Samsung has pushed its foldable range forward with last year's slim Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the expansive Galaxy Z TriFold. Yet the device drawing the most attention right now is the new passport-sized Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Featuring a 4:3 aspect ratio and a compact frame, the Z Fold 8 stands apart from typical smartphones. When opened it handles horizontal videos and landscape multitasking with ease, while also offering extra space for portrait apps. The 5.5-inch cover screen handles quick tasks such as messaging or email checks comfortably, and the 7.6-inch inner display provides versatility for browsing or viewing content without excess bulk.

The price stands out at a starting $1,900. It includes dual 50-megapixel rear cameras without a telephoto option and a 4,800-mAh battery that supports 45-watt wired plus 20-watt wireless charging.

Following Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event in London, hands-on time has produced early observations. A complete review is forthcoming, but several aspects already stand out with this reimagined book-style phone. The Z Fold 7 design, which earned a CNET Editors' Choice Award, continues in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

Preorders are open now, with availability set for Aug. 7.

After the London event week, testing of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 moves forward at home. Additional observations beyond first impressions will appear in the final review.

Gallery images expand fully across the open display whether captured vertically or horizontally. In portrait mode the larger format offers a familiar yet enhanced view compared with standard phones.

The 5.5-inch cover display proves practical even for larger hands. Typing feels manageable, though the keyboard takes up significant space and limits visible content. Bedtime texting proved slightly awkward due to reduced grip room when closed, yet no mishaps occurred. Whether a standard cover screen like that on the Z Fold 8 Ultra will be preferred later remains to be seen.

The new Flex Titanium display is thinner and more durable than earlier versions, resulting in a barely noticeable crease. Comparisons with the Z Fold 7 highlight the improvement when screens are off.

Even owners of last year's Z Fold 7 will notice the completely refreshed design. The 4:3 open ratio and 16:10 closed ratio create a distinct feel from the taller 21:9 cover screens on the Z Fold 7 and Z Fold 8 Ultra. Those seeking something different may consider waiting for the Aug. 7 launch, provided the $1,900 price fits.

At $1,900 the Z Fold 8 costs $200 less than the Z Fold 8 Ultra, which retains the taller cover screen ratio from the prior model.

Preorders have begun, with the device arriving Aug. 7 alongside the Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8.

Overall impressions so far center on size and versatility. Typing while holding the phone open in landscape mode during travel has proven convenient, leaving a laptop stored away. Portrait orientation feels especially natural for social scrolling or document reading, aligning better with vertical content common today. Camera performance without a telephoto lens will receive closer examination in the full review, though the dual 50-megapixel wide and ultrawide units have handled London photography well so far.

Photos captured across London landmarks showcase the camera's current capabilities.

Split-screen use in landscape can hide interface elements, such as Instagram controls when apps share the display vertically. Portrait mode does not fully resolve this, though double-tap liking remains available. Side-by-side app placement works more smoothly and avoids these issues.

Unlike the Z Fold 7, whose 6.5-inch cover screen reduced inner display use, the Z Fold 8 encourages more frequent unfolding for routine activities like social browsing, maps, and messaging. Novelty may play a role, and longer-term habits will be tracked.

Typing on the cover screen is straightforward, yet the main display in landscape requires more reach even with larger hands. Portrait orientation improves this with a well-sized keyboard and better content visibility above it.

At 201 grams the Z Fold 8 is the lightest Galaxy Fold model. Thickness measures 4.5 mm open and 9.7 mm closed, comparable to devices like the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The square shape rests naturally in the palm like a pocket notebook, evoking a classic detective's notepad when pulled out.

The lavender finish stands out vividly compared with cream or graphite options. An online-exclusive pistachio green adds further appeal, confirming that additional color choices enhance the lineup.

Early London time with the Z Fold 8 highlighted its passport-sized design optimized for both horizontal and vertical media, delivering an engaging user experience.