Release Date Set for Summer 2026

Samsung Electronics is preparing to launch a significantly redesigned variant of its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 series this summer, with the so-called “Wide” model confirmed for a third-quarter debut alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8, according to multiple industry reports and recent software leaks.

South Korean outlet ET News reported in late January that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide — internally referred to in some contexts as a broader book-style foldable — will unveil at Samsung’s traditional summer Galaxy Unpacked event, typically held in July or August. Tipster Ice Universe reinforced the timeline on X, pointing to a likely July launch. This marks a shift from earlier speculation that the wider model might arrive later in the year to more directly rival an anticipated Apple foldable iPhone.

The Wide variant represents Samsung’s most substantial design evolution in the book-style foldable category since the line’s inception. Leaked animations from early One UI 9 test builds — Samsung’s upcoming software based on Android 17 — surfaced in mid-February, providing the first near-official glimpses of the device. Codenamed H8 with model number SM-F971U in U.S. variants, the renders show a noticeably wider aspect ratio on both the cover and inner displays compared to the current Galaxy Z Fold 7’s tall, narrow profile.

When folded, the external screen adopts a near-16:10 ratio, making it feel more phone-like and less elongated than predecessors. Unfolded, the main display shifts toward a roughly 9:7 aspect ratio, offering a more tablet-oriented experience optimized for multitasking, media consumption and productivity. This contrasts sharply with the Z Fold 7’s approximately 1.11:1 inner ratio, addressing long-standing user feedback about the traditional Fold’s awkward proportions for video and split-screen use.

Industry analysts view the Wide model as a strategic response to competitive pressures, particularly rumors of Apple’s first foldable — expected later in 2026 with a landscape-oriented, wider design. By launching in summer, Samsung aims to establish market dominance early. Production estimates suggest Samsung plans around 3.5 million units of the overall Z Fold 8 family, with approximately 1 million allocated to the Wide variant, indicating a meaningful but targeted rollout.

Beyond the form factor, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series — including the standard and Wide models — is expected to build on recent foldable advancements. Rumors point to a continued focus on durability, with potential improvements to hinge mechanisms and reduced crease visibility on inner displays. Battery capacities could approach 5,000mAh in some configurations, supported by efficient chipsets like Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon or Samsung’s Exynos options. Camera systems are slated for upgrades, emphasizing better low-light performance and AI-enhanced processing via Galaxy AI features.

S Pen support remains a staple for productivity, while One UI 9 integration promises deeper AI capabilities for seamless multitasking across the expanded screen real estate. Pricing details are scarce, but the Wide model may position as a more accessible entry into premium foldables, potentially undercutting the flagship Z Fold 8’s expected $1,999 starting point to broaden appeal.

Samsung has not officially commented on the Wide variant or specific launch dates, but thepresence of dedicated firmware flags and animations in One UI 9 builds strongly corroborates development progress. The company continues to expand its foldable portfolio, following the recent U.S. availability of the Galaxy Z TriFold — a triple-folding device priced at $2,899 and featuring a 10-inch inner display — which launched in late January.

As foldables gain mainstream traction, Samsung’s dual-Fold strategy for 2026 positions the company to capture diverse user preferences: the classic tall design for one-handed use and the new wider format for immersive content and work. The summer Unpacked event will likely clarify final specs, pricing and availability when Samsung takes the stage.