Samsung Electronics, a pioneer in the foldable phone market, is accelerating preparations for next-generation devices aimed at the 'post-smartphone' era. The company is focusing on developing new form factors, including AI smart glasses, Galaxy Ring 2, and rollable phones, with a goal to lead in hardware competition in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).
Last week, at the 'Galaxy Unpacked 2026' event in London, Samsung showcased its advancements in foldable phone innovation over the past seven years. The company introduced a lineup of three devices: the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8, claiming it has perfected its foldable mobile device offerings. Alongside this, Samsung unveiled its AI smart glasses, providing a blueprint for future form factors.
During a press conference on July 22, Samsung Electronics DX Division President Roh Tae-moon stated, "The foldable market has now entered a mature phase, and more companies will enter the space. However, as competition intensifies, Samsung will continue to present cutting-edge technology to secure a leading position in the global market." He emphasized that while the foldable mobile product lineup is complete, the company is also preparing for ongoing product innovation for future growth.
The first product to be revealed was the AI smart glasses. Samsung introduced its first smart glasses, expected to launch later this year. While attendees could see the product, hands-on demonstrations were limited. The design closely resembles regular eyewear, with various styles developed in collaboration with eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.
As the inaugural product, the focus is on creating 'everyday glasses' rather than emphasizing technology. Choi Jae-in, Vice President of Samsung Electronics' Mobile Experience (MX) Division XR Development Team, explained during a briefing on July 23, "Our goal is to create glasses that people want to wear at first sight and can comfortably wear all day long."
Samsung's smart glasses are not a one-off product. Choi noted, "This product is just the beginning, and we are preparing more technologies and products in the future," adding that the company has accumulated technology over several years and holds more than 200 patents. The smart glasses being unveiled will only incorporate some of the company's technologies.
Future iterations of the smart glasses will gradually integrate additional technologies, such as glasses with built-in displays. While the first generation emphasizes 'wearability,' subsequent generations will enhance AI features and technical experiences based on user feedback.
Wearable devices are also evolving. Samsung announced that it is developing a successor to the Galaxy Ring. Since the first product was launched in 2024, no follow-up models have been released, but the company is preparing a next-generation product that reflects consumer demands and new technologies. With the advancement of AI health features, the integration of the Galaxy Watch and Ring into a health management ecosystem is expected to strengthen.
Roh stated, "Various companion devices that expand the AI experience will continue to emerge, and the related market will grow. We launched the Galaxy Ring for customers who value health management features while also prioritizing fashion and style, and we will continue to develop this product line."
Development of the rollable phone is also underway, aiming for commercialization. The rollable phone features a screen that can be rolled into the body and expanded when needed, representing a different next-generation form factor compared to foldable phones.
Samsung has already secured trademarks for 'Galaxy Z Roll' and 'Galaxy Z Slide,' and Samsung Display showcased a slider display mobile prototype at MWC 2026 in Barcelona earlier this year, demonstrating its technological capabilities. While the company has not disclosed a timeline for commercialization, it has stated that it is continuously working to enhance the technology's readiness.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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