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● TRACKER Updated 2d ago · 44 sources tracked

Samsung gets 'Tim Cook' to praise the Galaxy Z Fold 8

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales have significantly increased, particularly in Europe where sales rose 45%. The company attributes this success to the delayed launch of Apple's iPhone Duo. Some iPhone Duo owners have reported that their devices cracked within hours of unboxing, with a possible explanation being a faulty hinge.

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  • ✓ Samsung reports a significant surge in Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales, particularly in Europe where sales rose 45%.
  • ✓ The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series runs on Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools.
  • ✓ Some iPhone Duo owners have reported that their devices cracked within hours of unboxing.
  • ✓ A possible explanation for the iPhone Duo cracking issue is a faulty hinge.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 44 independent reporting domains (90% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

Samsung has started to leverage the issues with Apple's iPhone Duo to promote the Galaxy Z Fold 8, releasing a new ad that touts the device as thinner and lighter.

Live updates

  1. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales surge amid iPhone Duo issues

    Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales have significantly increased, particularly in Europe where sales rose 45%. The company attributes this success to the delayed launch of Apple's iPhone Duo. Some iPhone Duo owners have reported that their devices cracked within hours of unboxing, with a possible explanation being a faulty hinge.

    Why it matters

    The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, including Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 models, runs on Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools. Samsung has been quick to capitalize on the issues surrounding Apple's iPhone Duo, releasing a sponsored Instagram ad that mocks the iPhone Duo's early cracking reports.

    What is confirmed

    • Samsung reports a significant surge in Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales, particularly in Europe where sales rose 45%.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series runs on Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools.
    • Some iPhone Duo owners have reported that their devices cracked within hours of unboxing.
    • A possible explanation for the iPhone Duo cracking issue is a faulty hinge.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 was announced on 22 July 2026, during the Galaxy Unpacked event.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Tim Cook praises the Galaxy Z Fold 8

    What to watch next

    • Apple's response to the iPhone Duo cracking issue
    • Samsung's future sales figures for the Galaxy Z Fold 8
    • A full investigation into the cause of the iPhone Duo cracking issue
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. fortune.com — Hachette’s CEO says AI shortcuts are creating a ‘worse C-suite'
    2. tech.yahoo.com — Some iPhone Duo owners say Apple’s $1,999 foldable cracked within hours of unboxing—and a possible explanation has emerged - Y....
    3. hitechreports.com — Samsung Mocks Apple's iPhone Duo Crackgate in New Fold 8 Ad
    4. www.techwalla.com — Samsung iPhone Duo Ad: What Fold 8 Claims Do and Don't Prove
    5. www.sammobile.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8: Everything you need to know
    confidence 90%

  2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales surge

    Samsung reports a significant surge in Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales, particularly in Europe where sales rose 45%. The company attributes this success to the delayed launch of Apple's iPhone Duo, which drove demand for Samsung's foldable devices. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, including Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 models, runs on Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools.

    Why it matters

    The surge in sales comes as Samsung capitalizes on Apple's delayed entry into the foldable market. Searches for Samsung foldables increased following the iPhone Duo unveiling, aiding sales of the passport-style devices. This development is crucial for Samsung as it competes with Apple in the smartphone market.

    What is confirmed

    • Samsung reports a 45% sales surge for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 in Europe
    • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 series runs on Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools
    • Searches for Samsung foldables surged following the iPhone Duo unveiling

    Still unconfirmed

    • A New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook was used in Samsung advertisements directed at Apple

    What to watch next

    • Samsung's future sales reports
    • Apple's response to Samsung's success
    • Release dates for new foldable devices from both companies
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. www.sammobile.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra: Everything you need to know
    2. 9to5google.com — Samsung reiterates Galaxy Z Fold 8 is a hit, with help from ...
    3. hothardware.com — Samsung Rides Apple iPhone Duo Hype As Galaxy Z Fold 8 Sales ...
    confidence 85%

  3. Samsung Reaps Sales Boost for Galaxy Z Fold 8 from iPhone Duo Delays

    Samsung is leveraging shipping delays for the Apple iPhone Duo to drive demand for its Galaxy Z Fold 8 lineup, which includes the Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 models running Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools. Searches for Samsung foldables surged following the iPhone Duo unveiling, aiding sales of the passport-style devices. Samsung previously reported a 16 percent increase in demand for the Z Fold 8 after Apple entered the foldable market. The company also utilized a New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook in advertisements directed at Apple.

    Why it matters

    Apple's entry into the foldable market and subsequent shipping delays have altered consumer interest in high-end devices. Samsung positioned its current hardware lineup to capture buyers looking for alternatives. Reviews highlight the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra for its outdoor display, performance, and battery life.

