Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 delivered one of the company’s biggest mobile launches in years, with three new foldable phones, two Galaxy Watches and Samsung’s first intelligent eyewear designs.

Meanwhile, Samsung hosted the event in London on 22 July 2026. The main announcements included the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch9, Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Android XR-based intelligent glasses developed with Google.

Samsung also placed Galaxy AI at the centre of the event. Rather than limiting AI to photo editing or text generation, the company introduced more proactive features designed to understand context, suggest actions and complete tasks across supported apps.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Highlights

Samsung divided its new foldable range into three distinct models for the first time. The standard Fold8 targets entertainment and everyday use, while the Fold8 Ultra focuses on productivity, cameras and premium hardware. Meanwhile, the Flip8 remains the smaller and more fashion-focused option.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Introduces Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

The biggest announcement at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 was the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra.

Samsung has effectively turned its traditional premium Fold line into an Ultra model. The device features a 6.5-inch cover screen and an 8-inch main display, giving users a large workspace for multitasking, editing and productivity.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra weighs 215g and measures just 4.1mm when unfolded. It also includes a 5,000mAh battery and supports 45W wired charging through Samsung’s new dual-path charging architecture.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra Key Specifications

The 200MP main camera gives the Fold8 Ultra a major advantage over Samsung’s standard Fold8. Samsung has also added a telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, which should make the Ultra model more attractive to users who want a foldable without sacrificing flagship camera hardware.

Samsung also expanded the internal cooling system with a larger graphite structure. This should help the device control temperatures during gaming, AI processing and intensive multitasking.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Brings the New Galaxy Z Fold8

The regular Galaxy Z Fold8 is not simply a cheaper version of the Fold8 Ultra.

Samsung has redesigned it around content consumption. The device uses a 5.5-inch cover screen with a 10:16 aspect ratio and a wider 7.6-inch main display with a 4:3 ratio.

This unusual shape aims to improve scrolling, video playback, reading and social media use. When closed, the phone feels more compact. When opened, the wider screen provides more space for films, digital magazines and ebooks.

At 201g, the Fold8 is Samsung’s lightest Fold model so far. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy and includes a 4,800mAh battery.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Key Specifications

The Fold8 also includes two 50MP rear cameras. However, it does not have the dedicated telephoto camera found on the Fold8 Ultra.

Samsung says the phone supports up to 26 hours of video playback. It also offers up to 1TB of storage, while the 1TB version includes 16GB of RAM.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra vs Galaxy Z Fold8

The Fold8 Ultra is the natural choice for users who want the most powerful foldable Samsung offers. In contrast, the Fold8 is lighter and uses a shape designed around media and social content.

However, neither device supports the S Pen, according to Samsung’s official Fold8 information.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Launches the Galaxy Z Flip8

Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Z Flip8, its thinnest and lightest Flip phone yet.

The device weighs 180g and measures 6.1mm when unfolded. It features a 6.9-inch main display and a 4.1-inch FlexWindow.

Samsung has turned the cover screen into a more useful AI interface. Users can see personalised information through Now Brief, access supported apps and use Gemini Intelligence without fully opening the phone.

Galaxy Z Flip8 Key Specifications

The Galaxy Z Flip8 continues to use a 50MP main camera. Samsung has also improved FlexCam with new stabilisation, hands-free recording and cover-screen selfie tools.

The new Horizontal Lock option in Super Steady mode should help users keep videos level while walking or filming action. Meanwhile, the Zoom Rocker gives users more control when recording in a camcorder-style grip.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Expands Galaxy AI

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 focused heavily on what Samsung calls agentic AI.

The goal is to help the phone take useful actions rather than simply produce an answer. Several new Galaxy AI tools work across conversations, apps, photos and daily routines.

Now Brief

Now Brief displays personalised information based on the user’s schedule, habits and interests.

It can show:

• Daily plans
• Health summaries
• Upcoming events
• Travel information
• Security warnings
• Suggested actions

On the Flip8, users can access these updates directly from the FlexWindow.

Now Nudge

Now Nudge looks for useful next steps based on what appears on the screen.

For example, when users discuss a meeting in a conversation, the phone may suggest opening the calendar. If someone shares a restaurant, the phone may offer to find its location or save it.

Fold8 users can open these suggestions in split-screen mode without leaving the original conversation.

Gemini Intelligence

Gemini Intelligence can complete connected actions across more than 40 supported apps and services.

Samsung says users can ask Gemini to find tickets, locate a restaurant, make a reservation or work with content shown on the screen.

The devices also include Gemini Notebook, which can collect notes, images, recordings and files inside a persistent workspace.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Introduces One UI 9

All three new foldables run Android 17 with One UI 9.

Samsung has optimised One UI 9 for different display shapes. On the Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra, users can open apps in two-way and three-way split-screen layouts.

The larger displays also support side-by-side comparison when editing photos. Users can view the original image beside the AI-edited version without switching screens.

Photo Assist now accepts written prompts. Therefore, users can describe the change they want instead of manually selecting every object or adjustment.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Unveils Galaxy Watch Ultra2

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is Samsung’s most advanced wearable from the event.

It comes in a single 47mm size and features a 1.52-inch Super AMOLED display capable of reaching 5,000 nits.

