Samsung

Samsung could end free storage upgrades with Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8

Damien Wilde | Jul 14 2026 - 7:50 am PT

We have some bad news if you were planning on buying the Galaxy Z Flip 8 or Fold 8 and counting on Samsung’s signature free storage upgrade.

According to a new report from Korean outlet Chosun, the highly popular Samsung storage pre-order upgrade is undergoing a massive change due to the global storage and RAM crisis that will no doubt annoy many long-time fans.

For those unaware, basically, since the launch of the Galaxy S23 series in 2023, Samsung has offered a “Free Double Storage” promotion. This highly popular deal allowed early adopters to pre-order various models, usually from the 256GB model upwards, and receive the 512GB version at no extra charge. This scaled depending on which model you were looking at, so 512GB would become 1TB, etc. All great news if you are happy to get in from launch day.

However, starting with the next-generation foldable lineup, which means the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8, Fold 8, and Fold 8 Ultra, this free perk is being cut in half. Instead of a free double storage bump, buyers must now pay 50% of the price difference to upgrade. Based on current pricing trends, customers may have to pay roughly 126,500 won (approximately $90 USD) out of pocket for the Samsung storage pre-order upgrade.

Advertisement - scroll for more content

It sounds like a bit of a kick in the teeth, because it basically is. According to this report, Samsung needs to increase the margins on its flagship lines, and this is one of the easiest ways to do so.

The next Galaxy Unpacked event is scheduled to take place in London on July 22nd. Domestic pre-orders will run from July 28th to August 3rd, with the official launch expected on August 7th.

While the era of completely free double storage may be over, the 50% discount still offers some value. Will you still be upgrading your next Galaxy device? Let us know in the comments!