Known formally as the ULT Tower Max, ULT Tower 7 and ULT Tower 5, the new upgright standing party speakers are designed for music lovers who want to feel every beat and combine deeper bass, higher sound pressure and deep party features to create an unforgettable experience.

First up is the ULT Tower Max which features three woofers – one in the rear and two front-facing – and delivers up to 2150 watts of output via its high-powered amplifier. There’s also four tweeters, mid-range speakers and rear woofer that all work together to deliver rich, room-filling sound with deep bass.

The ULT Tower 7, which slots in the middle, delivers powerful bass and sound pressure, with up to 420 watts of output, an IPX4 rating and up to 30 hours battery life.

Both the ULT Tower Max and ULT Tower 7 feature 360-degree Party Sound, which allows for projecting powerful audio all around the space so everyone can enjoy clear vocals and powerful bass from virtually any position around the speakers. Meanwhile there’s new, redesigned carry handles with a more comfortable grip and upgraded wheels with wider treads.

Meanwhile, the ULT Tower 5 delivers bass and sound pressure from a compact design, with up to 300 watts of output, new lighting modes and up to 20 hours of battery life.

At the heart of the new lineup is Sony’s new circular woofer design for the ULT Power Sound series lineup. The woofer works alongside the large cabinet volume and ULT Duct to, according to Sony, help each speaker reproduce deeper, more powerful bass.

Sony is yet to confirm pricing, but all three models; The ULT Tower Max, ULT Tower 7 and ULT Tower 5 will be available in South Africa from October 2026.

The RD6 is based on the M.A.P Platform, China’s first native new-energy bakkie architecture, developed from Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). The platform has been engineered specifically to combine passenger-vehicle refinement with bakkie capability.

At the top of the South African range, the Apex RD6 4WD delivers a combined 315 kW and 595 Nm, enabling a 0–100 km/h time of just 4.5 seconds with Highway Terrain (HT) tyres ideal operating conditions.

According to Geely, the system can switch between 2WD and 4WD in as little as 20 milliseconds. The bakkie has an overall length of 5,260 mm, width of 1,900 mm, height of 1,880 mm and a 3,120 mm wheelbase.

Te RD6 offers dedicated drive modes including Economy, Comfort, Sport, Sand, Mud and Off-road, while its 225 mm ground clearance and 815 mm wading depth provide the capability needed for more demanding terrain.

It also features a payload of up to 1,030 kg and towing capacity of up to 3,000 kg in the flagship model.

The RD6 features a 73 kWh battery, while the flagship Apex 4WD offers a claimed 424 km NEDC range, 390 km for the Aspire Econ 4WD and a 63 kWh battery allows 369 km for the Aspire Econ 2WD.

The Aspire comes in 3 external colors – black, white and silver and 1 interior color, in black. The Apex comes in green, blue, silver, grey and white. The interior of the Apex comes in Green or Tan and Refined Black

The Galaxy S26 FE launches on Friday, 11 September 2026 for R15 499 (128GB) and R17 999 (256GB).

In terms of style, the device borrows the same aesthetics from the standard Galaxy S26 with rounded edges and a triple camera setup at the rear and comes in a rage of colours; Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio.

At a glance, and to get the technics out of the way, the Galaxy S26 FE is powered by the Exynos 2500 processor with Android 17 and One UI. It features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz and 1,900 nits display.

For content creation and memories that are sure to last there’s a 50MP Wide, 12MP Ultra-Wide, 8MP Telephoto (3x optical zoom) and 12MP Front camera setup. The battery capacity is rated at 4,900mAh with support for 45W wired and 15W wireless charging.

FAQ:

Q: What processor does the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE use?

A: Exynos 2500 (3nm)

Q: What is the battery life and charging speed of the Galaxy S26 FE?

A: The 4,900mAh battery provides 45W fast charging, allowing up to 65% charge in around 30 minutes. 

Q: Does the Galaxy S26 FE support wireless charging?

A: Yes. It has 15W Fast Wireless Charging – Limited to Samsung or other brand smartphones with Qi wireless charging.

Q: What Galaxy AI features are included in the Galaxy S26 FE?

A: The Galaxy S26 FE is powered by the latest One UI 9, bringing a range of intuitive, context-aware Galaxy AI features including Now Brief, Now Nudge, Circle to Search with Google and Gemini Live.

Q: When does the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE go on sale?

A: 11 September 2026

Q: How much does the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE cost in South Africa?

A: R15 499 (128GB) and R17 999 (256GB)

This follows a 2025 announcement from the brand that they will be restructuring and downsizing its local dealership network from 19 down to 7 locations as part of a long-term brand realignment focusing on high-performing hubs in Gauteng, KZN and the Western Cape.

At the track experience, the brand mentioned that they are will soon be opening a floor in Sandton which perfectly positions them within Africa’s richest square mile and in front of affluent customers. The area already plays host to Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW who each boast these as their state-of-the-art flagship dealerships. So, it would only make sense for Volvo to ground themselves in the area too.

Volvo might just be a little too late to the party as Chinese giant BYD, and competitor, has already made their mark in the Sandton area with their flagship two-storey dealership on the Corner of Rivonia Road and Daisy Street.

Although not a direct competitor to Volvo, Jetour has also recently opened a flagship dealership in the Sandton area.

Demonstrating that its growth strategy is nationwide, Volvo bolstered its presence in the Western Cape that very same week by launching a state-of-the-art location in Century City.

“Cape Town’s automotive landscape is undergoing a swift evolution, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable luxury and intelligent design. Volvo Cars Century City stands at the forefront of this shift, serving as a dedicated haven for motorists seeking progressive Scandinavian engineering.” said Grant Locke, Managing Director of Volvo Cars South Africa

Lock added that additional dealership sites are currently being assessed in identified growth markets, with further announcements expected as those plans are confirmed.

