Samsung silences benchmark tests on new foldables – a firmware fix

Samsung is throttling benchmark apps on its latest Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 – a move that directly addresses accusations of artificially inflating performance scores from tools like AnTuTu and Geekbench.

A history of controversy

This isn’t a new issue. Back in 2013, Samsung faced scrutiny over allegedly manipulating results on the Galaxy Note 3’s Geekbench tests, boosting CPU and GPU frequencies when the benchmark app was running. They initially claimed it was a natural consequence of the device’s performance demands, but the explanation felt…thin.

The root cause: engineering firmware

According to Ice Universe, the review units currently in the hands of media and influencers are running June engineering firmware – a version distinct from the final retail build. This means the lack of benchmark app installation isn’t a deliberate design choice, but rather a consequence of the software stage. A Samsung spokesperson confirmed this, stating the units are specifically designed for testing and aren’t yet running the finalized software.

Trade-in deals offer a ray of hope

Despite the setback, Samsung is offering enticing trade-in deals to mitigate the impact. Pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra can be slashed by $1,200, while the Z Fold 8 receives a maximum $1,200 discount. Those who don't trade in can also snag a $30 reservation gift and a $200 Samsung credit.

A practical solution – for now

The good news? Once the final software is deployed, users will be able to install benchmark apps as easily as on any other Galaxy device. It’s a pragmatic solution to a pre-release snag, and a necessary step to ensure transparent performance evaluations. This approach sidesteps the previous controversy and allows reviewers to operate without artificial constraints – a distinctly preferable outcome.