A truck loaded with 12,000 brand-new Samsung foldable smartphones—specifically the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 models—has been stolen in a high-value heist near London’s Heathrow Airport, resulting in an estimated $10.6 million loss for the tech giant.
What Happened?
According to reputable tipster Ice Universe, the shipment was in transit when the truck was stolen. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, the operation appears calculated given the truck’s valuable cargo. It’s uncertain whether the truck was deliberately targeted for its load of flagship foldable devices or fell victim to a random carjacking.
The Scale of the Loss
- Devices Stolen: 12,000 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 smartphones.
- Estimated Loss: $10.6 million.
- Incident Location: Near London Heathrow Airport.
Despite the staggering number of stolen phones and the huge monetary value, this incident is unlikely to make a significant dent in Samsung’s finances. The company has robust insurance policies for such large shipments—meaning much, if not all, of the loss may be compensated. Additionally, $10.6 million, while substantial, is relatively minor compared to Samsung’s overall annual revenue.
Next Steps: Device Lockdown Likely
It is probable that Samsung has already acted to protect its interests and customers by sending a remote signal to blocklist all serial numbers of the stolen devices. Such a measure would prevent the stolen phones from being activated or used, effectively rendering them useless on most networks and for typical buyers.
Impact on Consumers and Retailers
The truck was reportedly headed for an undisclosed retailer or carrier, with the expectation that the devices would soon hit store shelves. Given the theft, it’s possible that some retailers in the UK may experience temporary supply delays for these new foldables.
Availability of the New Foldables
Announced in early July and launched later in the month, both the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 are now widely available to consumers worldwide—despite this highly publicized loss.
This incident highlights both the allure and risks involved with transporting high-value tech goods. For Samsung, robust logistics, insurance coverage, and rapid security protocols remain crucial in the fast-moving world of smartphone distribution.