To get a better understanding of what these new devices mean for local consumers, we spoke directly with Zahir Cajee, Lead for Product and Commercials at Samsung South Africa. Watch the full interview video below for an in depth look at the strategy, technology, and local rollout plans. See the full interview below.

What is Samsung’s Strategy for the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra?

Samsung has split its book style foldable lineup into two separate models to cater to different user needs.

The standard Galaxy Z Fold8 features a wider 4:3 main display aspect ratio designed for reading and content consumption. It offers a more natural, tablet like feel in the hand without the narrow cover screen seen on older models.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is aimed at power users who want maximum performance. It features a larger 8.0 inch inner screen, a titanium frame, and a 200MP camera system identical to Samsung’s ultra flagship range.

How Does Agentic AI Work on the New Galaxy Devices?

Agentic AI on One UI goes beyond standard text generation or basic voice commands. It is built to perform multi step tasks across apps automatically.

When a user receives a text message with a proposed meeting date, time, and venue, the on screen assistant recognizes the details and suggests a scheduling prompt. Tapping the prompt opens the calendar side by side in split view and populates the details without forcing the user to switch back and forth between applications.

Will Samsung’s AI Features Work with Local South African Apps?

Global platforms like Uber and Expedia integrate directly with Samsung’s AI automation engine. Local service integrations are currently in progress.

Samsung South Africa is actively working to connect on device AI capabilities with local delivery, retail, and ride hailing platforms such as Checkers Sixty60, Woolies Dash, and local Uber services. The goal is to allow users to complete full tasks, such as ordering groceries or scheduling a ride, through direct AI prompts.

How Much Do the Galaxy Z Fold8, Z Flip8 and Z Fold8 Ultra Cost in South Africa?

Local pricing for the new range reflects its premium positioning, with options available through cash purchases and network contracts.

• Galaxy Fold8 Ultra 1TB – R60,999
• Galaxy Fold8 Ultra 512TB – R50,999
• Galaxy Fold8 512GB – R45,999
• Galaxy Fold8 256GB – R40,999
• Galaxy Flip8 256GB – R26,999

Pre orders include additional value bundles, such as an R1,500 accessory voucher, a six month trial of Google AI Pro, Samsung Care+ screen protection, and 24/7 emergency support via SOS Plus.

The partnership will support co-designed learning programmes, postgraduate research and industry mentorship with the aim to build a sustainable pipeline of AI talent equipped to develop practical solutions for business and society.

The partnership brings industry, academia and cloud technology together to give students practical exposure to real-world AI challenges, which reflects Vodacom’s commitment to building a future-ready AI talent ecosystem.

This is was view of Shameel Joosub, Vodacom Group Chief Executive Officer, at the launch event.

“We are creating a direct pathway from university research to industry impact, where students work on real AI use cases and emerge ready to practise. It is about developing the next generation of AI professionals who can drive our business forward and help shape Africa’s digital future,” he said.

The Univerisity of Johannesburg’s Master’s students within the Centre for Applied Data Science are working on Vodacom-aligned research into autonomous AI systems that can help detect, analyse and respond to cyber threats across telecommunications networks.

Meanwhile Amazon Web Services plays a core role in enabling the collaboration by providing students and researchers with access to world-class cloud, data, and AI technologies such as Amazon Bedrock, Amazon Quick and Amazon Kiro.

Further research is exploring blockchain-based approaches to strengthen digital identity management and help prevent identity theft. According to Vodacom, these focus areas reflect the partnership’s ambition to tackle practical digital challenges while developing scarce AI skills.

Not only is the day all about out-in-the-sun fun, music and food, it also affords customers the chance to interact with the people behind the brand and experience some of the latest products, some that are yet to come and even see Jetour’s full customization powers in play. It really is a unique experience for customers.

While the festival was our main reason for the invitation, Jetour has some cheeky plans up their sleeve. I was part of the media and content creators cohort joining them from Johannesburg.

So they flew us in on the early hours to Durban, where we made our way to Zimbali for all the check-in formalities. Once all of that was handled, we were given the keys to the brand new Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus models to experience. For the duration of the day, I grabbed my picnic basket, the route card, my driving partner Gugu and we settled in a Dashing.  

At first look new Dashing doesn’t look like much has changed, until you get to the rear and notice the imposing quad exhaust pipe setup. And unlike the X70 Plus of yesteryear, the pipes on this refreshed Dashing have clear exhaust pipes visible, which is a welcomed affair.

Little can be noted from a noise perspective. Fortunately for us Jetour had their product specialist on hand, who graciously gave us a walk-around of the vehicle and pointed out a few other updates to the exterior.

In front, you now get distinctive red styling accents on the front nose and flanks and it features parking sensors in front too that enable Level 2 ADAS, Intelligent High and Low beams, a 540-degree panoramic view camera system.

There’s a host of new paint colour choices for the Dashing to choose from such as Onyx Black, Slate Grey, Forest Green, Ash Grey, Crimson Red and Glacier White.

When you step inside, the Dashing now features an eight-speaker Sony audio system, privacy glass, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic glass sunroof and heated and ventilated seats on the Prime version we experienced.

The X70 Plus also receives noticeable improvements including, a redesigned front grille with exterior accents in brushed aluminium, new 19-inch alloy wheels, heated and ventilated front seats (on the Prime version), dual-zone climate control and engine start/stop technologies. And the same advanced safety enhancements as the new Dashing.

Now that we’ve got all the good stuff out of the way, Jetour planned for us to explore a bit of Durban coastal living before we make our way to the main event. Once we settled into our vehicles, we made our way to The Pearls Mall in Umhlanga for sightseeing (fellow content creators appreciated this), followed by a Coffee stop at Plato.

We skipped the coffee stop part as we wanted to capture content with the vehicles, and then we made our way to the event venue, The Manor House. The long stretch from Umhlanga to the event venue allowed us to get a proper feel of the updated 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers 125kW and 270Nm of torque.