Samsung has also included an 800mAh battery, which is the largest battery in the new Galaxy Watch range. The watch runs Wear OS 7 with One UI 9 Watch and uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite platform.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 Key Specifications

Samsung has designed the Ultra2 for demanding outdoor activities. The watch supports trail running, real-time hydration guidance and professional diving.

Its EN13319 certification allows it to track depth, dive time and water temperature. Samsung also plans to release a dedicated diving app developed with Mares later in 2026.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Introduces Galaxy Watch9

The Galaxy Watch9 is the more traditional smartwatch in Samsung’s new range.

Samsung offers it in 40mm and 44mm sizes. Both versions include sapphire crystal displays, the same Snapdragon Wear platform and Samsung’s BioActive sensor.

The 40mm model includes a 390mAh battery, while the 44mm version uses a 445mAh battery. Both watches include 32GB of storage and run Wear OS 7.

Galaxy Watch9 Key Specifications

Samsung has focused heavily on sleep, cardiovascular health, exercise and recovery.

The watch continuously collects biometric information and turns it into personalised recommendations. However, the availability of individual health functions may differ by country because some features require regulatory approval.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Reveals Android XR Smart Glasses

At the same time, One of the most unexpected Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 announcements was Samsung’s new intelligent eyewear.

Samsung developed the glasses with Google, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. They run on the Android XR platform and use Gemini for contextual, hands-free assistance.

The glasses include:

• A built-in camera
• Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1
• Touch and voice controls
• Live translation
• Navigation assistance
• Message summaries
• Visual sharing
• First-person recording
• Up to nine hours of battery life
• A charging case with up to seven additional charges

The camera lets Gemini understand what the user is viewing. For example, users can ask the glasses to capture a whiteboard, organise information in Samsung Notes or provide directions based on their surroundings.

Samsung showed two frame designs. Gentle Monster created a slim black frame, while Warby Parker developed a brown frame with a slightly upswept shape.

The company has not yet confirmed broad retail pricing or a detailed global release schedule for the glasses.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Prices and Availability

Samsung opened pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8 and Flip8 on 22 July in selected markets. Colour choices include Graphite and Cream across the range, with additional model-specific and Samsung.com-exclusive colours.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 also became available for pre-order on 22 July. Samsung says general watch availability begins on 7 August.

Samsung UK currently lists the Galaxy Watch9 from £349, although the final price depends on the case size and connectivity option.

The company has not published one universal global price list because pricing and promotions differ by region.

Which Samsung Device Was the Biggest Announcement?

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra was the biggest hardware announcement.

On the other hand, it brings Samsung’s Ultra branding to a foldable for the first time, while combining an 8-inch display, 200MP camera, 5,000mAh battery and flagship processor.

However, the intelligent eyewear may prove more important in the long term. It shows how Samsung plans to move Galaxy AI beyond phones, watches and tablets into devices users can wear throughout the day.

Should You Upgrade?

The right choice depends on your current device.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra makes the most sense for users who want a large foldable with strong cameras and advanced multitasking.

This model, the Galaxy Z Fold8 suits users who prefer a lighter device built around media, reading and social content.

The Galaxy Z Flip8 is better for users who want a compact phone, cover-screen AI tools and hands-free camera features.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 buyers receive the largest battery and strongest outdoor features. Meanwhile, the Watch9 provides most of Samsung’s everyday health tools in a smaller and lighter design.

Owners of recent Fold7, Flip7 or Galaxy Watch8 devices should wait for detailed real-world tests before upgrading. The new hardware looks promising, but battery life, durability and camera performance require independent testing.

For more Samsung coverage, read our report on One UI 9 testing for the Galaxy S25 series.

You can also explore the latest Google wearable news in our article about the Google Pixel Watch 5 renders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Samsung announce at Galaxy Unpacked 2026?

Samsung announced the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch Ultra2, Galaxy Watch9 and intelligent Android XR eyewear.

When did Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 take place?

Samsung hosted the event in London on 22 July 2026.

What is the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra?

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is Samsung’s first ultra-branded foldable. It includes an 8-inch main display, 200MP camera and 5,000mAh battery.

What is the difference between Fold8 and Fold8 Ultra?

The Fold8 Ultra has larger displays, a 200MP camera, a telephoto lens, and a bigger battery. The standard Fold8 is lighter and uses a wider shape designed for content.

Does the Galaxy Z Fold8 support the S Pen?

No. Samsung says the Galaxy Z Fold8 does not support the S Pen.

What software do the new Samsung foldables use?

The Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 run Android 17 with One UI 9.

When will Galaxy Watch9 launch?

Samsung opened pre-orders on 22 July, with general availability beginning on 7 August 2026.

Do Samsung’s intelligent glasses use Gemini?

Yes. Samsung developed the glasses with Google, and they use Gemini on the Android XR platform.

How long does Samsung’s intelligent eyewear battery last?

Samsung says the eyewear can provide up to nine hours of use, depending on features, settings, and network conditions.

Final Thoughts

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 showed that Samsung no longer views foldables as a single premium product category.

The Fold8 Ultra targets power users, the Fold8 introduces a more compact, content-focused shape, and the Flip8 adds smarter cover-screen interactions.

Samsung also expanded its wearable strategy with stronger health tracking, a massive Watch Ultra2 battery, and intelligent glasses powered by Gemini.

The Fold8 Ultra may attract the most immediate attention, but Samsung’s Android XR eyewear could become the event’s most important announcement if the company delivers comfortable hardware, reliable AI, and sensible pricing.