According to recent reports from Samsung insiders, the company has decided to maintain its free storage upgrade promotion for the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8, but only for the jump from 256GB to 512GB. For those who want the 1TB variant, a 50% discount on the upgrade cost will apply instead. This decision follows weeks of speculation that Samsung might end all free upgrades due to rising component costs.
Samsung confirms free 256GB to 512GB upgrade
Initial rumors suggested Samsung would scrap the free upgrade entirely, replacing it with a 50% discount on any storage increase. However, a new report from Korean outlet News1 clarifies that the policy remains unchanged for the 512GB version. On Samsung's official website, selecting the 512GB Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Flip 8 will cost the same as the base 256GB model. Samsung stated: “After careful consideration, we decided to maintain the pre-sale promotion, taking into account our commitment to consumers and brand loyalty built over the years.” This move is likely to please many fans who feared losing the long-standing benefit.
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Half-price upgrade for the 1TB tier
For users aiming for the 1TB storage tier, the news is mixed: the upgrade is not free, but Samsung will charge only 50% of the usual cost. This is still a significant saving compared to buying a 1TB model after the pre-order period. The change may reflect increasing component prices, which have forced Samsung to adjust its promotional strategy. It remains to be seen whether this approach will extend to other devices.
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Galaxy Z Fold 8 pricing expected to rise
Despite the free upgrade for 512GB, the entire Galaxy Z Fold 8 series is expected to see higher price tags, especially the Ultra variant. Samsung has already opened reservations, offering a small credit to those who sign up ahead of the Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22. For those considering a purchase, early reservation is advisable. In a competitive landscape where rivals like Google are readying the Pixel 11a, Samsung aims to retain its lead with these targeted offers.
For more technical details on the Galaxy Z Fold series, refer to the Wikipedia page.
Source: https://9to5google.com/2026/07/17/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-8-free-storage-upgrade