According to Jetour, the new engine is engineered to be far more responsive, result in stronger performance, improved efficiency and a more refined driving experience. During our time the drive was certainly more refined, and a tad responsive. But some of the nuances when parking or maneuvering at incredibly low speeds that came through in the previous iteration were still there. We’ll have to see how it does when we have it for longer.

The left turn out of all of this was the good news of the new product introductions and the fact that pricing for each model is about R10 000 cheaper than the pre-improvement versions.

Once we reached the event venue we submerged ourselves in the Jetour experience. Jetour took the opportunity to introduce the very same models we were sampling today to their customers and dealers. This was followed up by a reveal of a few custom models that Jetour has spent some considerable time customizing. On display and at work was the two i-DM models, the T1 and T2 PHEVs.

The T1 PHEV caught my attention as it was powering a coffee machine that was on service for the day. This perfectly showcased the V2L technology of the vehicle and what it can do.

The music was incredible, the hospitality for the books and food was pure festival goodness.

The Jetour Dashing is priced from R429 900.

The Jetour X70Plus is priced from R444 900

At a recent exclusive Unpacked July 2026 briefing, Samsung South Africa unveiled its next-generation foldable ecosystem: the Galaxy Z Flip8, the Galaxy Z Fold8, and the debut Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, accompanied by the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2.

To unpack the hardware innovations, pricing strategy, and the role of agentic AI in Mzansi, we sat down with Zahir Cajee, Lead for Product and Commercial at Samsung South Africa.

1. Galaxy Z Fold8 & Z Fold8 Ultra: Redefining Big-Screen Productivity

Samsung’s strategy for its book-style foldables introduces two distinct form factors designed around different user behaviors.

Comparison: Galaxy Z Fold8 vs. Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra

Key Engineering & Display Advances

• Content-Native Display Ratio: The Z Fold8 features a 4:3 inner aspect ratio (7.6 inches) paired with a 10:16 cover screen. This setup minimizes letterboxing for e-readers, video streams, and split-screen documents.
• FlexTitanium Protection: Both foldables integrate a high-strength titanium alloy film directly underneath the OLED panel, backed by a structural titanium support plate. This layer reinforces structural integrity and mitigates crease visibility over hundreds of thousands of fold cycles.
• ProVisual Engine & 8K Editing: The Z Fold8 Ultra leverages an upgraded NPU and Samsung’s ProVisual Engine. This pipeline supports enhanced nightography video and provides the processing overhead to record and edit 8K videos directly on the 8-inch canvas.

“The Fold8 Ultra is built for power users who want the top-tier 200MP camera system, a titanium frame, and zero specs sacrificed. Meanwhile, the standard Fold8 captures a new audience who found previous fold designs too narrow and want a portable, Kindle-like reading and browsing experience.”

— Zahir Cajee, Lead for Product & Commercial, Samsung SA

2. Galaxy Z Flip8: Pocketability Meets Pro Photography

Designed for creators and lifestyle users who prioritise compact portability, the Galaxy Z Flip8 delivers significant structural and thermal enhancements while remaining the entry point to the foldable lineup.

• Dimensions & Weight: Measures 6.1 mm thin when unfolded and weighs 180 grams—making it 13.1% thinner and nearly 4% lighter than its predecessor.
• Displays: Features a 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED inner panel (120Hz, 2,600 nits peak brightness) and a 4.1-inch Super AMOLED Flex Window cover screen wrapped in Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
• Dual 50MP Cameras: Equipped with dual 50MP sensors (wide and ultra-wide) supporting Dual Recording to capture front and rear video feeds simultaneously.
• Battery & Fast Charging: Houses a 4,800 mAh battery supporting up to 26 hours of video playback, 45W wired charging (0 to 63% in 30 minutes), and 10W wireless charging.
• South Africa Pricing: Starts at R26,999 for the 256GB model.

3. Beyond Simple Prompts: Agentic AI in Action

With One UI, Samsung introduces on-screen agentic task automation, extending across more than 40 system and third-party applications. Unlike basic text-generating AI, agentic AI actively interprets context and performs multi-step actions across apps without forcing you to switch screens.

Real-World Workflow: Multi-Step Automation via “Now Nudge”

Imagine a colleague sends you a chat message saying: “Can we meet this Thursday at 08:00 AM at the Sandton Convention Centre?”

Here is how the Galaxy Z Fold8 automates this workflow:

1. Context Detection: On-device AI recognizes the date, time, and location mentioned in the incoming text message.
2. Now Nudge Trigger: A subtle visual prompt appears on screen asking if you want to create a calendar entry.
3. Split-Screen Execution: Tapping the nudge opens your Calendar side-by-side with your chat app using the Fold’s split view.
4. Automated Entry: Event details are populated automatically into your schedule—allowing you to confirm and save without leaving the conversation.

How To Automate Travel and Booking Workflows

1. Spot Content: While browsing social media or web pages (e.g., viewing a reel of a travel destination), trigger the on-screen AI assistant.
2. Contextual Action: The system identifies destination details and offers direct booking prompts via integrated partner services.
3. Automated Transaction: Specify parameters (e.g., “Book for four adults in September”), and the agent handles flight queries, shuttle arrangements, and itinerary creation within a single interface.

Local Ecosystem Integration in South Africa

While global platforms like Expedia and Uber integrate directly with the agentic engine, Samsung South Africa is actively working to bring local service providers into the fold.

“The AI capability is ready, but full agentic execution depends on local integration. We are actively working toward connecting on-device AI with local delivery, retail, and ride-hailing services like Checkers Sixty60, Woolies Dash, and Uber SA so users can complete end-to-end tasks like restocking a fridge or ordering a ride, straight from an AI prompt.”

— Zahir Cajee

4. Galaxy Watch9 & Watch Ultra 2: Next-Gen Wearables

Alongside the smartphone lineup, Samsung unveiled two updated smartwatches running on the Snapdragon Wear Elite processor and focused on holistic wellness metrics.

