The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 may be taking a surprising turn-Samsung is reportedly planning to ditch the titanium backplate introduced with the Z Fold 7.
While this may sound like a step back in durability, it’s actually part of a larger strategic move to cut costs and improve profit margins amid a tough global market.
According to reports from The Elec, Samsung might replace the sturdy but expensive titanium with carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). This switch would technically lower the structural rigidity of the foldable, but CFRP isn’t new to Samsung’s lineup. It was used as far back as the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and still featured in the Z Fold 6.
Why the change? The supply chain chaos caused by ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China has made sourcing titanium more difficult and costly. CFRP, on the other hand, is more readily available and cheaper to work with. It may not have the same premium feel, but it enables Samsung to price its devices more competitively in a market that’s becoming increasingly price-sensitive.
While some purists may see this as a downgrade, others may welcome a lighter device that’s still reasonably durable-especially if it means a friendlier price tag. And let’s not forget: just because the Z Fold 8 might lack titanium doesn’t mean it’s lacking in power. If anything, this change could open the door for better thermals, slimmer builds, and possibly even higher specs where it matters.
That said, The Elec has missed the mark before, so take this with a grain of salt. If you’re looking for a titanium-backed foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is still an excellent choice. Currently, you can even snag a model with 512GB storage and score a $300 Amazon gift card-not a bad deal for what may become the last titanium-backed foldable flagship.