Samsung is not planning to уступать Apple in the race for foldable smartphones. In 2026, the company is expected to release a new version of the Galaxy Z Fold with an internal display in a 4:3 aspect ratio, noticeably wider and more “square” than current models. This is seen as a direct response to the future iPhone Fold, which, according to rumors, will use a similar display format. This was reported by the South Korean outlet ETNews, citing sources in the supply chain.

Why Samsung is changing the format

Current Z Fold models, including the upcoming Z Fold7, feature an almost square internal screen. While this works well for multimedia, it is not always ideal for productivity. The new 4:3 format would be closer to a tablet experience, offering more space for multitasking, reading, and working with documents. According to leaks, Apple is considering exactly this format for its first foldable iPhone.

Samsung is not abandoning its classic lineup. The standard Galaxy Z Fold8 is still expected to launch on schedule. As a result, in 2026 the company could unveil up to three foldable devices: updated Z Fold8 and Z Flip models, plus a new wide-format Z Fold variant.

Competition with Apple heats up

Apple is rumored to be preparing the iPhone Fold for 2026–2027, with a large internal display and a strong focus on productivity. Samsung is responding in advance by expanding its lineup to cover different use cases, from compact flip phones to foldables that function like pocket-sized tablets.

This is part of a broader strategy to prevent Apple from capturing the premium foldable segment, where Samsung currently holds a dominant position.

What this means for the market

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a turning point for foldable smartphones, with more models, different form factors, and intensified competition. Samsung aims to offer choice, ranging from narrow book-style foldables to wide tablet-like devices that fit in a pocket.

In brief

In 2026, Samsung is expected to release a Galaxy Z Fold with a 4:3 internal display, wider and more square than current models, as a response to Apple’s future iPhone Fold. The classic Z Fold8 and Z Flip models will also be released. Samsung is expanding its foldable lineup to cover multiple use cases and to prevent Apple from taking over the foldable smartphone market. The race of form factors is just beginning.