5. Local Availability, Pre-Orders, and Value Offers

Color Palette Options

• Universal Colors: Cream, Graphite
• Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra: Violet Shadow
• Galaxy Z Fold8: Lavender, Pistachio
• Galaxy Z Flip8: Pink, Mint

Exclusive Pre-Order Packages in South Africa

For South African consumers purchasing at launch, Samsung has bundled several promotional offers:

• R1,500 Accessory Voucher: Redoable in-store or online for protective cases, chargers, or official accessories.
• Google AI Pro Trial: 6 months of complimentary access to Google’s premium AI tier (valued at R2,500).
• Samsung Care+ Coverage: Options including screen repair and battery replacement coverage.
• SOS Plus Integration: 24/7 medical and emergency response support included with flagship purchases.

The lineup also includes Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, which brings Galaxy’s renowned Ultra standard to foldables with maximum productivity and content creation in a larger workspace.

Galaxy Z Flip8 — the sleekest one yet — was built for expression and quick interaction on the go. Built on seven generations of foldable innovation and consumer insight, the new Galaxy Z series gives users more choice than ever, with three distinct experiences engineered to fit different needs.

Galaxy AI has been optimised for each of these form factors. Across the lineup, every insight feels more actionable and every action feels more connected. Multitasking is easier on the larger screens of Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, while Galaxy Z Flip8’s AI-native FlexWindow keeps relevant information and shortcuts within reach. And with partner artificial intelligence (AI) experiences such as Gemini Intelligence , Galaxy gives users even more ways to get things done in fewer steps — with transparency, privacy and user control built in.

“As AI becomes more agentic, mobile devices will become the most personal entry point to experiences that understand and adapt to each user,” said TM Roh, Chief Executive Officer, President and Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “By setting a new standard for foldables, we are once again advancing the premium mobile experience and opening the next era of intelligence to more people.”

The All-New Galaxy Z Fold8: A New Galaxy Fold Experience for Everyday Immersion

Galaxy Z Fold8 is reimagined for users who want a foldable that feels natural in the moments when curiosity turns into deeper discovery. Galaxy Z Fold8 introduces a form factor designed to move easily from quick interactions on the cover screen to deeper viewing, reading and gaming on the main display. With intuitive display ratios and long-lasting performance, Galaxy Z Fold8 makes it easier to get the most out of the content, stories and ideas that matter.

Built for Discovery

Galaxy Z Fold8’s display ratios are designed around the way people naturally consume content throughout the day. By adapting the screen to the content, Galaxy Z Fold8 creates a more immersive experience whether users are browsing, watching, reading or gaming. At just 201 g, Galaxy Fold8 is Samsung’s lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet. Despite its lightweight design, it combines the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy with a larger 4,800mAh battery , delivering smooth, responsive performance and lasting power so users can stay immersed longer.

• When folded, the 10:16 cover screen5 feels familiar and comfortable for the short moments people return to most often, such as messaging, social updates, browsing and short-form video.
• When unfolded, the 4:3 main display creates a larger canvas that helps users lose themselves in games and films.
• When rotated, the same display ratio becomes naturally suited to reading, giving users a more comfortable way to settle into articles, e-books and long-form content without carrying another device.
• Together, these display ratios are designed around the way people naturally consume content, helping Galaxy Z Fold8 feel more immersive whether users are quickly checking in or settling in for longer sessions.

A Display Engineered from the Inside Out

Across the new Galaxy Z series, Samsung’s display engineering expertise serves as the foundation for a more refined foldable experience, supporting slimmer designs, greater durability and more seamless viewing.

• Samsung’s new Flex Titanium technology introduces a titanium-based display structure designed to help make foldables thinner while maintaining durability. Combining a titanium-alloy film with an enhanced titanium plate, Flex Titanium helps strengthen display support, absorb pressure and impact, and reduce crease visibility over time. This structure also refines the way the device opens, balancing hinge mechanics, display tension and magnetic force to make unfolding feel smoother, lighter and more natural.
• With up to 3,000 nits of brightness, Vision Booster and a low-reflection display finish, the main screen stays vivid and easy to see even in outdoor settings.

A Clear and Versatile Camera Experience

Galaxy Z Fold8 is designed to help users capture and share the moments that catch their attention. Whether it’s a sweeping landscape, a group shot or a spontaneous moment on the move, Galaxy Z Fold8 makes everyday photography and video feel easier to capture, edit and share.

• Dual 50 MP cameras deliver consistent high-resolution detail across wide and ultra-wide perspectives, helping preserve image quality across different scenes and shooting conditions.
• Dual Recording lets users capture both sides of the moment while previewing themselves through the cover screen, making reactions and shared experiences easier to frame.
• My FanCam automatically tracks a selected subject and reframes footage into a preferred aspect ratio, turning dynamic scenes into social-ready videos with less manual editing.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra: The Ultra Foldable Built for Maximum Productivity

Ultra represents Galaxy’s highest standard for performance, capability and innovation. With Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, that standard meets Samsung’s most advanced foldable design. Its expansive 8-inch main display opens up a productive workspace for multitasking, while its advanced camera system and long-lasting battery help users create throughout the day. All of this comes in Galaxy’s slimmest Z Fold design yet — measuring just 4.1 mm when unfolded and weighs 215 g,1 it pushes the standard for productivity on the go.

Professional-Grade Creativity with an Ultra-Level Camera System

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is built to give creators more freedom from capture to edit, with an Ultra-level camera system and creative tools that make high-quality content easier to produce from one device.

