Samsung to Launch Two Z Fold Models in 2026, One with a Square Display

Samsung may be preparing to shake up its foldable smartphone strategy for 2026 and beyond. Industry insiders report that the company plans to launch two Galaxy Z Fold models next year, alongside a Flip. This is in addition to the first-gen tri-fold coming later this year.

Samsung to expand Galaxy Z lineup with a new wide Fold in 2026

The new addition will be a “wide-type” Fold, designed with a noticeably different aspect ratio, the Korean media reports. Unlike the vertically tall Galaxy Z Fold 7, the upcoming model is said to be shorter when folded but wider when opened. It essentially combines two 18:9 panels for an almost square 18:18 inner display. Samsung likely sees this design improving usability for productivity, gaming, and media consumption.

The Fold 7 is already a lot more square-ish than the Fold 6. The inner display aspect ratios for the two models are approximately 18:20 and 18:21, respectively. Samsung may keep a similar screen on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, while offering an almost square inner display on the new “wide” Fold, which doesn’t have a name yet.

It’s worth noting that the Korean firm did launch a second Fold last year, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition. It featured a similar inner display as the Fold 7. However, the device was limited to China and Korea. Hopefully, the wide Fold it plans to launch in 2026 would see a wider release.

One industry insider confirmed that Samsung has already shared this development plan, with discussions pointing toward a launch alongside the next-generation Flip and Fold series in the second half of 2026. While specific specifications remain unconfirmed, final details are expected to be locked down in the coming weeks.

Apple’s shadow looms large

Many industry experts see Samsung’s foldable expansion as a strategic response to Apple’s entry into the market. The iPhone maker is expected to release its first folding phone in late 2026, a move that many analysts believe will accelerate mass adoption.

According to research firm Omdia, foldable shipments are forecast to reach 23.5 million units in 2025, accounting for just 2.2% of total smartphone sales. However, that figure could more than double to 51.8 million units by 2027, or 4.4% of the market, driven largely by Apple’s arrival. An expanded portfolio of folding phones could give Samsung a competitive advantage against a key rival.

Meanwhile, Samsung’s long-rumored double-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, looks all set for a late 2025 release. It may debut in China and Korea first, followed by a global launch in 2026. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has already proven successful this year, giving Samsung confidence to experiment with new designs. It will be interesting to see how the competition heats up over the next few years.