Samsung recently launched its 'passport' format smartphone, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, along with several other devices. Brand enthusiasts noted that the Privacy Screen, a feature designed to hide information from onlookers, is not available in the latest version.
HS Jo, CEO and President of Samsung in Latin America, clarified that the company's strategy prioritizes other screen optimizations. A central point of these improvements is the crease, which still causes discomfort for some consumers.
In a roundtable discussion with regional journalists, HS Jo mentioned that the manufacturer invested in developing Flex Titanium. This new material allows the foldable screen to be 30% thinner and possess 20 times greater resistance.
Jo acknowledged criticisms regarding previous generations, such as the Fold 7 and Flip 7. He pointed out that consumers showed psychological concern about the foldable screen, especially due to the visibility of the crease on the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Although the 2025 generation has advanced in crease discretion, the first look at the Fold 8, coming from London, indicated that the crease is even more subtle.
Otávio Penatti, Samsung's Director of Research and Development, highlighted that the internal screen has become one of the most valued attributes by users of foldable devices. According to Otávio, about 70% of interactions on previous models occurred on the larger internal display, while the remaining 30% were used on the external screen.
Otávio also informed that the company is making efforts to extend privacy technology to more models. Currently, this functionality is restricted to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, launched in January. This technology integrates hardware and software to darken pixels of selected applications or notifications by the user, and it is considered a notable feature in the new line.
CEO HS Jo concluded that the inclusion of the Privacy Screen in other devices will depend on market evolution and customer feedback.
The new Fold line was presented on July 22 during the Unpacked event. It comprises two models: the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which introduces the 'passport' format with dimensions of 7.6/5.5 inches, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, maintaining the 8.0/6.5 inch configuration.
The new Galaxy Folds have been confirmed for the Brazilian market. Although the prices remain confidential, Samsung is expected to disclose them at a local event scheduled for August 6. In the United States, the prices are US$ 1,899 and US$ 2,099, corresponding to R$ 9,645 and R$ 10,663, respectively, based on direct conversion. The manufacturer has already started registering interested parties.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on Thursday that it is aware of the plans of the United States and Saudi Arabia to approach it with a request to conduct verification work regarding their discussed nuclear cooperation deal. However, the request from these countries has not yet been received.
In its statement, the International Atomic Energy Agency expressed its readiness to receive such a verification request and to work jointly with the US and KSA to ensure the implementation of the agreed measures.