• The 200 MP main camera system captures rich, detailed photos with greater clarity, and is now enhanced with High Dynamic Range (HDR) capability in 200 MP mode for more true-to-life images7.
• A new 50 MP ultra-wide camera brings greater detail and clarity to wider scenes and macro shots, giving users more flexibility when capturing landscapes, interiors, group shots and close-up details
• Improved Nightography7 helps photos and videos look brighter and clearer in low light, so users can capture standout moments even in challenging lighting conditions.
• For advanced creators, 8K video recording through the new APV codec gives users greater flexibility and quality for editing and production workflows, while Cine LUT adds cinematic colour and tone control directly from a mobile device.

Power, Battery and Cooling Built for All-Day Productivity

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is engineered to stay fast, responsive and reliable through the most demanding workloads, from heavier multitasking and content creation to AI-powered workflows.

• With Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy3 at its core, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra delivers the performance users need to switch between apps, work across a larger screen and keep demanding tasks moving smoothly.
• A larger 5,000 mAh battery helps users stay productive for longer, supporting a full day of work, creation and entertainment in a slimmer foldable design.
• Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra introduces a new dual-path charging architecture with 45 W fast charging, helping distribute power more efficiently across the battery system for faster, more stable and reliable charging throughout the day.
• Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra uses an expanded graphite cooling structure engineered for improved thermal conductivity, helping dissipate heat more effectively and keep the device responsive during demanding tasks .

Galaxy Z Flip8: Samsung’s Sleekest, Most Expressive AI-Native Flip Experience

Galaxy Z Flip8 is built for users who want their phone to feel as dynamic as they are. Designed around quick interactions, personal expression and AI-native experiences, Galaxy Z Flip8 brings the power of Galaxy AI closer to everyday moments through a reimagined FlexWindow and uniquely flexible Flip form factor. Weighing just 180 g1 and with a thickness of only 6.1 mm, Samsung’s slimmest and lightest Flip brings information, actions and creativity closer to everyday moments.

A Smarter, More Intuitive FlexWindow Experience

Galaxy Z Flip8 reimagines the FlexWindow as an AI-native everyday interface, bringing information, actions and assistance closer to the moments when users need them most.

• The new FlexWindow brings apps, insights and actions directly to the cover screen, helping users access information, AI-powered features and connected tasks in fewer steps.
• Now Brief on FlexWindow home brings timely insights and next steps, helping users move from glanceable information to action at the right moment.
• Galaxy Z Flip8 also makes automation through Gemini Intelligence easier to access from the FlexWindow,10 allowing users to complete connected actions through side-key activation or natural voice requests.

FlexCam Unlocks a More Expressive Flip Selfie Experience

Galaxy Z Flip8 enhances Samsung’s signature Flip camera experience, turning everyday moments into more expressive content through flexible shooting angles, real-time previews and Flip-only creative experiences. From hands-free shooting and real-time preview to cover-screen selfie videos and Flip-only mirror selfies, Galaxy Z Flip8 helps users create, check and share polished moments without setting up extra equipment.

• A 50 MP camera with ProVisual Engine delivers Galaxy Z Flip’s most advanced selfie experience, helping users capture detailed portraits and everyday shots with natural skin tones, dynamic bokeh effects and standout detail.
• Flex Mode makes hands-free shooting easy from a wide range of angles, while Camcorder Grip with Zoom Rocker provides a more comfortable, stable hold when capturing dynamic shots on the move.
• Super Steady — now with a Horizontal Lock option — helps keep footage smooth and consistently framed, whether filming action-filled moments or on-the-go selfie videos.
• FlipShot lets users personalise the FlexWindow and capture more expressive mirror selfies, while Mirror view gives users a realistic mirror-like view for quick look checks before taking a photo or heading out .

A New Class of Agentic Experiences Optimised for Foldables

As the most personal device people carry, the phone has become the primary entry point where AI meets users — and the new Galaxy Z series sets the tone for the next generation of Samsung’s mobile AI experiences. Galaxy AI now works across more apps and services, with experiences optimised for foldable form factors. By understanding what matters to each user and helping turn insights into action, Galaxy AI becomes more personal, proactive and useful throughout the day.

• Now Brief helps users stay informed with personalised insights tailored to their routines, interests and daily needs through expanded scenarios, customisable briefing cards and personalised recommendations. It now also surfaces security and privacy insights, helping users stay on top of potential risks and protective actions.
• Now Nudge helps turn insights into action. When plans begin to take shape in a conversation, AI can surface relevant next steps such as checking a schedule, finding a place or saving a location. On foldables, users can continue the conversation side by side on larger displays.
• Gemini Intelligence helps users move from request to result with fewer steps. Users can simply describe what they need or even add screen or image context. App automation can now work across 40+ supported apps and services, with capabilities ranging from looking up tickets to finding a nearby restaurant and making a reservation. With Gemini Notebook, users can bring together notes, images, recordings, files and documents in one persistent workspace to collect, organise and develop their ideas. Drag-and-drop support in Split view makes the workflow even more intuitive, allowing users to easily add multiple files and images and turn their content into audio overviews, infographics, reports, meeting recaps, visual summaries, documents and more.
• AI experiences become more connected and contextual when the new Galaxy Z series is connected with Galaxy Watch Ultra2, Galaxy Watch9 series and even upcoming Intelligent Eyewear. From wellness insights to daily routines and connected actions, Galaxy AI helps users move more seamlessly between devices with timely personalised support throughout the day.

Together, these experiences show how Galaxy AI is becoming a more capable and proactive companion, helping users accomplish more with less effort. Across the lineup, foldable form factors make these experiences easier to access throughout the day.

Security and Privacy Built Into the Experience

As AI becomes more personal and agentic, trust continues to be a critical foundation of the experience. Users need to know how their data is used, understand what AI is doing on their behalf and stay in control of the choices that shape their experience. With the new Galaxy Z series, Samsung builds that trust into the device from the start, helping users keep personal data secure while giving them transparency, choice and control over how their information is used.

