Introduction

On Wednesday, Samsung Electronics introduced its latest foldable smartphones, enhancing its flagship models with a slimmer and lighter design while integrating advanced AI functions. This launch is a strategic move to challenge Apple's dominance in the premium market.

New Foldable Smartphones

Samsung, the world's largest smartphone maker and a pioneer in the foldable phone segment since 2019, unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. These new models aim to regain market share after a decline from 81% in 2022 to 63% in 2023, as reported by Canalys.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is now Samsung's lightest and slimmest foldable phone, designed to attract more customers. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 features a longer battery life, a higher resolution camera, and a new vapor chamber to keep the device cooler, addressing customer pain points.

The Z Flip 6 is priced at $1,099.99, and the Z Fold 6 starts at $1,899.99. Despite a $100 price increase from last year's models, this adjustment comes in the face of rising material costs and after maintaining consistent launch prices for three years.

Advanced AI Functions

Samsung's new foldable phones are equipped with advanced AI functions, including a "listening mode" for simultaneous interpretation by voice when paired with Galaxy Buds earphones. Additionally, Samsung collaborated with Google's Alphabet to introduce new AI search functions, such as solving math problems by circling them on the screen.

Health Monitoring Enhancements

To drive demand for its accessories, Samsung has introduced sophisticated health monitoring features in its Galaxy Watch products. The new models come with enhanced sensors and a 3-nanometre chip that significantly improves application booting and processing efficiencies.

The Galaxy Watch is now a U.S. FDA-approved device for monitoring sleep apnea. It also measures functional threshold power (FTP) for cycling enthusiasts and tracks advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), a biomarker related to diabetes.

Introducing the Galaxy Ring

Samsung's focus on health monitoring is highlighted by the introduction of the Galaxy Ring. Priced at $399, this lightweight ring (weighing 3 grams or less) can be worn in the shower or while swimming. It continuously monitors heart rate and stress levels and can control a Samsung phone's camera or alarm.

"Bringing AI-powered health and fitness features to wearables will be important to differentiate Samsung from other smartwatch vendors and is core to attracting brand switchers in the premium segment," said Jack Leathem, Research Analyst at Canalys.

Availability

The new Samsung products, including the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6, and Galaxy Ring, will be available starting July 24 in South Korea, North America, and Europe.