Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 is reportedly set to introduce notable differences between its standard model and an Ultra variant, with the Ultra version potentially regaining S Pen support. Leaks suggest the Fold 8 Ultra will feature a high-density display around 500 ppi, a sizable 5,000 mAh battery, wired charging up to 45W, and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera. Details on the regular Fold 8 remain scarce.
The rumored return of the S Pen aligns with Samsung’s design choices. The previous Galaxy Z Fold 7 dropped stylus support by removing the digitizer layer-a crucial touchscreen component that enables pen input-in favor of a slimmer profile. Reintroducing this technology will likely add several millimeters to the device’s thickness. While that trade-off might be acceptable for the premium Ultra model, the standard Fold 8 could struggle to justify the added bulk.
Insiders also hint that Samsung will sharpen the lineup differentiation even further with this generation. The familiar ”Ultra” branding is expected to remain with the longer-form Fold 8 model, while a wider, possibly less premium Fold 8 will drop the suffix. If this naming scheme holds, the S Pen will act as another clear divider between the two versions-both in price and target audience.
Samsung’s segmentation strategy ties into broader market trends. According to TrendForce data, global foldable smartphone shipments rose only modestly in 2024, and the category remains a niche compared to traditional flagship phones. Manufacturers are increasingly catering to two types of buyers: those seeking more affordable options and the ”Ultra” customers willing to pay for premium features. Across mainstream smartphones, Ultra models typically boast better cameras, bigger batteries, and exclusive functions-trends now likely extending to foldable devices.
However, it’s too early to take these reports as fact. Notably, well-known leaker Ice Universe has claimed the Fold 8 won’t see a return of the S Pen at all. Until Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, slated for July 22 in London, these details remain speculative. That event will reveal whether Samsung intends to position the Fold once again as a stylus-equipped productivity device or stick to marketing it primarily as a sleek foldable flagship.