Samsung Knox protects every Galaxy device from the chip up, with a multi-layered approach that includes on-device personalisation and user-controlled cloud processing, as well as future-ready protections such as ecosystem-wide protection through Samsung Knox Matrix. For on-device AI, Personal Data Engine (PDE) enables context-aware, personalised AI experiences. To protect PDE, Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments, while Knox Vault adds a tamper-resistant physical layer for sensitive information . These system-level protections work together with Advanced Intelligence settings and Personal Data Intelligence to help users control how AI features manage and use personal data.

One UI 9.0 also introduces a new AI Assistant Activity dashboard, giving users a centralised view of AI automations running on their behalf. Instead of moving across multiple apps and services to understand what happened, users can review AI actions in one place and navigate directly to the relevant agent for additional context and settings. The Z8 series also brings enhanced Privacy Alerts that proactively notify users about potential privacy risks, including unnecessary attempts to access background permissions, helping them respond before those risks become invisible.

These updates build on Galaxy’s existing security and privacy portfolio which includes Auto Blocker, Theft Protection, Private Sharing, Secure Wi-Fi and more. Together, these advancements help users take a more active role in managing personal data and AI activities, with transparency, clearer choices and stronger protections at the core of their experience — helping ensure that more personal AI experiences remain grounded in trust.

Getting Started with the New Galaxy Z Series

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8 and Flip8 are available for pre-order in select markets starting today. All models are available in Graphite and Cream, with Violet Shadow exclusive to Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Lavender to Galaxy Z Fold8 and Pink to Galaxy Z Flip8. Colours available online only include Green Shadow for Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Pistachio for Galaxy Z Fold8 and Mint for Galaxy Z Flip8.

The new Galaxy Z series will bring the benefits of advanced AI closer to users’ daily lives by providing a 6-month free trial of Google AI Pro , including 5 TB of cloud storage — equivalent to $19.99 per month. With the expanded access to Google’s most capable AI models, users can boost their productivity and creativity on the foldable screen anytime they want.

Switching to Galaxy is now easier than ever, thanks to a more seamless migration experience across a wider range of devices . With the updated Smart Switch, iOS users can scan a QR code on their current devices and wirelessly transfer data without downloading additional apps. Smart Switch can also bring over additional types of data including password and passkeys, call history, accessibility settings, eSIM data and more, helping reduce the time needed to set up a new device. And with Quick Share’s new compatibility with AirDrop , sharing files between iOS and Galaxy devices is now seamless in both directions.

To give users peace of mind after upgrading, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive protection with fast repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty coverage and certified expert support at home and abroad, making it easier to stay covered wherever life takes them. Customers who purchase a new Galaxy foldable on Samsung.com and enroll in a monthly Samsung Care+ plan can save up to 25% on their monthly premiums . With One UI 9, the new Warranty and care settings hub also makes it easy to enroll in, access and manage Samsung Care+, alongside warranty information, self-diagnostics, repair requests and remote support — all from one convenient place on the device.

Pricing for the New Galaxy Z8 Series

The Galaxy Z8 series is available for pre-order from 22 July to 12 August 2026, at these recommended retail prices ;

Galaxy Fold8 Ultra 1TB – R60,999
Galaxy Fold8 Ultra 512TB – R50,999
Galaxy Fold8 512GB – R45,999
Galaxy Fold8 256GB – R40,999
Galaxy Flip8 256GB – R26,999

Pre-order now and get free accessories worth up to R1,500 , free Samsung SOS+ access for 12 months , as well as six months of Google AI Pro for free (worth over R2,500)

What I’m really getting to is that the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is an unapologetic powerhouse. Let’s get into why.

Let’s start with the looks. Samsung has gone back to an aluminium body for the Galaxy S26 range. It may read like a step backward on paper, but once you hold it in your hands, only then will you realise that it isn’t. There are benefits for the tech too. Firstly, aluminium dissipates heat a lot quicker than titanium and, when paired with the vapor chamber, prevents the device from getting heated under stress. Secondly, it handles anodization better compared to the PVD coating titanium needs. And it shows in the way its colours pop.

Speaking of colours, you get a range of them too. There’s Cobalt Violet (the one I tested), Sky Blue, White, Black and two other Samsung online exclusive tones; Pink Gold and Silve Shadow.

Earlier I mentioned the feel of the device in your hands. Here, Samsung has finally fixed those sharp, palm-digging corners I used to hate. The rounded edges are a subtle change, but they change how the phone feels entirely. The hand feel is much thinner and easier to manage in one hand. It feels nice and confident and after just one week of using the device (without a cover, I might add), it feels so natural.

The camera array around the back still sticks out and causes the phone to rock a bit when lying flat on a table or any surface. It’s worth a mention, but that’s one ergonomic compromise that’s been around for years, even with other branded devices.

The screen up front gets a Corning Gorilla Armor 2 layer mixed with ceramic for better protection and glare reduction. The rear also gets Gorilla Glass Victus 2.  As drop tests usually go, I fortunately didn’t have the stomach to deliberately drop the phone, but it picked up exactly zero micro-scratches over the two months of accompanying me on a rugged off-road adventure from Johannesburg to Durban, the Midlands, Sani Pass, Lesotho, Barckley East, Graaff Reinet and Gqeberha. My backpack had everything in it. And I mean everything from keys, charging cables, snacks, a charging brick, cameras and tripods.

In Lesotho we were lucky enough to come across snow. The Galaxy S26 Ultra holds its IP68 rating, which greenlights it for accidental dops in 1.5m of water for 30 minutes. The reassurance came in handy in these conditions.

Then there’s the S Pen which lives in the bottom left corner inside of the device. It feels much thinner and more comfortable with a curved end that sits flush against the new body. Functionality on the pen hasn’t changed much but it’s still the best stylus on any phone by far. You can use it to scribble, draw, edit pictures and make notes on the fly.

The screen itself is a gorgeous 6.9-inch flat Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2x panel with QHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Even when I spent my days outside, the Peak HDR brightness bumped up to 2500 nits and I never had to squint when sun was too bright.

