Gorilla Glass for added durability and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for secure unlocking.

Screens & Speakers:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra features two high-quality displays, a 6.5-inch cover screen, and an 8-inch internal display. Both displays are vibrant AMOLED panels with fluid refresh rates that provide a smooth navigation experience. The device benefits from a new anti-reflective coating, making it easier to view in various lighting conditions.

The device also features stereo speakers that deliver punchy, Dolby Atmos-tuned audio suitable for gaming and multimedia consumption. While the audio quality is not as robust as some other devices, it offers a satisfactory listening experience. The Z Fold 8 Ultra’s displays are ideal for gaming, offering a smooth and immersive gaming experience across demanding titles.

Specs & Performance:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, providing superb performance in various scenarios. The device offers seamless multitasking capabilities, allowing users to run multiple apps side-by-side and excel in gaming performance. The device’s 8-inch display and top-class performance make it a potent gaming machine suitable for demanding titles.

The device’s camera setup includes a 200Mp main lens, a 10Mp telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 50Mp ultrawide lens. The main lens delivers clear and detailed images with excellent dynamic range and color accuracy. The telephoto lens offers impressive zoom capabilities, while the ultrawide lens captures high-quality images with vibrant colors and detail.

Battery Life & Charging:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers strong all-day battery life, thanks to its silicon-carbon battery and software optimization. The device’s battery life has been significantly improved compared to its predecessor, providing users with a comfortable usage experience throughout the day. The device supports 45W wired charging, but it falls short of the 60W charging capabilities of other premium devices.

The device does not feature built-in Qi2 magnets, requiring users to use a case for faster wireless charging and magnetic accessory compatibility. While the device’s battery life is commendable, the charging speed could be improved to match the standards set by other flagship devices.

Software & AI:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra runs Samsung’s One UI 9 skin based on Android 17. The software offers a range of multitasking features, including split-screen mode and a desktop-style taskbar for enhanced productivity. The device’s large 8-inch display is well-suited for multitasking and offers a seamless user experience for various tasks.

Samsung’s AI features, such as Gemini and Circle to Search, provide added functionality and convenience for users. The device comes pre-installed with Samsung’s suite of Galaxy AI features and a range of additional apps that can be uninstalled or disabled as needed. The device is supported with seven years of OS and security updates, ensuring long-term usability and security.

Price & Availability:
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is priced starting at $2,099.99, making it one of the most expensive phones on the market. The device is available for purchase through the Samsung website and various retailers and networks in the UK and US. The device offers premium features and performance but comes at a high price point compared to other smartphones.

Should You Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra?
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers a premium and innovative foldable experience, with top-notch hardware and software features. However, the high price point and niche form factor may not appeal to all users. While the device excels in productivity tasks and multitasking, it may not be the ideal choice for everyday users looking for a traditional smartphone experience. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra depends on individual preferences and needs.