Right away the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra feels like an improvement over its predecessor, thanks to one small detail I never expected to matter much. After two days carrying Samsung's premium foldable through London streets, I have tested its large inner screen and improved rear cameras extensively. Plenty stands out positively, yet the elevated cost means expectations must be met.

These are my initial findings from the Z Fold 8 Ultra, with more thorough evaluation still underway for the complete review.

Marginal physical changes, important hinge updates

Samsung claims the Fold 8 Ultra is its thinnest foldable yet. Measuring 4.1mm at the narrowest point, the device is indeed slim. However, this represents only a 0.1mm reduction compared with the prior Z Fold 7, and placed side by side the difference is imperceptible. The overall appearance remains unchanged, so anyone seeking a dramatic redesign will feel let down.

Even so, the slender profile sits comfortably in one hand and slips smoothly into a jeans pocket. Earlier Fold models created noticeable bulging, but the latest version avoids that issue.

A subtle bevel along the inner display edges creates a small gap when closed, making it simple to grasp and unfold. This minor adjustment proves surprisingly useful during repeated daily openings, unlike the near-seamless design of the Z Fold 7.

The hinge mechanism operates more smoothly, adding a premium feel without a complete overhaul. When opened, the updated hinge produces a flatter surface that reduces crease visibility on the inner screen. A fresh anti-reflective layer further minimizes reflections from overhead lights, allowing uninterrupted viewing of videos in low light.

Cameras and AI tricks

While exploring London I captured numerous photos, and the Z Fold 8 Ultra performed well. The 200-megapixel primary sensor stays largely the same, yet the ultrawide camera increases from 12 to 15 megapixels.

Both lenses produce sharp, colorful results consistent with high-end Samsung devices. As a photographer I sometimes find the heavy processing and lifted shadows create an overly HDR appearance, though this suits casual social media sharing.

The 3x telephoto lens captured pleasing images, and night mode delivered attractive shots along the Thames plus evening scenes at the launch event.

New AI features include FanCam, which reframes video around a chosen individual. The concept works for isolating a subject in crowded footage, yet heavy cropping can reduce resolution. Shooting in 8K helps, but 4K clips may appear grainy when zoomed tightly. The tool tracks people only and occasionally fails to detect a subject.

Generative AI allows scene alterations via text prompts. A sunset conversion looked convincing but artificial, and I prefer avoiding such edits in professional work.

Super Steady Horizontal Lock stands out for video. It maintains a level horizon during movement and even full rotations, achieved through sensor cropping. This feature benefits action recording where precise framing is difficult.

Battery life boost

The 5,000-mAh battery is Samsung's largest in a foldable, rated for up to 27 hours of video playback. After a full day of photography, editing and AI tool use in London, the charge remained near 70 percent, though cellular connectivity was limited.

Support for 45-watt charging, up from 25 watts previously, proved convenient. A quick top-up from 40 percent brought the device near full before heading out.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: My early conclusion

Compared with the Z Fold 7, changes appear incremental. Daily performance feels similar, and the design is nearly identical aside from the helpful bevel. Owners of the prior model likely have little reason to upgrade.

Still, the device has been enjoyable to use. The inner display shows minimal creasing, video stabilization excels, and battery endurance represents a clear step forward. These qualities will appeal to those moving from older foldables or considering a first purchase.

Further testing will include processor benchmarks, gaming sessions and expanded camera evaluations, along with additional AI features. More details will follow.