The one standout feature is the Privacy Display built straight into the hardware rather than the aftermarket films you’d find elsewhere. It allowed me to hide the screen from whoever was sitting right next to me. I’ve used it countless times when I’m on a flight and even at events when I really need to do something urgent and sensitive. Sometimes when I had to open my X app because you never know what the timeline will surprise you with.

Samsung built the Privacy Display at the sub-pixel level by combining wide-view OLED pixels with narrow-beam pixel arrays. When you switch it on, the wide-view pixels turn off. Anyone looking at the screen from an angle of more than 45 degrees sees a dim, near-black display, while the person viewing it head-on can still see everything clearly. But Samsung didn’t stop there. Privacy Display has a bunch of granular controls too that allow you to either leave it on at all time or set it to specific apps or notifications.

When I first heard of the feature at launch, I was very sceptical. That’s until I got to use it and got surprised looks from the people around me.

Let’s talk about that camera array. Here you get a quad-camera layout that looks heavily familiar. I spent most of my time testing it our properly during our cross-province trek where the aperture and processing changes add up to the real gains. The main 200-megapixel main sensor does the heavy work. It features a new f/1.4 aperture, up from f/1.7 seen on last year’s Galaxy S device. The wider aperture pulls in more light which comes in handy when capturing content at night or in any low-light environment like a restaurant, really.

Samsung has gotten me used to saying the word Nightography more than I should have. It sticks, to be honest. Not just in the saying, but because that f/1.4 main lens produces impressive results in terms of colour realism and surface details.  I used it quite extensively at night during the trip, and before that I’d use it at the balcony at work when I’m working late nights. What I see from up here is the beautiful Sandton skyline with Hotel Sky and The Leonardo taking centre stage. The image comes out cleaner with the bright points of distant neon lights and windows staying crisp.

That doesn’t mean it doesn’t perform during daylight. The very same 200-megapixel sensor defaults to a 12-megapixel shot that’s incredibly clean, crisp and detailed. You can still switch over to the 200-megapixel setup though, which gives off even more detailed results that you can crop into with ease. What I did notice though is that the 200-megapixel results carry a little bit of noise.

If you want to take things further, the two telephoto lenses are where the fun is at. Here you get the 3x lens which works wonders in portraits and quick shots for social media use. The 5x telephoto lens is the masterpiece as it pushes its aperture wider. Elsewhere there’s 100x Space Zoom and it’s the part trick that really gets things going. It works fine for reading far-off signage and bringing objects closer that the naked eye wouldn’t normally see. In front the camera gets a wider frame which makes it easy to squeeze in three friends into a frame. Or in my case, a vehicle in my background. The details are good and the skin tones are handled with immense clarity too.

Then there’s the Horizon Lock video mode which genuinely impresses. At one press of a button, your video picture and subject matter remains in focus regardless of whatever sudden movements or shakes your hands make.

Underneath all that glass and aluminium you’ll find the highly customized Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5  for Galaxy silicon which handles everything you throw at it whether its AI through Gemini, capturing 8K content on the go, with buttery smooth agility without a stutter. For those into specifics, you get fast UFS 4.0 storage and either 12 GB or 16 GB of RAM to go with it. All of that allows apps to snap open at the tap and the camera to open up instantly ready to capture in 8K.  

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra ships running Android 16 with One UI 8.5 baked on top. With it comes Google’s seven years of major OS and security updates, which means your phone is covered for the long haul. The UI itself genuinely isn’t bad. It’s most probably one of the only Android UI’s that I really like. I do hope Samsung updates this over time.

The battery remains the trusted 5000 mAh, the same capacity as previous Ultra models. On paper, that may seem modest, but in everyday use it delivers solid performance. On a heavy day of countless emails, document editing, picture and video editing, 5G use and maps, I averaged between 6 and 7 hours of screen-on time and I’d only charge it at night.  The welcome addition of 60W wired charging also reduces the wait when you need to top it up before heading out. To put it into perspective, it would take me about 50 minutes to charge the device from near dead to full. Meanwhile, wireless charging has been bumped up to 25W on the Qi 2.2 standard. Magsafe doesn’t come standard here and you’d have to buy a specific magnet-equipped case which is a bit a let-down.

The big question remains, should you buy yourself the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?  In the grand scheme of things, Samsung has establish the Ultra formula and given us a device that’s been improved year-on-year without fail. You get an improved aluminium frame, a faster chipset and clever baked-in tech like that Privacy Display and AI features that push the envelope even further. And after spending months with the phone, I can confidently say if you want a device that does everything, this is definitely the one to get.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is priced from R30 999.

It usually starts with a smile from the finance desk and a number that suddenly feels just manageable enough. You’re standing on a dealership floor, eyeing a shiny new car that’s just beyond your budget. Then the finance consultant offers a solution: “What if I could cut your monthly instalment by R900?”

Suddenly, the deal looks possible. The monthly repayment drops, your budget gets some breathing room, and you’re already imagining that first drive home.

The problem? The catch is simple: that lower instalment is only possible because part of the debt has been parked for later. A balloon payment is effectively a debt you’ve pushed into the future, and eventually the bill comes due.

In South Africa’s tough economic climate, more motorists are turning to balloon payments to make vehicle ownership attainable. Used carefully, they can be a useful finance tool. Used without a plan, they can leave buyers facing a significant financial hurdle at the end of their agreement.

The Illusion of the Cheaper Car

A balloon payment allows you to pay lower monthly instalments during the finance term in exchange for a larger lump-sum payment at the end.

Let’s look at how the numbers play out. If you buy a car for R350,000 financed over 60 months at an interest rate of 11.5%, your choices look like this:

• Without a balloon payment: You pay roughly R7,700 a month. At the end of five years, the car is yours, free and clear. Total cost: around R462,000.
• With a 20% balloon payment: Your monthly instalment drops to about R6,830. That puts an extra R870 back into your pocket every month. But at the end of the five years, you suddenly owe a lump sum of R70,000. Total cost: around R480,000.

