The “Google Pixel Flip” isn’t happening. That much is clear, but Samsung’s new changes to the Galaxy Z Flip 8 more or less feel like what Google would have done.

While it very much feels like the door is closing on the Galaxy Z Flip series, Samsung is introducing some changes on the software side. That includes a revamped cover display with better support for apps, something Samsung has largely tried to ignore thus far.

• Galaxy Z Flip 8 finally cares about cover screen apps, but just barely

The focus on the Flip this year has been around some software revamps to the “FlexWindow” cover display, largely around making it a good ambient companion to your day. Samsung calls out “personalized briefs” powered by Galaxy AI and Now Brief, which showcases information pulled from your calendar and other apps such as travel info, health summaries, and various reminders. In addition to that, the main homescreen on the outer display has a central widget that pulls in relevant info based on the context of your day and other apps.

Information “at a glance,” one might say.

Meanwhile, Samsung touted Gemini Intelligence on the outer display which, wow, that might be the best possible use case of an AI that can use apps on your phone. Without opening the device you can have it get things done for you, all while keeping an eye on it from the notification on the cover display. You’ll have to take my word for it, but Samsung showcased this during Unpacked, I just missed the picture and it wasn’t shown in the livestream.

All of that together, and it really feels like what Google would do with the cover display of the “Pixel Flip” so many have asked for over the years. Ambient/contextual reminders and a focus on Gemini automation. Yeah, that’s exactly what Google would do, Samsung is just putting it into a One UI presentation.

Google has repeatedly said it’s not looking at flip phone foldables, and I don’t think it’s ever happening. At this point, I think the flip phone foldable category as a whole is sort of dying off, as it’s hit a wall of innovation.

So, unless something crazy happens, I think Galaxy Z Flip 8 is as close as we’re going to get to a “Google Pixel Flip.” What do you think?

Galaxy Z Flip 8 is available for pre-order now for $1,199.

• Ask me anything about Samsung’s new, wide Galaxy Z Fold 8
• Galaxy Z Flip 8 finally cares about cover screen apps, but just barely
• Samsung made it way easier to open up its Galaxy Z Fold 8 foldables

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