Verizon began accepting preorders on July 22 for Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra, pairing the devices with its Simplicity Plan to reduce pricing complexity. The announcement, made by the carrier on its website, highlights a broader industry trend toward simplified billing and device financing.
The Galaxy Z Fold8, starting at $1,899.99, and the larger Z Fold8 Ultra, at $2,099.99, are designed for productivity with expansive foldable screens. Verizon is offering new customers the Fold8 for $60 per month over 48 months — $30 for the phone plus $30 for the Simplicity Plan — by applying $460 in promotional credits. The Fold8 Ultra drops to $35 per month with similar credits. Existing customers can upgrade and trade in eligible devices for up to $1,100 off, spreading the discount over 36 months on Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate plans.
The Simplicity Plan itself eschews network tiers, offering unlimited data on Verizon's 5G network for a flat $30 per month when customers enroll in Auto Pay and paper-free billing and switch from another carrier. This approach aims to eliminate the confusion of multiple data caps and speed throttles often found in competitor plans. "We've removed plan complexity to put control back in our customers' hands," the company stated in the press release.
Verizon also introduced an Ultimate Bundle: customers who buy a new Samsung phone on a payment plan or bring their own device with a new line can receive a Galaxy Watch9 and a Galaxy Tab S10 FE at no additional hardware cost, though monthly service lines for each device start at $15. The watch alone can be obtained for free via BYOD offers, with $430 in credits applied over 36 months.
The launch coincides with Verizon's expanded loyalty program, which offers monthly cash back in Verizon Dollars redeemable for devices and accessories, as well as the elimination of upgrade and activation fees. Additionally, Verizon Shine provides weekly chances to win experiences and daily prizes.
For entertainment, customers who purchase a qualifying Z Fold8 or Z Fold8 Ultra can receive the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle (with ads) for six months at no extra cost, then $10 per month thereafter.
The move is significant for the wireless industry as carriers increasingly compete on value and transparency rather than locking customers into complex contracts. By simplifying its plan structure and offering aggressive promotions on premium devices, Verizon aims to attract both new and existing customers seeking straightforward pricing. Preorders run through August 7, when the devices become widely available at Verizon stores and online.
