Samsung says new foldable phones set to break preorder records

Samsung Electronics Co. said Wednesday that its latest foldable smartphones are exceeding preorder expectations, with the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra and Z Flip 8 on track to surpass all previous Z-series models.

The passport-shaped Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra are currently ahead of last year’s preorder numbers by 30%, according to a company statement. The squat, wide-format Fold 8 accounts for nearly half of all preorders, Samsung said, suggesting the new design style has gained consumer interest before reaching stores.

The announcement indicates continued demand for smartphones, even as prices rise due to higher memory and component costs.