    What is confirmed

    • Searches for Samsung foldables surged following the unveiling of the iPhone Duo.
    • Samsung previously reported a 16 percent rise in demand for the Z Fold 8 after Apple entered the foldable market.
    • Samsung used a New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook in advertisements to target Apple.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Without the iPhone Duo, Samsung's passport-style foldable would not exist.

    What to watch next

    • Official sales figures for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series
    • Apple iPhone Duo shipping updates
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. 9to5google.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 - 9to5Google
    2. arstechnica.com — Samsung all but confirms iPhone Duo is goosing Galaxy Z8 sales
    3. www.techadvisor.com — The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Is a Smash Hit. Samsung Should Thank ...
    4. www.republicworld.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra Review: A Tablet That Has ...
    confidence 90%

  4. Samsung leverages iPhone Duo delays for Galaxy Z Fold 8 growth

    Samsung is capitalizing on shipping delays for Apple's iPhone Duo to drive interest in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 9. The company previously claimed a 16 percent rise in Z Fold 8 demand following Apple's entry into the foldable market. The current product lineup includes the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8, all featuring Android 17 and Galaxy AI tools. Samsung recently used a New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook in ads to target Apple.

    Why it matters

    The competition between Samsung and Apple has shifted to foldable hardware. Samsung's strategy involves aggressive marketing and utilizing Apple's supply chain issues to maintain market share.

    What is confirmed

    • The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8 run Android 17 with Galaxy AI tools.
    • Samsung used a New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook in an advertising campaign.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 9 could crush Apple.

    What to watch next

    • Independent audit of Samsung's demand figures
    • Apple's official shipment timeline for the iPhone Duo
    • Release details for 2027 foldable models
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.sammobile.com — Samsung could crush Apple with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 9
    2. bigtimetrivia.com — Samsung's Foldables in 2026, and What Is Reported for 2027
    confidence 70%

  5. Samsung Reports Higher Demand for Galaxy Z Fold 8 Following Apple Entry

    Samsung states that demand for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 increased by 16 percent following Apple's entry into the foldable market. The company also attributes increased popularity of the device to the iPhone Duo. However, these figures are unverified claims originating directly from Samsung rather than independent audits. The broader product rollout features the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8 foldables running Android 17 with new Galaxy AI tools. Samsung previously used a New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook in an advertising campaign to position the device against Apple.

    Why it matters

    Apple entering the foldable market impacts rival Android foldable manufacturers like Samsung. While Samsung reports positive sales momentum and a 16 percent demand bump since the announcement, these numbers lack independent verification. Samsung previously ran a marketing campaign in New Zealand featuring a local real estate agent named Tim Cook to directly target Apple.

    What is confirmed

    • Samsung claims that Galaxy Z Fold 8 demand is up 16 percent since Apple announced its first foldable iPhone.
    • Samsung states that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is more popular due to the iPhone Duo.
    • Samsung promotes the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series with a New Zealand ad campaign featuring a local real estate agent named Tim Cook.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Independent audits have verified Samsung's claimed 16 percent increase in Fold 8 demand.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series features a 7.6-inch display, dual cameras, a 5000 mAh battery, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite 5 for Galaxy chip, and Android 16.

    What to watch next

    • Independent audits or sales data verifying Samsung's claimed 16 percent demand increase.
    • Further market response and sales figures for Apple's foldable iPhone.
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. time.com — How Trump’s Policies Are Testing Farmers’ Loyalty Ahead of Midterms
    2. 9to5google.com — Samsung says Galaxy Z Fold 8 is more popular thanks to iPhone Duo
    3. finance.yahoo.com — Samsung Claims Fold 8 Demand Up 16% as Apple Enters the ...
    confidence 80%

  6. Samsung Expands Fold8 Lineup as Ad Campaign Features Real Estate Agent

    Samsung promotes its Galaxy Z Fold 8 series with a New Zealand ad campaign featuring a local real estate agent named Tim Cook to position the device against Apple. The broader Galaxy Z Fold 8 rollout includes the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8 foldables equipped with Android 17, powerful processors, and new Galaxy AI tools. Unconfirmed rumors point to specific specifications such as a 7.6-inch display, dual cameras, a 5000 mAh battery, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite 5 for Galaxy chip, and Android 16.

    Why it matters

    Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series on August 7, 2026, marketing it as the world's thinnest and lightest foldable with a 7.6-inch screen and Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology supporting HDR10+ content. The marketing strategy targets Apple by leveraging a real estate agent who shares the name of Apple's chief executive officer. Concurrently, online retailers have discounted the device following promotional sales events.

