Samsung has announced the launch of three new foldables – the Z Flip 8, Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra – with improved power, durability, battery life, cameras and AI features. But a new warning suggests Galaxy fans should think twice before upgrading.
Foldables Depreciate Faster Than Other Smartphones
According to the team at Compare and Recycle, this latest batch of devices could be a bad investment for those wanting to trade in after a year or two. Their research shows that foldables depreciate faster than other smartphones on the market, leaving many owners facing significant financial losses if they plan to sell the device.
Compare and Recycle’s analysis found that foldables lost around 70 percent of their original price in the first 12 months – that's 10 to 15 percent worse than typical flagship smartphones.
Potential Loss of Over £1,300
If the Z Fold 8 Ultra depreciates at that alarming rate, it could mean a loss of over £1,300 in value within just 12 months – leaving buyers with a device worth as little as £570. That shock drop in value isn’t helped by a price rise from Samsung this year, which is making these devices even more expensive to buy in the first place. Those wanting to take delivery of the Z Fold 8 Ultra will need to part with £1,899.
Expert Advice on Depreciation
Antonia Hristov, tech expert and head of marketing at the mobile phone recycling comparison site, said: "Our research shows a clear and concerning picture for the foldable smartphone category.
"Across both Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip and Fold series and Google’s Pixel Fold, we found that these high-priced, innovation-driven devices have proven to be the fastest depreciating smartphones on the market within their first year of release.
"Every foldable model analysed lost at least 57% of its retail value within 12 months, with several models exceeding 80% depreciation.
"Anyone looking to test out a foldable smartphone should consider these extreme value losses in their upgrade decisions, and perhaps opt for trialling a refurbished foldable model first to avoid steep depreciation."
Apple's Potential Foldable Rival
Another thing to watch out for before splashing out on a Galaxy foldable is what's coming next from Apple. It's thought the US technology firm could be readying the release of its own bendable iPhone and it could get its grand unveiling in September. Rumours are rife that it could look a little like the new Z Fold 8 and feature a passport design that opens to reveal an iPad-style main display. Nothing has yet been confirmed, but watch this space as we could be less than two months away from finding out full details.
