In a bustling Samsung retail lounge just blocks from the Han River, 28-year-old tech enthusiast Min-seo couldn’t believe her eyes: “You’re saying I can trade in my old Note 20 Ultra and get almost 1,000 bucks off the Fold 7?” she asked the store rep. She could—and she did. And she wasn’t alone.
Samsung has thrown down a thunderous gauntlet in the 2025 smartphone wars by offering up to $963 in trade-in value for older devices toward its newly unveiled Galaxy Z Fold 7. This is more than a promotion—it’s a power move to dominate the exploding foldable phone market and reassert supremacy against Apple and Chinese rivals.
Why This Samsung Deal Matters in 2025
Foldable smartphones aren’t just flashy tech toys anymore—they're reshaping the premium mobile market. And Samsung’s $963 offer for trade-ins isn’t just generous; it’s unprecedented.
Why now? Because competition is fierce.
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Apple’s Foldable iPhone is rumored for late 2025.
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Huawei and Xiaomi have slashed prices on their foldables in Asia.
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And consumer upgrade cycles are longer—meaning brands must incentivize like never before.
Samsung knows the Z Fold 7 must be a hit. This trade-in deal could be the tipping point.
What’s New About the Galaxy Z Fold 7?
The Z Fold 7 was officially launched on July 9, 2025, boasting:
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A dramatically thinner and lighter form factor (11.2mm folded).
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Gorilla Armor protection on the outer screen.
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An upgraded Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset.
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New FlexCam AI features and under-display camera tech.
It’s not just a minor upgrade—it’s a reimagination. For professionals, content creators, and mobile gamers, this foldable is now a serious productivity tool.
Key Takeaway:
Samsung isn’t just selling a phone. It’s selling the future of multitasking in your pocket.
How Much Can You Save—and With What Trade-Ins?
Samsung’s official website offers the following top trade-in values in the U.S.:
| Device | Max Trade-In Value |
|---|---|
| Galaxy Z Fold 5 | $963 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $890 |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | $825 |
| Pixel Fold | $790 |
| Galaxy Note 20 Ultra | $710 |
Even older devices—like the Galaxy S21 or iPhone 12—still fetch between $300–$500 depending on condition.
Why Is Samsung Being So Aggressive?
According to Kwon Jin-young, Samsung Mobile’s Chief Marketing Officer:
“2025 is the year foldables go mainstream. We’re not just rewarding loyalty—we’re redefining what’s possible in mobile.”
Samsung currently leads the global foldable market with a 61% share, but Apple’s looming entry threatens that.
In a May 2025 IDC report, foldables are projected to hit 48 million units sold this year, up from 30 million in 2024—a 60% YoY increase. That means every inch of market share is up for grabs.
What Are the Catch and Conditions?
Let’s break it down:
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The $963 value is only for select trade-ins, and varies by device and condition.
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The offer applies only during the pre-order window, ending July 28, 2025.
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Must be redeemed via Samsung.com or Samsung Experience Stores.
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Some carriers may offer stackable promos, adding even more savings.
Tip: Check if your carrier adds extra bonuses for trade-in stacking.
Is the Z Fold 7 Worth It Even With the Deal?
What are people asking:
Is the Galaxy Z Fold 7 worth upgrading to?
If you already own the Z Fold 5, this is a modest but meaningful leap—especially in weight reduction and multitasking software. But for anyone coming from a flat phone, the Fold 7 is a whole new class.
How durable is the Galaxy Z Fold 7?
Samsung claims it’s their most durable foldable yet—with IPX8 water resistance, hinge redesign, and new anti-dust tech. Early teardowns confirm stronger hinge pins and tighter sealing.
Will the Z Fold 7 get long-term updates?
Yes, Samsung has committed to 7 years of OS and security updates, matching Google and exceeding most competitors.
What Should Consumers Do Now?
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Check your device’s eligibility via Samsung.com.
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Pre-order before July 28 to lock in trade-in bonuses.
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Compare carrier offers—some may bundle Galaxy Watch 7 or Galaxy Buds 3.
And ask yourself: Will your next phone fold?
Samsung is betting that by 2026, at least 1 in 5 premium phones sold will fold. This trade-in offer is a bold push in that direction.