Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 designer on foldable future and phone design
Hubert Lee, Samsung's executive vice-president and head of mobile experience design, discussed the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the future of smartphones in an exclusive interview with Monocle. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 introduces a shorter and wider form factor when closed, opening to a tablet with a 4:3 screen ratio similar to the iPad mini. Lee cited the passport as inspiration for the one-handed usability. He emphasized that the design aims for clean, simple, and modern aesthetics, with flatter sections to avoid a 'baby's butt cheek' look. Key challenges include balancing ease of opening with visual appeal. Lee believes the phone will remain the mainframe device even as AI wearables emerge, and that displays will persist. He noted that weight is more important than thinness for comfort. AI should be seamlessly integrated rather than visible. Lee joined Samsung in 2023 and goes by 'Hughie.' The interview took place on the eve of the launch.
Key facts
- Hubert Lee is Samsung's executive vice-president and head of mobile experience design team.
- Lee joined Samsung in 2023.
- Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a shorter and wider form factor when closed.
- The device opens to a tablet with a 4:3 screen ratio, similar to the iPad mini.
- The passport inspired the new form factor for one-handed usage.
- Lee emphasized clean, simple, modern design with flatter sections.
- Key design challenge: balancing ease of opening with visual appeal.
- Lee believes the phone will remain the mainframe device even with AI wearables.
- Weight is more important than thinness for comfort.
- AI should be seamlessly integrated, not visible.
- Lee goes by 'Hughie'.
- Interview conducted on the eve of the launch.
Entities
Artists
- Hubert Lee
Institutions
- Samsung
- Monocle
Locations
- South Korea
Sources
- Monocle —