As the foldable smartphone market heats up, Samsung is reportedly preparing a strategic counterpunch to Apple’s long-awaited entry into the category. Rumors indicate that Samsung will expand its 2026 lineup with a new “Wide” variant of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, featuring a shorter and wider book-style design. This move is widely seen as a preemptive strike against Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone, expected to debut in fall 2026 with a similar form factor.

A New Form Factor for Foldables

Current Galaxy Z Fold models, including the Z Fold 7, feature a tall, narrow design when closed—often criticized for feeling like a remote control—and a elongated aspect ratio when unfolded. The rumored Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide (internally called “Wide Fold”) shifts to a more compact, passport-like shape with a 4:3 aspect ratio when open, making it feel more like a mini-tablet.

Key rumored specifications include:

• A ~7.6-inch inner display.
• A ~5.4-inch cover screen.
• Potential support for faster 25W Qi2 wireless charging with magnetic alignment.
• Possible return of S Pen stylus compatibility, addressing a feature dropped in slimmer recent models.
• A larger ~5,000mAh battery in the standard Z Fold 8, with similar improvements likely for the Wide variant.

This wider design aims to improve usability for multitasking, media consumption, and productivity, while addressing common complaints about narrow cover screens on existing Folds. It draws inspiration from competitors like the Google Pixel Fold and Oppo Find N series, which have popularized squarer proportions.

Direct Competition with Apple’s Foldable Debut

Apple’s first foldable iPhone—often dubbed the “iPhone Fold”—is anticipated in September 2026, potentially as part of the iPhone 18 lineup. Leaks suggest it will feature dimensions remarkably close to Samsung’s Wide Fold: a 5.3–5.5-inch external screen unfolding to 7.5–7.8 inches, also with a near-4:3 ratio for a tablet-like experience.

By launching the Wide Fold alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 (expected in summer or fall 2026), Samsung avoids ceding ground to Apple. The company, with over seven years of foldable expertise, can highlight advantages in durability, software optimization (like One UI’s multitasking features), and ecosystem integration. Samsung’s strategy diversifies its offerings: retain the slim, phone-first tall Fold for existing fans while introducing the Wide model to attract users seeking a more practical unfolded experience.

Industry sources, including ETNews and analysts, describe this as Samsung neutralizing Apple’s potential “innovation” narrative. Rather than letting Apple define the wide-foldable segment, Samsung enters it simultaneously—or potentially earlier—with a mature product.

Why This Matters for the Foldable Market

2026 could mark a turning point for foldables, with direct head-to-head competition between the two smartphone giants. Samsung’s experience may give it an edge in areas like hinge reliability and crease minimization, while Apple’s debut could bring polished software and seamless ecosystem ties.

Additional rumors for Samsung’s 2026 foldables include lighter weights (Z Fold 8 potentially under 200g), upgraded cameras, and price stability despite rising costs. Apple’s device, however, is expected to command a premium, possibly $2,000–$2,500.

All details are based on leaks from reliable sources like ETNews, Android Authority, and MacRumors, with model numbers (e.g., SM-F971) appearing in databases. Official confirmation is pending, but the alignment of rumors points to an exciting rivalry that could accelerate innovation and mainstream adoption of foldables.

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