    What is confirmed

    • Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8 foldables with Android 17, powerful processors, and new Galaxy AI tools.
    • Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series on August 7, 2026.
    • A New Zealand ad campaign features a real estate agent named Tim Cook promoting the Galaxy Z Fold 8 as an alternative to Apple's foldable device.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a 7.6-inch screen and Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology supporting HDR10+ content, and is marketed as the world's thinnest and lightest foldable.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a 7.6-inch display, dual camera, 5000 mAh battery, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite 5 for Galaxy, and Android 16.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to be released in the third quarter of 2026.

    What to watch next

    • Official retail release dates and pricing for the newly unveiled Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8 models.
    • Response from Apple regarding the New Zealand advertising campaign.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.forbes.com — Tim Cook - Forbes
    2. www.phonearena.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Rumored Specifications - PhoneArena
    3. www.thedailystar.net — Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8
    4. kotaku.com — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Gets Hundreds Off Again Just ... - Kotaku
    5. www.adobotech.net — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 First Impression: Is This the Fold You ...
    confidence 90%

  7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 praised by local NZ real estate agent Tim Cook

    Samsung is promoting its Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, which launched on August 7, 2026, with a local New Zealand ad campaign featuring a real estate agent named Tim Cook. The campaign positions the Z Fold 8 as a superior alternative to Apple's foldable device. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the world's thinnest and lightest foldable, with a 7.6-inch screen and Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology supporting HDR10+ content.

    Why it matters

    The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series targets Apple's entry into the foldable market. Samsung aims to outshine Apple with its latest foldable device, boasting a compact form factor and advanced features. The Z Fold 8's release comes ahead of Apple's iPhone Duo launch.

    What is confirmed

    • The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the world's thinnest and lightest foldable.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a 7.6-inch screen when opened.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology supporting HDR10+ content.
    • The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series launched on August 7, 2026.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Apple's foldable device costs $1,999.

    What to watch next

    • Apple's official response to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8
    • The release date of Apple's iPhone Duo
    • Further reviews and comparisons of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Apple's foldable device
    Sources used for this update (10)
    1. www.samsung.com — Explore the Latest Galaxy Smartphones | Samsung US
    2. www.ign.com — How the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 has been optimised for large-screen entertainment, multitasking and all-day battery life
    3. www.theverge.com — Samsung’s Z Fold 8 is hundreds off ahead of iPhone Duo launch
    4. kotaku.com — Forget the iPhone Duo, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 ... - Kotaku
    5. www.samsung.com — Shop New Samsung Releases| Samsung US | Samsung USA
    6. www.samsung.com — Contact Us | Official Samsung Support US
    7. www.pcmag.com — The Latest Samsung News and Analysis | PCMag
    8. mobilesyrup.com — Smartphones - MobileSyrup
    9. www.samsung.com — Shop and Discover | Galaxy Mobile Devices, TVs, Audio, Home...
    10. www.samsung.com — Home Electronics | Home Appliances | Mobile | Computing |
    confidence 90%

  8. Samsung uses real estate agent named Tim Cook to market Galaxy Z Fold 8

    Samsung New Zealand is running an ad campaign featuring a local real estate agent named Tim Cook who promotes the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The move targets Apple following the competitor's entry into the foldable market. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, which includes a new Ultra model and a wide variant, launched on August 7, 2026, as the first Samsung phones with Android 17 pre-installed. The campaign positions the Z Fold 8 as a superior alternative to Apple's foldable device, which reports suggest costs $1,999.

    Why it matters

    Samsung introduced the Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 at a London event on July 22, 2026. This release marked the first time the Fold series launched with two distinct variations. The marketing strategy reflects an aggressive competitive stance against Apple's recent hardware expansions.

    What is confirmed

    • The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold 8 Ultra were officially released on August 7, 2026.
    • Samsung unveiled the Z Fold 8 series on July 22, 2026, at a Galaxy Unpacked event in London.
    • The Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 are the first Samsung phones with Android 17 pre-installed.
    • The Z Fold 8 series is available in two variations: the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 with a passport-like wide screen and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.
    • A Samsung advertisement features a person named Tim Cook promoting the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Apple's foldable device is priced at $1,999.
    • Samsung flagship phones have seen a $100 price increase.

