Samsung continues to divide its foldable phone catalogue according to user profile. While the Fold8 positions itself as the "foldable for everyone" and the Z Fold8 Ultra targets professional users, the Galaxy Z Flip8 arrives as the lightest and most compact option, designed for those who prioritise the practicality of carrying a device in their pocket. The South Korean company has refined it with software updates, improvements to the external display and a weight reduction that makes it even more comfortable to carry.

A thinner and lighter phone, without sacrificing the screen

The Z Flip8 boasts compact dimensions: 6.1 mm thickness and 180 grams in weight, a reduction compared to its predecessor, the Z Flip7 (which measured 6.5 mm and weighed 188 grams). Despite this slimming down, Samsung has maintained the generous 6.9-inch internal display, keeping it a versatile device for entertainment and productivity when you unfold it.

An interesting new feature is the increase in maximum brightness: from 2,600 nits to 3,000 nits, which should translate into better readability under intense sunlight. The external design barely changes from previous generations, with the rear divided into two sections and a 4.1-inch external screen from which to interact with AI assistants, answer calls or check notifications without needing to open the phone.

The improved hinge and new software, the core changes

Samsung has equipped the Z Flip8 with new hinge technology called Flex Titanium, which combines a titanium film with a titanium plate in the fold area. The promise is clear: reduce the impact of the characteristic crease on foldables and, at least visually, make it less noticeable. The theory sounds promising; the practice will be known when in-depth reviews examine the device.

In terms of software, the Z Flip8 runs Android 17 with One UI 9 and Samsung promises seven years of updates. The operating system brings improvements to FlexWindow, the external screen experience, allowing you to use applications like WhatsApp or email from that screen without unfolding the phone. It also integrates Now Brief and the ability to automate actions through Gemini Intelligence from the side button.

Differentiated processor and unchanged camera

According to xataka.com, Samsung maintains a differentiated strategy in processors: while its Fold siblings incorporate the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite, the Z Flip8 features the Exynos 2600, a two-nanometre chip with ten cores. This is the same approach as last year with the Flip7. Samsung claims that the new thermal management system should prevent the performance throttling that its predecessor experienced.

The configuration is practically identical to the Flip7: 12 GB of RAM, 256 or 512 GB storage, and 4,300 mAh battery with 25W fast charging. In photography, no changes: two rear sensors (50 MP main with OIS and 12 MP ultra-wide) and a 10 MP front sensor. Still no telephoto, which is typical for this range.

Substantial improvement or generational polish?

The Z Flip8 presents a gradual update rather than a revolutionary one. If you have a Flip7 running, the incentive to upgrade lies in the weight savings, improved brightness and new FlexWindow capabilities. For those seeking a compact foldable that fits in a pocket, without photographic ambitions or maximum performance demands, it remains a solid bet. The question is whether the improved software and hinge justify the expense for those already enjoying their previous model.