While saving R870 a month helps your current cash flow, the overall cost of the car gets more expensive. A lump sum due five years down the line can feel abstract and distant, until it is suddenly due next month.

“It is important that the balloon payment conversation happens long before the final statement arrives,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank. “Balloon payments can give consumers more flexibility when it comes to their monthly budget, but it is critical to factor into your long-term budgeting. Consumers who understand what’s coming and plan accordingly are in a far stronger position than those who are surprised by it.”

Where Drivers Trip Up

Typically, motorists run into trouble in one of two places.

The first mistake happens years before the due date, pretending the balloon payment doesn’t exist. If you know you owe R70,000 in five years, you need to plan for it from day one. Whether you intend to refinance the amount, trade the car in, or pay it off in cash, you need a strategy.

The second mistake is driven by fear. When the five years are up and that massive bill arrives, many people simply freeze. The instinct when you cannot pay is to go quiet, ignore the emails, and hope the problem goes away.

It is an understandable human reaction, but silence makes a tough situation much worse. A missed payment does not mean repossession is imminent. Banks have processes for this because life happens, and they would honestly rather see you keep the car.

“Silence is the one thing that limits what we can do to help. When a consumer reaches out early, even just to say they’re concerned about an upcoming balloon payment, we have far more room to work with them,” says Gaoaketse.

Four Steps to Take Control

If that final balloon payment is approaching and you’re unsure how you’ll pay it:

• Call your bank early: Do not wait for the final statement or a formal demand. The earlier you start talking, the more options you will have.
• Be completely honest: Lay your financial cards on the table. A lender can only build a realistic solution if they know your actual situation.
• Ask to restructure the debt: You don’t necessarily need to find R70,000 overnight. You can often refinance the balloon amount into a new, smaller monthly loan.
• Be proactive: Taking the initiative shows the bank you want to solve the problem, which always works in your favour.

Moving Forward Together

It is easy to view banks as the enemy when money gets tight but keeping you on the road and financially stable is actually a shared goal. Repossession is costly and time-consuming for lenders too. In most cases, it remains a last resort rather than a first response.

Balloon payments are not inherently good or bad; they are just a tool. If you use them wisely, they offer great flexibility. A balloon payment should never be a surprise. If yours is approaching and you’re not prepared, the difference between control and panic isn’t money; it’s how early you act.

For more information on vehicle finance options and managing your accounts, visit www.wesbank.co.za.

Getting that SMS saying your vehicle finance has been approved is a massive relief. For a moment, the stress evaporates, and you can practically smell that new-car scent. But as any seasoned driver will tell you, getting the green light from the bank is actually where the real work begins.

Approval doesn’t mean a deal is right for your wallet; it just means you passed the bank’s minimum test. In today’s tough economic climate, with the cost of living putting the squeeze on household budgets, it is incredibly easy to overcommit.

Too many South Africans fall into the trap of looking only at the monthly instalment. It’s a dangerous way to shop, because the total cost of that contract often tells a completely different, and much more expensive, story.

“For many South African’s purchasing a car is one of the most important financial commitments they will make. It’s therefore important that you go in fully aware of what you are committing to. From the monthly instalment to insurance and all points in between,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank.

Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you can answer these five important questions.

1. Is the interest rate fixed or variable?

This choice will determine how exposed your repayments are to future interest rate changes. A fixed rate stays the same for the whole loan term, meaning your budget is predictable. A variable rate moves up and down with the prime lending rate. If rates fall, your pocket gets some relief; if they rise, your monthly repayments get more expensive. Neither option is automatically better…

2. Does this deal include a balloon payment, and do I have a plan to settle it?

A balloon payment can reduce your monthly instalment by deferring a portion of the vehicle’s cost to the end of the agreement. While this can improve affordability in the short term, buyers need a clear plan for settling the amount when it becomes due. However, when the contract ends, that massive lump sum is suddenly due all at once. If you don’t have the cash sitting in the bank to pay it off, you’ll be forced to refinance it. That means taking out a whole new loan, with new interest, for a car that is already five or six years old.

3. What is the total repayment amount over the full loan term?

Loan terms usually stretch between 60 and 72 months. A longer loan term may reduce your monthly instalment, but it can significantly increase the total amount of interest paid over the life of the agreement. That’s why it’s important to compare the total repayment amount, not just the monthly figure. Even a relatively small reduction in your monthly instalment can result in thousands of rand in additional interest over the life of the agreement.

4. What are the early settlement terms?

Life changes fast. You might win the lottery, get a major promotion, or need to sell the car unexpectedly. If you want to pay off your loan early, you need to know what it will cost you. Some agreements carry specific fees or notice periods for early settlement. On the flip side, you also need to know the consequences of falling behind. Missing a payment does more than just trigger penalty fees; it can damage your credit record and make it harder to access credit in future.

5. Have I budgeted for insurance, fuel, and running costs?

This is where many first-time buyers get caught out. The car payment is just one piece of the puzzle.

“Too often, consumers focus on whether they can afford the monthly repayment rather than whether they can afford the vehicle,” says Gaoaketse. “The instalment is one line item. Insurance, fuel, maintenance, and tyres are not optional extras, they are part of the true cost of ownership, and they need to feature in your budget from day one.”

Conclusion

Don’t let the excitement of a new ride cloud your financial judgment. If you are sitting with a vehicle finance agreement in front of you, take a breath, step back, and make sure you have the answers to these five critical questions.

The best vehicle finance agreement is not the one with the lowest monthly instalment, but the one you fully understand before signing. Asking these questions upfront can help ensure your next vehicle fits both your lifestyle and your long-term budget.

Visit www.wesbank.co.za to learn more about vehicle finance solutions and make a more informed purchasing decision.