Report says Wide Fold may have 7.6-inch inner screen, 5.4-inch cover display and wider 4:3 ratio
The timing of the foldable is particularly noteworthy as Apple is widely expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone as early as September 2026.PHOTO: TOMS GUIDE
Samsung is reportedly developing a new foldable smartphone that could add a fresh dimension to its lineup and intensify competition ahead of Apple’s long-anticipated entry into the foldable phone market.
According to a report by South Korea’s Etnews, Samsung is working on an internally codenamed device known as the “Wide Fold,” which is expected to launch in the second half of 2026. Unlike the company’s existing Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models, the new device is said to feature a wider, more tablet-like display design.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the development or specifications of the device and did not respond immediately to a request for comment.
The report suggests the Wide Fold will feature a 7.6-inch internal display when unfolded and a 5.4-inch external screen when closed. Notably, the internal screen is expected to have a 4:3 aspect ratio — wider and squarer than the tall, narrow displays currently used in Samsung’s foldable phones.
Such a design could significantly change how foldable devices are used. A wider aspect ratio is generally better suited for reading, browsing, document editing and photo viewing, offering an experience closer to that of a compact tablet. It could also reduce compatibility issues where apps must stretch or reformat awkwardly on foldable screens.
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The timing of the rumoured device is particularly noteworthy as Apple is widely expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone as early as September 2026. Industry reports have suggested Apple’s foldable could feature an unfolded display of around 7.7 inches with an aspect ratio close to 4:3 — similar to what is being reported for Samsung’s Wide Fold.
If both companies introduce similarly sized foldables around the same time, it would mark the first direct competition between Samsung and Apple in the foldable smartphone segment. Samsung has dominated the category since its inception, but Apple’s entry could help bring foldable phones into the mainstream.
Details regarding pricing, camera features, processors and global availability remain unclear. It is also not known whether “Wide Fold” is a working title or a name intended for consumers.
Samsung typically unveils new foldable devices at its Galaxy Unpacked events in summer or early autumn, raising the possibility that the Wide Fold could debut alongside other flagship products in 2026. For now, the report offers an early glimpse into how Samsung may be rethinking the future of foldable smartphones.
