The IT Nerd

Fall reading week is on the horizon for most Ontario and Quebec post-secondary schools! With that in mind, I wanted to share how Samsung’s new Galaxy devices can help students maximize their time, whether that means studying or stepping away.

Reading week was about recharging. With a 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 offers plenty of screen space for gaming, streaming TV shows or curling up with some non-textbook reading.

For the more studious folks, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra offers long-lasting battery support and an 8-inch main display, which opens up to make multi-tab researching and note-taking a breeze.

When there’s a major project to tackle, the new Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Series offers an expansive Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and Samsung DeX for a more PC-like experience. The included S Pen also makes it easy to annotate readings, sketch out ideas or mark up content.

And since accidents happen on campus and at home, Samsung Care+ offers added protection for 24-month, 12-month and month-to-month terms on eligible Galaxy devices.

For more info, check out samsung.com.

Samsung today launched the Galaxy Tab S12+, Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy SmartTag3, bringing new ways to work, create and keep track of what matters. 

Powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, the Galaxy Tab S12 Series combines powerful performance, PC-like productivity and an immersive viewing experience for work, creativity and entertainment. 

• For the multitasker: Samsung DeX brings a more PC-like experience to the tablet, letting users open, resize and arrange multiple apps across up to four workspaces, ideal for referencing research while building a presentation, taking notes during a video call or managing projects on the go. 
• For students and note-takers: The included S Pen and Galaxy AI tools like Note Assist can help capture, summarize, translate and organize notes, whether recapping a lecture, reviewing research or pulling together ideas for a project. 
• For creators: The S Pen makes it easy to sketch, annotate and bring ideas to life, while Adobe Photoshop integration supports more advanced editing and creative workflows from virtually anywhere. 
• For entertainment lovers: The 12.6-inch Galaxy Tab S12+ and 14.6-inch Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays provide an expansive canvas for gaming and streaming, whether relaxing at home or catching up on content while travelling. 
• For keeping track of what matters: The new Galaxy SmartTag3 makes it easier to locate everyday essentials like keys, bags and luggage, with a smaller, lighter design, up to 550 days of battery life and support for both Galaxy and iOS devices

Thanksgiving comes with plenty to be thankful for, and a pretty long to-do list.

This year, the Galaxy Z Fold8, Z Fold8 Ultra and Z Flip8 can be the holiday plus-ones that actually pitch in. Here’s how Samsung devices can take something off your Thanksgiving plate:

1.      Plan Like A Pro: As Thanksgiving plans come together, Galaxy AI helps keep you on track. Now Brief shares useful information at a glance, while Now Nudge recognizes dates, times and locations on screen and suggests next steps (like populating your calendar or pulling up a shared location).

2.      Become A Multitasking Machine: Too many cooks in the kitchen? Unfold Galaxy Z Fold8 or Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra for more room to multitask. You can keep the Friendsgiving group chat open alongside that ambitious recipe, or go full screen on a YouTube tutorial when it’s time to de-lump the gravy.

3.      Capture The Moments Worth Keeping Everyone knows the phone eats first, and 50MP cameras on these Galaxy devices have the goods to document an Instagrammable plate. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra’s 200MP main camera can capture everything from close-up details to the whole Thanksgiving spread, while Flex Mode on the Galaxy Z Flip8 makes hands-free shooting for group selfies as easy as pie.

For a little extra peace of mind over the holiday weekend, Samsung Care+ offers added protection for eligible Galaxy devices, with 24-month, 12-month and month-to-month coverage options.

New research from Samsung Canada reveals a growing productivity paradox, with technology amplifying both capability and complexity in everyday life.

Three-quarters (75%) of Canadians say technology helps them get things done faster, yet 68% say it also gives them more to manage, according to a new survey of 1,547 adults. The tension even extends to Gen Z, as more than half say manual steps and app switching stand in the way of getting things done.

The data points to a clear expectation from Canadians: Technology should not only help them accomplish their goals, but also simplify the steps along the way. More than half (57%) agree that the more digital tools they use, the more they have to manage.

