Samsung's latest Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra series have arrived, but a significant feature from previous models is notably absent: S Pen support. This marks a continuation of the decision made with the Z Fold 7, leaving a noticeable gap in productivity tools for users who relied on the stylus for tasks like note-taking, document annotation, and sketching on the large inner display.

The new Fold lineup heavily emphasizes productivity through AI features like Galaxy AI and Gemini Intelligence, alongside enhanced multitasking capabilities and larger displays. The Fold 8 Ultra, in particular, is marketed as the "ultimate productivity machine," boasting an 8-inch display, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip, a 5,000mAh battery, and a 200MP main camera. The standard Fold 8 offers a lighter design, a 4,800mAh battery, and dual 50MP cameras, while retaining the same flagship chipset.

Despite the push towards AI-driven productivity, the exclusion of S Pen support sends mixed signals. While AI can assist with tasks like summarizing meetings, it cannot replicate the precision and tactile experience of pen input. This omission is particularly striking given Samsung's marketing of the Fold 8 series as productivity-focused devices, raising questions about the company's direction for its foldable line-up and its understanding of user needs beyond AI enhancements. The absence of the S Pen, a feature that previously differentiated the Fold from competitors, is becoming increasingly difficult for users to overlook.