Every couple of years, I typically look at upgrading my phone. For the past two years, I’ve been using the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. While it’s been an absolute workhorse, looking at the standard candy-bar upgrades just didn't do it for me. Marginal camera improvements or minor processor bumps aren't enough motivation to drop serious money on a new device. I wanted something genuinely different, practical, and exciting, which brought me to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Here are the key takeaways from my unboxing and initial real-world test.

The biggest selling point for me over standard phones or even the Fold Ultra model is the form factor:

• Passport Dimensions: Folded up, the Z Fold 8 has a shorter, slightly wider footprint than tall, narrow slabs. It slides into front and back pockets much easier without awkwardly sticking out.

• iPad Mini in Your Pocket: Unfolded, you get an inner screen comparable to an iPad Mini. It provides massive screen real estate without having to carry a dedicated tablet, a separate gear bag, or fuss with tethered mobile hotspots.

• 4:3 Aspect Ratio: The inner display layout is ideal for browsing web pages, reading documents, and viewing full-frame photos without the cramped cropping typical of traditional phones turned sideways.

Content Creation & Vlogging on the Move

For running Get Fit Over 40, recording workout clips, and posting updates on social media, this setup streamlines mobile production:

• Rear-Camera Selfies: Opening the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 allows you to frame yourself on the front screen while recording with the main 50 MP wide camera. You get maximum sensor quality and dynamic range without being forced to rely on lower-grade inner lenses.

• Minimalist Rig: Paired with a slim MagSafe-compatible case and a compact magnetic selfie stick/tripod, it doubles as an ultra-portable vlogging rig that requires zero bulky camera gear.

• Versatile Field Testing: Initial tests while walking outdoors showed solid stabilization and crisp 4K recording, with easy switching between the ultra-wide, 1x, and 2x digital zoom levels.

In the Box & Initial Setup

The unboxing is standard modern Samsung, minimalist and straightforward:

• Included Accessories: The box includes the phone itself, the SIM removal tool, and a USB-C to USB-C charging cable capable for fast charging. (You will need to supply your own wall adapter).

• Specs Chosen: Opted for the 512 GB graphite model with 12 GB of RAM, which hits the sweet spot for storing high-resolution fitness video footage and daily multitasking.

I’ll be putting the Galaxy Z Fold 8 through its paces over the next few weeks at the gym and outdoors to see how it holds up as my daily driver for workouts, productivity, and video creation. Stay tuned for a possible follow-up review, and make sure to follow along on the website and Rumble for upcoming updates!

• Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8