Samsung Electronics has opened pre-orders for its latest foldable smartphone lineup in East Africa, introducing the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8.
The new devices run on Samsung’s One UI 9 software and bring upgraded security, artificial intelligence tools, improved migration from Apple devices and cross-platform file-sharing capabilities.
According to Samsung, the latest software is designed to address concerns raised by technology enthusiasts and power users, particularly around privacy, transparency and control over artificial intelligence applications running in the background.
One UI 9 introduces Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection, which creates encrypted, app-specific environments for tasks handled by Samsung’s Personal Data Engine. This is intended to prevent personal information from being accessed by wider system processes.
The feature works alongside Knox Vault, Samsung’s tamper-resistant hardware security platform, which protects cryptographic keys, passwords and authentication tokens from physical attacks.
Samsung has also introduced an AI Assistant Activity Dashboard, which allows users to view automated actions being performed by AI agents on their devices.
Through the dashboard, users can review individual agents, audit their activities and revoke access where necessary. Real-time Privacy Alerts will also notify users when an application attempts to access permissions without authorisation.
“We designed One UI 9 specifically for tech enthusiasts and power users who demand high-performance capabilities without sacrificing system transparency or control,” said Manish Jangra, Head of Mobile Experience Division at Samsung East Africa.
“Whether it’s bridging ecosystem divides with native AirDrop compatibility via Quick Share, accelerating multi-app workflows with built-in Google AI Pro features, or securing local processing using Knox KEEP, we are directly addressing real tech pain points for both power users and platform switchers across the region.”
Easier migration from iPhone to Galaxy
Samsung is also targeting users switching from Apple devices through an upgraded Smart Switch platform.
The wireless migration tool allows users to transfer data from an iPhone to a Galaxy device by scanning a QR code, without installing an additional application.
Samsung says Smart Switch can now transfer passkeys, saved login details, call history, accessibility settings and active eSIM profiles.
Quick Share has also been upgraded to support two-way wireless transfers with Apple’s AirDrop, allowing users to share high-resolution files between iOS devices and the new Galaxy foldables.
The devices will also come with a complimentary six-month Google AI Pro subscription, which includes 5TB of cloud storage.
One UI 9 further introduces a Warranty and Care Settings Hub, bringing device diagnostics, remote support, warranty information and Samsung Care+ plans into a single menu.
Customers purchasing through Samsung.com and subscribing to a monthly Samsung Care+ plan will receive the first three months of damage protection at no additional cost.
Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 prices in Kenya
The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is available for pre-order at KSh271,000 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version.
The 12GB RAM and 512GB storage model is priced at KSh297,100, while the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage version will retail at KSh349,300.
The standard Galaxy Z Fold8 starts at KSh243,900 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model.
Its 12GB RAM and 512GB storage version is priced at KSh270,000, while the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage model will cost KSh322,200.
The Galaxy Z Flip8 starts at KSh159,200 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version, while the 12GB RAM and 512GB storage model is priced at KSh185,300.
The devices will be offered in Graphite and Cream, alongside model-specific colours including Violet Shadow, Lavender and Pink.
Customers purchasing through Samsung’s website will also have access to exclusive Green Shadow, Pistachio and Mint colour options.
