Samsung Raises Prices on Multiple Smartphone Models

According to reports from Asia Economy and Newsis, Samsung Electronics has announced price increases for several smartphones released in 2025, effective April 1, 2026. The adjustments apply to selected high-capacity models, including the Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, and Galaxy S25 Edge, marking an uncommon move as prices for older models typically decline after new product launches.

Specifically, the 512GB version of the Galaxy S25 Edge, originally launched in May 2025, will see its price rise from KRW 1.639 million (approximately $1,087) to KRW 1.749 million. The Galaxy Z Fold7, released in July 2025, will have its 512GB model increase from KRW 2.5377 million to KRW 2.6323 million, while the 1TB variant will rise from KRW 2.9337 million to KRW 3.1273 million. Meanwhile, the 512GB version of the Galaxy Z Flip7 will increase from KRW 1.6434 million to KRW 1.738 million. These adjustments represent price hikes ranging from approximately KRW 94,600 to KRW 193,600 depending on the model and configuration.

Notably, the price changes do not affect entry-level 256GB models, which typically have higher demand and lower cost pressures. In addition, standard, Plus, and Ultra variants of the Galaxy S25 series, as well as the newer Galaxy S26 lineup, remain unchanged.

Industry analysts attribute the price increases primarily to the continued rise in memory chip costs, along with exchange rate volatility and supply chain disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Historically, Samsung has tended to reflect component cost increases in the pricing of new product launches rather than adjusting existing models. This latest move highlights the growing impact of external cost pressures on pricing strategies.

Against this backdrop, market expectations are rising that upcoming models, including the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 planned for release in the second half of 2026, may also face upward price adjustments. In fact, Samsung had already implemented price increases ranging from KRW 99,000 to KRW 209,000 across different storage configurations when launching the Galaxy S26 series earlier this year.