Digital Friction Creates Extra Work

For many Canadians, extra work shows up in routine digital tasks at least a few times a week:

• Messages and notifications: 77% say managing messages and notifications creates unnecessary effort or slows them down
• Searching for information: 70% say searching for information they know they’ve already received or seen creates unnecessary effort or slows them down
• Competing demands: 66% say keeping track of multiple tasks or conversations at once creates unnecessary effort or slows them down.
• Switching between apps: 62% say moving between apps or digital services creates unnecessary effort or slows them down

The effects extend beyond time lost. At least a few times per week, 59% of Canadians say they feel mentally drained or overwhelmed when technology, information or competing priorities make it harder to get things done, while 57% spend more time deciding what to do next than actually doing it. And nearly half (46%) agree they often end the day feeling busy without feeling as productive as expected.

The findings reveal an opportunity for mobile experiences to reduce some of those everyday challenges. Samsung Galaxy devices bring AI-powered features into the moments people need them, with tools like Now Brief[1] and Now Nudge helping users stay on top of relevant information and trim their to-do lists in fewer steps.

Gen Z Is Ready For AI To Do More

Even for Gen Z, growing up with technology hasn’t eliminated digital friction. More than half of Gen Z (58%) agree to spending too much time on manual steps just to make technology work, while 51% say switching between apps or digital services creates unnecessary effort or slows them down at least daily. More than half (53%) feel mentally drained or overwhelmed at least daily when technology, information or competing priorities get in the way.

At the same time, Gen Z is highly receptive to AI that works harder for them: 83% selected at least one AI feature as potentially valuable for helping them get things done with less effort.

Canadians Want AI To Tackle Busywork

Two-thirds of Canadians (66%) selected at least one AI feature as being potentially valuable for helping them get things done with less effort. They see value in simplifying information, automating repetitive tasks, supporting decision making and bringing information together across apps and services.

The same desire for simplicity extends to everyday mobile experiences. Reducing the number of steps needed to complete a task was the most frequently selected improvement (38%), followed by bringing relevant information together rather than searching across apps (30%).

Other priorities included completing more tasks without switching devices (29%), moving between tasks without losing their place (29%), reducing distractions (25%) and viewing multiple pieces of information at once (23%).

Samsung has announced the Galaxy S26 FE, the newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family, bringing signature Galaxy S camera and AI experiences together with the latest One UI 9. 

Built around the experiences people use most, Galaxy S26 FE puts a particular focus on capturing, editing and sharing content, alongside more personalized and context-aware Galaxy AI features. Highlights include: 

• My FanCam comes to the Galaxy S series: First introduced on Samsung’s latest foldables, My FanCam automatically tracks a selected subject and keeps them centred in the frame, making it easier to capture social-ready video with less manual editing. 
• More ways to capture and create: A triple rear camera system includes a 50MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide and 8MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, while Nightography and Super Steady Video with Horizontal Lock help capture clearer, steadier footage. Photo Assist also lets users make edits using natural language prompts. 
• The latest Galaxy AI with One UI 9: Updated Now Brief offers customizable briefing cards, while Now Nudge can surface relevant suggestions across select third-party apps and notifications. Circle to Search with Google and Gemini Live can also identify multiple items in an image at once. 
• Built for the everyday: Galaxy S26 FE features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 4,900mAh battery, 45W wired charging, and seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates. 

Galaxy S26 FE will be available starting September 4 in Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio, starting at $1,049. 

Here’s some details:

Samsung Electronics today announced that the new Galaxy Z series and Galaxy Watch lineup are beginning to roll out worldwide. Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, Flip8, Watch Ultra2 and Watch9 are available through carriers, retailers, Samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores, with sales beginning August 7 in select markets and expanding globally.

Strong early demand reflects growing excitement for Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z series, with pre-orders for the new lineup having increased by more than 30% compared with the previous generation. Graphite was the most popular colour overall for Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold8, while Pink led pre-orders for Galaxy Z Flip8. Among Samsung.com pre-order customers aged 15 to 34, exclusive colours Green Shadow, Pistachio and Mint emerged as the top choices for Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8 and Flip8, respectively.

The New Galaxy Z Series: Three Distinct Foldable Experiences

Built on seven generations of foldable innovation and consumer insight, the new Galaxy Z series gives users more choice than ever, with three distinct experiences engineered to fit different needs.

