Samsung's wider Galaxy Z Fold could compete with foldable iPhone next year

Samsung has largely solved issues found in the Galaxy Z Fold series with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. It is this year's thinnest and lightest foldable smartphone. It also has a good primary camera, and its screen crease isn't as noticeable as in earlier models. Since Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, Samsung is said to be preparing a wider Galaxy Z Fold phone.

A report from ETNews suggests Samsung is developing another Galaxy Z Fold phone, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8. This new model is slated for a 2026 fall launch and aims to compete directly with the first foldable iPhone. It reportedly has a 7.6-inch foldable screen and a 5.4-inch cover display. It is said to have a ‘passport' style screen with a 4:3 screen ratio when it is opened.

This wider Galaxy Z Fold model is also rumored to feature 25W fast wireless charging, similar to the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. It could be Samsung's first foldable phone with Qi2.2 charging and built-in magnets.

The foldable iPhone is rumored to have a 5.3-inch cover display, a 7.58-inch foldable display, and a 4:3 aspect ratio when it is opened. So, the wider Galaxy Z Fold model and the first foldable iPhone could have similar screen sizes, aspect ratios, and form factors.

Samsung's new move is likely to offer more options to consumers. Previously, OPPO launched two foldable phones (Find N and Find N2) with a similar form factor (shorter and wider), but switched to Samsung-style form factor for subsequent foldable phones.