Samsung is developing a "Wide Fold" foldable phone for 2026 that directly targets Apple's first foldable iPhone, according to multiple reports from South Korean outlet ETNews. The device represents a strategic shift from Samsung's traditional tall foldable design to a wider, tablet-like form factor.
The Wide Fold will feature a 7.6-inch inner OLED display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, paired with a 5.4-inch cover screen. This configuration marks a departure from the Galaxy Z Fold 7's 6.5-inch tall cover display and creates a "passport-style" device when unfolded. Apple's rumored foldable iPhone reportedly features nearly identical dimensions with a 7.58-inch inner screen and similar 4:3 aspect ratio.
Samsung plans to launch the Wide Fold in fall 2026 alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8, not as a replacement but as an expanded portfolio option. The company will maintain its traditional tall foldable design with the Fold 8 while introducing the wider alternative. This expansion gives Samsung the broadest foldable lineup globally just as Apple enters the market.
The device will reportedly support 25W wireless charging, which ETNews claims would be the fastest wireless charging speed Samsung has offered so far. This feature is expected to debut first on the Galaxy S26 Ultra early next year before appearing in foldables. The Wide Fold could also be Samsung's first foldable with Qi2.2 technology and built-in magnets for charging alignment.
Industry sources cited by ETNews indicate the wider design prioritizes two-handed comfort and tablet-like utility. A 4:3 aspect ratio reduces black bars when viewing photos or browsing websites, making reading and media consumption more natural. The design addresses common complaints about tall foldables feeling awkward for multitasking.
Samsung's move represents a pre-emptive strike against Apple's foldable entry, aiming to defend its market leadership position. The company has maintained market leadership in the foldable segment since introducing the Galaxy Fold in 2019, though its share has declined from 45.2% in 2024 to a projected 35.4% in 2025 as competitors like Huawei close the gap. Apple's entry could legitimize the format for mainstream consumers. By offering a similar form factor simultaneously, Samsung hopes to split consumer interest.
The wider format follows earlier experiments like Oppo's Find N series, which launched in December 2021 with a compact, wider design compared to Samsung's tall foldables. Samsung itself has expanded its foldable portfolio with the Galaxy Z TriFold earlier this year, demonstrating willingness to experiment with different form factors.
Camera specifications for the Wide Fold remain unclear, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to receive significant upgrades. Reports suggest the Fold 8 will jump from a 12MP to 50MP ultra-wide camera and from 10MP to 12MP telephoto lens, bringing it closer to Samsung's flagship S-series camera capabilities.
Pricing and global availability details for the Wide Fold have not been disclosed. Samsung typically unveils new foldables during summer or early fall Galaxy events, suggesting a potential reveal alongside other 2026 devices. The company may initially limit availability to select markets to gauge interest, similar to its strategy with the Galaxy Z TriFold.
The 2026 foldable market will feature the first direct competition between Samsung and Apple in this category. Both companies are reportedly targeting similar price points around $2,000, though Samsung may keep the Fold 8 below this threshold to maintain accessibility. The competition could accelerate innovation and potentially lower prices across the foldable segment.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the Wide Fold device or its specifications. The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment from multiple publications. All details remain based on industry reports and leaks from sources familiar with Samsung's development plans.