    What to watch next

    • Official pricing confirmation for the Z Fold 8 Ultra
    • Apple's official response to the Tim Cook ad campaign
    Sources used for this update (12)
    1. www.samsung.com — Mobile | TV | Home Electronics | Home Appliances - Samsung US
    2. gizmodo.com — Samsung - Gizmodo
    3. en.wikipedia.org — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 - Wikipedia
    4. www.youtube.com — Samsung Hires a “Tim Cook” to Promote the Galaxy Z Fold 8 ...
    5. www.khaleejtimes.com — Samsung launches first Intelligent Eyewear, new Galaxy Fold 8 ...
    6. www.businesstoday.in — Samsung, Latest News Samsung, CEO, Chairman of Samsung, Photos
    7. www.samsung.com — Support Home | Official Samsung Support US
    8. en.wikipedia.org — Samsung - Wikipedia
    9. www.samsungtvplus.com — Samsung TV Plus - Stream Free TV, Movies & Shows
    10. en.wikipedia.org — Samsung Electronics - Wikipedia
    11. www.bestbuy.com — Samsung Store - Best Buy
    12. news.samsung.com — Samsung U.S. Newsroom | Latest News & inspiring stories about ...
    confidence 90%

  9. Samsung uses real estate agent Tim Cook to promote Galaxy Z Fold 8

    Samsung New Zealand launched an ad campaign featuring a local real estate agent named Tim Cook, who praises the Galaxy Z Fold 8. This marketing move appears to be a jab at Apple, which recently entered the foldable phone market. The campaign aims to position the Galaxy Z Fold 8 as a superior alternative to Apple's foldable device, reportedly priced at $1,999.

    Why it matters

    The promotion comes as Apple debuts its own foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. Samsung is targeting Apple's entry into the foldable market by highlighting the benefits of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The use of a real estate agent with the same name as Apple's CEO is a clear marketing tactic to draw attention to the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

    What is confirmed

    • Samsung enlisted a real New Zealand real estate agent named Tim Cook to promote the Galaxy Z Fold 8.
    • The man in the ad is not the chief executive of Apple.
    • There are two men named Tim Cook with something to say about foldable phones right now, and only one of them works in real estate.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Apple's foldable device will retail at $1,999.

    What to watch next

    • Apple's official response to Samsung's marketing campaign
    • The release date of Apple's foldable phone
    • Reviews and comparisons of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Apple's foldable device
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.androidpolice.com — The Galaxy Z Fold 8 cured my battery anxiety in ways the Pixel 10 Pro never could
    2. tech.yahoo.com — Samsung Finds Another Tim Cook to Sell the Galaxy Z Fold 8
    3. samsung.gadgethacks.com — Samsung Found Another Tim Cook to Sell the Galaxy Z Fold 8 as ...
    4. www.europesays.com — Samsung Finds Another Tim Cook to Sell the Galaxy Z Fold 8
    5. www.it-daily.net — Samsung wirbt mit anderem Tim Cook für Falt-Handy
    6. www.pcmag.com — Samsung Reviews, News, and Deals | PCMag
    confidence 100%

  10. Samsung uses New Zealand resident named Tim Cook to mock Apple foldable

    Samsung New Zealand launched a Galaxy Z Fold 8 ad campaign featuring a real estate agent from Palmerston North named Tim Cook. The campaign claims Tim Cook switched to Samsung to poke fun at Apple following the debut of the iPhone Duo. This marketing stunt targets Apple's entry into the foldable market, specifically trolling the new foldable device which reports indicate will retail at $1,999. Samsung clarifies the man in the ad is not the chief executive of Apple.

    Why it matters

    Apple recently entered the foldable market with the iPhone Duo. This marks a shift in competition as Apple now competes directly with Samsung's established Z Fold series.

    What is confirmed

    • Apple has unveiled the iPhone Duo foldable phone.
    • Samsung New Zealand featured a man from Palmerston North named Tim Cook in a Galaxy Z Fold 8 advertisement.
    • The man in the Samsung advertisement is a real estate agent.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The iPhone Duo will retail at $1,999.

    What to watch next

    • Apple's official pricing and availability for the iPhone Duo
    • Samsung's global expansion of the Tim Cook ad campaign
    Sources used for this update (9)
    1. Apple — Apple unveils iPhone Duo
    2. TechRepublic — iPhone Duo vs. iPhone 18 Pro + iPad Mini: Can One Foldable Really Replace Both?
    3. The Verge — Samsung says ‘Tim Cook’ bought a Galaxy Fold
    4. The New York Times — I Tried Apple’s New Foldable iPhone Duo. Here’s How It Compares.
    5. Stratechery by Ben Thompson — 2026.37: Duo Threats
    6. Android Authority — Samsung gets 'Tim Cook' to praise the Galaxy Z Fold 8
    7. www.ajupress.com — Samsung finds a 'Tim Cook' who switched to Galaxy in latest Apple jab
    8. www.unilad.com — Samsung continues to troll Apple for its first foldable phone in hilarious new ad
    9. www.ibtimes.com.au — (VIDEO) Samsung Enlists a Real 'Tim Cook' From New Zealand to Troll Apple in New Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ad Campaign
    confidence 100%
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