The Galaxy Z Flip 8 finally addresses what users have long complained about — the underused cover screen. For years, the display was limited to showing basic information like time or missed calls. Now, it can actually run full apps, albeit with some limitations. At this point, only 50 apps are officially supported, and there are still some bugs to work out. The screen includes a redesigned homescreen with customizable panels filled with widgets and a central panel similar to Google Pixel’s “At a Glance” feature. It shows calendar events and context-sensitive actions like “Now Nudge,” making it feel more interactive. An app drawer now opens to include Samsung apps and other services like Messages and YouTube, showing a step in the right direction for usability.
Still, not everything works as it should
Some apps are not ready for the small, foldable screen. For instance, Gemini doesn’t function correctly — it keeps opening the keyboard, making it impossible to type a prompt. This kind of issue is expected with new hardware, but it highlights that Samsung is still figuring out how to make the cover display work well. Testing and refining these apps will be important for the overall user experience.
You’ll finally get used to opening apps without unfolding the phone
The phone also introduces a “Recents” page that displays the last-used apps on the cover screen. This makes it easier to return to them quickly. It’s a subtle but significant change that could shift how users interact with their phone. In time, checking a message or watching a short video might not require unfolding the device at all.
Pricey, but a step in the right direction
Available for pre-order now at $1,199, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is an expensive device. However, the improvements to the cover display — even in their current state — show that Samsung is starting to understand the full potential of foldable technology beyond just aesthetics.
While still flawed, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 is a meaningful update that brings the cover display closer to becoming a practical feature. It reflects a shift in Samsung's design philosophy and shows that it is listening to user feedback.
9to5Google covered this development in detail. If you're curious about what else is new in the foldable space, they've also reviewed the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series and the latest Galaxy Watch models.
More updates and improvements are likely as Samsung continues to refine this technology. For now, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 stands out as a phone that's trying to better meet user needs — even if it's not there yet.