Samsung says Australian consumers are placing greater importance on smartphone portability, with new research indicating that 84 per cent consider size and the ability to easily carry a device among the most important factors when choosing their next phone.

The findings come as the company prepares to release its latest foldable lineup, comprising the Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip8, alongside the new Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2.

According to Samsung, early demand has been particularly strong for the Galaxy Z Fold8, with the current pre-order campaign on track to become the company’s most successful foldable launch to date. The new devices officially go on sale following the close of the pre-order period on 13 August.

The research also found that brand loyalty remains a key factor in purchasing decisions. Among Australians considering a foldable smartphone, 65 per cent said they would choose Samsung because they trust the brand.

Samsung believes foldable devices are becoming increasingly attractive as consumers look for smartphones that deliver premium performance while remaining compact enough to fit comfortably into a pocket or bag.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 introduces a new passport-sized design intended to offer a more portable form factor without sacrificing screen space. Samsung says the device is designed to provide a smoother transition between portrait and landscape viewing, making it better suited to streaming, gaming and multitasking.

For users seeking flagship specifications, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra adds a 200-megapixel primary camera, Galaxy AI features, fast charging and a large battery, with Samsung positioning the device as a productivity tool for both work and entertainment.

The Galaxy Z Flip8 targets consumers who prioritise compactness, weighing 180 grams and measuring just 6.1mm thick when unfolded. Samsung says it is the lightest and thinnest Flip model the company has produced.

The company’s latest consumer research also points to growing interest in wearable technology. Samsung found that 85 per cent of Australians regularly or occasionally participate in some form of exercise, increasing demand for smartwatches that offer health monitoring alongside fitness tracking.

To address that demand, Samsung has expanded its smartwatch portfolio with two new models. The Galaxy Watch9 is designed for everyday health and wellness, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 targets outdoor enthusiasts and serious athletes with enhanced sports tracking, a brighter display and a larger battery.

Both watches integrate Samsung Health and Galaxy AI to provide personalised health insights, sleep tracking and fitness monitoring, giving users more detailed information about their wellbeing.

Samsung’s latest survey was conducted by Pureprofile on behalf of Samsung Electronics Australia between 7 and 11 July 2026 among 1,017 Australians, with additional research from Kantar Singapore examining attitudes towards foldable smartphones among 326 Australian consumers.