Galaxy Z Fold8 introduces a fresh form factor built around the way people explore, discover and immerse themselves in their favourite content. Its display ratios are designed to move naturally with users throughout the day – from quick interactions like messaging, browsing and short-form video on the wider cover screen to more immersive viewing, reading and gaming on the 4:3 main display. With Gemini Notebook, users can bring together notes, images, recordings, files and documents in one workspace to collect, organize and develop their ideas. At just 201 g, it is Samsung’s lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet, while Samsung’s new Flex Titanium technology helps support a slimmer display structure with impressive strength and reduced crease visibility over time.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra brings Galaxy’s renowned Ultra standard to foldables, combining a larger workspace with an upgraded camera system and performance built for demanding creative workflows. Its expansive 8-inch main display opens up more room for multitasking, while Now Nudge helps users move from conversation to action by suggesting relevant next steps across supported apps.

The 200 MP main camera now supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) in 200 MP mode for richer detail, colour and clarity. A new 50 MP ultra-wide camera adds greater flexibility for wider scenes and macro shots, helping users capture more from one device. Across Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8, Dual Recording captures both the action and the user’s reaction, while My FanCam automatically tracks and reframes a selected subject.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra also features a 5,000 mAh battery, 45 W Super Fast Charging and an expanded graphite cooling structure – all in Galaxy’s slimmest Z Fold design yet, measuring just 4.1 mm when unfolded and weighing 215 g.

Galaxy Z Flip8, Samsung’s sleekest Flip ever released, is built for expression and quick interaction on the go. Its reimagined FlexWindow brings apps, insights, actions and assistance directly to the cover screen. Now Brief surfaces personalized information based on users’ schedules, routines and interests. Users can also access Gemini from the FlexWindow through side-key activation or natural voice requests, making it easier to complete connected actions on the go. Galaxy Z Flip8 further enhances Samsung’s signature Flip camera experience with a 50 MP camera, ProVisual Engine and FlexCam experiences that make it easier to capture, preview and share polished photos and videos from flexible angles.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9: Effortless Health Management From the Wrist

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 extend the Galaxy experience to the wrist, helping users turn daily health data into more meaningful, actionable guidance through effortless everyday wear. Both devices are powered by the Snapdragon Wear® Elite Platform and are designed to support continuous health tracking with improved performance, comfort and battery life.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is built for outdoor adventures and high-performance users who need long-lasting endurance, reliability and precise tracking. Available in a 47 mm size, it features an 800 mAh battery, a display with up to 5,000 nits of brightness, shock-resistant titanium casing and dedicated tracking modes for outdoor sports, including Trail Run. It is also rated IP69K and 10 ATM and certified to EN 13319.

Galaxy Watch9 is designed as an everyday health companion for wellness-conscious users who want to build healthier habits through continuous activity and sleep tracking. Available in 40 mm and 44 mm sizes, Galaxy Watch9 features a lightweight aluminum casing, a comfortable design for 24/7 wear, a display with up to 3,000 nits of brightness and health features such as Vitals, Heart Health Score, Daily Cardio Load, Fitness Index and Hearing.

Together with the new Galaxy Z series, Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 expand Samsung’s AI ecosystem, bringing connected companion experiences across phone and wrist.

Availability

Starting August 7, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8 and Flip8 will be available through carriers, retailers, Samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores in 106 markets worldwide.

Customers who purchase a new Galaxy Z 8 series device will receive a six-month trial of Google AI Pro, including 5 TB of cloud storage, valued at $161.94. With expanded access to Google’s AI models, users can enhance productivity and creativity on their foldable devices.

Switching to Galaxy is now easier than ever, thanks to a more seamless migration experience across a wider range of devices. With the updated Smart Switch, iOS users can scan a QR code on their current device and wirelessly transfer data without downloading an additional app. Smart Switch can also transfer more types of data, including passwords and passkeys, call history, accessibility settings and eSIM information, helping reduce the time needed to set up a new device. With new compatibility between Quick Share and AirDrop, users can also share files seamlessly between iOS and Galaxy devices in both directions.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9 will also be available through carriers, retailers, Samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores in 106 markets worldwide starting August 7.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 are available in a range of colours, including Violet Shadow, Lavender and Pink, respectively — with additional options available exclusively on Samsung.com. Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is available in 47 mm, while Watch9 is offered in 40 mm and 44 mm. Colour, size, connectivity option, model and availability may vary by market, carrier, or retailer.

