Samsung to reveal new foldables and AI glasses at July 22 Unpacked event
Samsung has scheduled its Galaxy Unpacked event for July 22, 2026, to introduce a new foldable lineup, wearable updates, and its broader vision for the AI era.
Samsung has officially scheduled its summer Galaxy Unpacked event for July 22, 2026. The presentation will take place in London at 9 a.m. ET (2 p.m. BST) and will be broadcast live via the company’s official website and YouTube channel. The event is set to introduce a series of new devices, with the company aiming to redefine its position in the foldable market while emphasizing its broader vision for the "AI era."
The New Foldable Lineup
In a strategic shift, Samsung is introducing a three-pronged approach to its foldable series. The company is positioning these devices to appeal to different user segments, ranging from casual users to power users looking for premium hardware.
Media additions
- Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: Positioned as the direct successor to previous high-end models, this device aligns with Samsung’s "Ultra" branding. Leaks suggest it will feature a 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging. Notably, it is expected to include a 200MP primary camera sensor, marking the first time a foldable from the company has approached the hardware capabilities of the Galaxy S Ultra series.
- Galaxy Z Fold 8 (Wide): Representing a new form factor, this model is specifically designed to compete with rumored upcoming foldable hardware from Apple. It features a 5.4-inch cover screen and a 7.6-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. By adopting this wider shape, Samsung aims to provide a more natural, tablet-like experience that avoids the black bars often seen during video playback on taller, narrower foldables.
- Galaxy Z Flip 8: This clamshell device continues as a mid-range offering, focusing on portability and refreshed aesthetics for a broader audience.
The Competitive Landscape
Samsung’s expansion into these distinct foldable form factors arrives as industry analysts track the development of the first foldable iPhone, which is expected to launch in September 2026. Apple is reportedly working on a device that utilizes a "crease-free" display solution sourced from Samsung Display. Suppliers such as Fine M-Tec are expected to play a critical role in manufacturing the hinges for these devices.
Samsung executives have maintained a stance of confidence regarding this competition. Choi Won-Joon, Samsung President and MX COO, stated in a recent interview:
He further noted that Samsung welcomes others to the category it pioneered in 2019, emphasizing that the company’s seven years of experience in developing foldables provides a competitive edge."I think healthy competition with other companies will bring more innovations and benefits to the consumer,"
Choi Won-Joon, President and MX COO, via Bloomberg
AI Integration and Wearables
Beyond mobile handsets, the July 22 event will address Samsung’s strategy for artificial intelligence. The company intends to integrate multiple AI agents rather than relying solely on Gemini, aiming for the smartphone to remain the "central hub" for its AI framework.
Wearable technology will also receive updates. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to feature a significantly larger 800 mAh battery, while the Galaxy Watch 9 will receive processor and design refreshments. There is also anticipation surrounding the potential reveal of "Galaxy Glasses," a pair of smart glasses designed to interact with AI through integrated cameras and microphones. These glasses are reportedly being developed in partnership with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, though specific pricing and retail release dates remain undisclosed.
Looking Ahead
Following this, the industry will turn its attention to Apple, which is expected to launch its own foldable device in the fall of 2026, a move that analysts suggest may further validate the foldable category for mainstream consumers.
