Samsung is reported to be working on its first foldable smartphone with a wider display than its existing Galaxy Z model, which has a tall and narrow shape. The new smartphone, which is said to be called the Wide Fold, will be released within the last half of 2026 to compete directly against Apple’s upcoming first foldable iPhone.
What is the Samsung Wide Fold?
The Samsung Wide Fold was designed to move away from the typical smartphone proportions; it will feature a 7.6-inch inner foldable display that has a wider aspect ratio (roughly 4:3 or almost square), which will create a “passport-style” feel when opened.
It has a 5.4-inch outer screen for everyday phone usage without unfolding and supports 25W wireless charging.
A wider screen makes multitasking, consuming media, and productive uses easier compared to traditional foldable phones that opened to tablet orientations.
Expected Specifications
| Feature | Rumoured Detail |
| Inner Display | ~7.6-inch foldable OLED |
| Outer Display | ~5.4 inches |
| Aspect Ratio | Wider / near square (e.g., 4:3 or 18:18) |
| Wireless Charging | 25W support |
| Launch Window | Fall 2026 |
Note: Specifications are based on leaks and industry reports; official details may vary.
Launch Timeline
It is estimated that Samsung will launch the Wide Fold in Fall 2026, along with two other products: the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
Industry insiders say this is part of a long-term strategy for Samsung to have a competitive edge with the new design against the expected Apple foldable iPhone which is likely to be released around 2026.
Competition: Apple’s Foldable iPhone
There is a lot of excitement about Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone (called ‘iPhone Fold’ in leaks). It is expected to be a wide-screen (~7.6-7.8 in), almost square, large (similar to ‘Wide Fold’) screen.
Production of the foldable screens is under way, with Samsung Display providing the only source of OLED displays for Apple, which will also benefit from the success of its competitor’s product.
Apple was originally hoping to introduce the iPhone Fold in 2026, but given the ongoing supply chain constraints related to Covid-19 and other reasons, the earliest widespread availability of this new phone may not take place until 2027.
However, a key outcome of competing with the two major players in the foldable phone space will be accelerated innovation and growth of consumer interest in large screen/flexible devices.
Why the Wide Fold Matters
Foldable smartphones are a still an emergent segment of the technology industry, and as manufacturers continue to develop this technology and bring additional products to market, analysts expect substantial growth of market share for the foldable smartphone segment. As an early provider of commercially-available foldable phones since 2019, Samsung intends to enhance its position at the top of this emerging segment as manufacturers continue to launch competing foldable devices and as the evolution of consumer demand drives manufacturer innovation.
Utilization of larger-sized displays may provide Samsung with enhanced usability for multitaskers looking to use side-by-side applications; gamers seeking a more immersive gaming experience while using an app; and creators who would benefit from having additional horizontal space. The addition of Apple to the foldable phone market will likely provide an additional boost in consumer adoption of foldable phones, similar to several categories of consumer electronics in which Apple has participated and contributed to an increase in consumer awareness for and adoption of those categories.