Customers who purchase a Galaxy Watch Ultra2 or Galaxy Watch9 can access exclusive subscription trial benefits, including a 60-day Strava trial valued at $29.98 and a two-month iFIT trial valued at $19.98. Together, these benefits help users track workouts from the wrist and extend their fitness experiences through partner apps. Terms, eligibility and availability may vary by market.

To give users peace of mind after upgrading, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive protection with fast repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty coverage and certified expert support at home and abroad. With One UI 9, the new Warranty and care section in Settings also gives users a clear view of their enrollment status, coverage details

New foldable form factor. Smarter AI. More advanced wearables.

That’s what’s coming today as Samsung unveils its newest Galaxy lineup at Galaxy Unpacked in London. The lineup includes new Galaxy Z Fold and Flip devices, including the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Fold8, alongside the latest Galaxy Watches, with pre-orders opening July 22.

To help consumers get the most from their new device, Samsung Care+ offers added peace of mind beyond the standard manufacturer warranty, with convenient service options including same-day walk-in repairs and mail-in service.

Below is a snapshot of what’s new across the lineup:

Samsung has already confirmed that new Galaxy devices are on the way later this week. But some BTS fans think they might have spotted one in the wild already.

Videos from a BTS sound check in Paris are fueling speculation, as j-hope is seen using what appears to be an unreleased Samsung smartphone. Samsung hasn’t confirmed any product details, but that hasn’t stopped tech enthusiasts from dissecting the device’s size and shape, wondering whether the clips offer a first look at what’s coming next.

If you haven’t seen the videos yet, you can check them out here and here.

The countdown is on for Samsung’s next launch later this month in London! But Canadians don’t have to travel across the pond to get in on the excitement of Galaxy Unpacked.

By registering now at https://www.samsung.com/ca/unpacked, Canadians can stay up to date on all things Unpacked and access exclusive pre-order benefits.

In addition to teasers and general updates, readers who sign up will receive:

• A $50 e-voucher toward a 2026 Galaxy device
• A chance to win one of 10 $500 e-vouchers toward their next purchase
• A chance to win a 65″ The Frame Pro TV
• Savings of up to $1,500 on a 2026 Galaxy device with an eligible trade-in

Galaxy Unpacked will showcase the newest additions to Samsung’s Galaxy portfolio, including the next generation of Galaxy foldables designed to deliver more personal, adaptive AI experiences.

I’ve also got this registration link to share. And for additional details, I invite you to check out the Samsung Canada Newsroom.

Soccer is having a moment in Canada, and fans are finding more ways than ever to follow the sport they love. Whether they’re streaming matches on the go, capturing celebrations from the stands or following along in group chats, they need smartphones that can keep up before, during and after the final whistle.

As the Official Mobile Partner of Canada Soccer, Samsung Electronics Canada is helping soccer enthusiasts stay closer to the action through Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphones and experiences designed to fuel the modern fan journey.

As part of the partnership with Canada Soccer, Samsung Electronics Canada is showcasing Galaxy experiences at Canada Soccer House in Toronto, where fans can enjoy hands-on access to some of the latest Galaxy S26 Ultra features. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore capabilities such as 100x Space Zoom[1], which captures the finest details from a distance, and Horizontal Lock[2], which creates smooth, stable video recordings even in dynamic environments.

This Galaxy experience highlights how Samsung can help fans create content worth keeping and revisiting. Capturing images from across the stadium or recording a boisterous goal celebration without the shake and blur that often comes with the moment, Galaxy S26 Ultra devices help fans preserve match-day memories with confidence.

For today’s supporters, maximizing the fan experience extends well beyond the stadium. Smartphones have become the primary way for many Canadians to stream match highlights between meetings, follow live updates during a commute or share content across social channels.

At Canada Soccer House and beyond, Samsung is demonstrating how Galaxy smartphones support fans at every stage and every form of fandom. The advanced camera technology on the Galaxy S26 Ultra helps fans capture the action with clarity, while immersive displays and powerful performance make it easier to watch, share and engage with content from virtually anywhere.

As soccer culture continues to grow across the country, Samsung remains committed to helping Canadians stay connected to the moments, communities and experiences that make the sport special.

To learn more about Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra and other devices, visit https://samsung.com/ca/.