Source: Samsung Electronics New Zealand
Following a period of global attention around one of technology’s most recognisable names, another Tim Cook has made a significant change.
Auckland, New Zealand – 14 September 2026 – Samsung New Zealand has enlisted Tim Cook to put the new Galaxy Z Fold8 through its paces, marking a new chapter for Cook, as he chooses Samsung’s latest foldable as his phone of choice.
There is one important distinction: this Tim Cook is from Palmerston North, New Zealand. He is a real estate professional – not the technology-industry leader with the same name, who recently stepped down from a prominent CEO role within a fruit-named company.
In Samsung’s new campaign, “Tim Cook has an announcement. And for once, it’s about Galaxy,” Cook takes centre stage to introduce the Galaxy Z Fold8 and its large, foldable display. The campaign playfully follows Tim as he makes the switch from his old phone to a new foldable experience, building on a category Samsung introduced with the original Galaxy Fold in 2019.
“The Galaxy Z Fold8 opens up new possibilities,” says Tim Cook. “You have a phone when you need one, and a larger screen when you want to work, watch, create or do more.”
The campaign arrives as interest in foldable smartphones has hit fever pitch, as new brands are now entering the category. Samsung has spent seven generations evolving the foldable experience, which brings a premium smartphone, immersive large screen and powerful productivity tools in one device.
“While this campaign is tongue-in-cheek, the consumer trend behind it is real,” said Shannon Watts, Marketing Director at Samsung New Zealand. “We’re seeing more Kiwis switch to Samsung, with many looking for a phone that gives them more flexibility and a truly different experience. It’s great to see even Tim Cook making the switch – the Palmerston North one, of course.”
The Galaxy Z Fold8 has an expansive main display, slim design and flexible form factor, which makes it perfect for those wanting to get more from their phone. whether managing a busy day, working across multiple apps, watching content or staying connected on the move.
The new Galaxy Z8 series gives Kiwis more choice than ever, with bespoke experiences engineered to fit different needs. Galaxy Z Fold8 combines an expansive main display, slim design and flexible form factor for people wanting to get more from their phone. The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, for maximum productivity and content creation in a larger workspace and the Galaxy Z Flip8, the sleekest one which is built for expression.
The new Tim Cook campaign has gone viral globally, making headlines in Brazil, South Korea, Russia and across Europe. A huge feat for Samsung New Zealand to be punching above its weight and creating headlines around the globe.
The Palmerston North local’s videos have already generated 8.3 million organic views and helped gain over 14,000 new followers across Samsung New Zealand’s social channels. News of Tim’s switch has also been covered in more than 100 international media articles, in addition to a live radio interview on More FM.
The video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zP5VQUEm6og
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at https://news.samsung.com/.