Samsung Develops ‘Wide Fold’ Phone Ahead of Apple’s First Foldable iPhone

Samsung Develops ‘Wide Fold’ Phone Ahead of Apple’s First Foldable iPhone

Samsung appears to be preparing a major shift in its foldable smartphone strategy as Apple moves closer to launching its first foldable iPhone. New reports suggest Samsung is developing a “Wide Fold” smartphone, featuring a wider, book-style design aimed directly at Apple’s expected entry into the foldable market in 2026.

If accurate, the move shows Samsung is not waiting for Apple to arrive but is proactively reshaping its lineup to defend its long-held dominance in foldables.

Apple’s Foldable iPhone May Redefine the Category

Apple has not officially confirmed a foldable iPhone, but industry leaks consistently point to a wider, book-like form factor rather than the tall, narrow designs common today. The device is rumored to unfold into a 4:3 aspect ratio display, similar to an iPad mini, prioritizing productivity, multitasking, and media consumption.

This approach challenges existing foldables, which often feel like elongated smartphones rather than compact tablets. If Apple adopts this design, it could quickly reset user expectations across the market.

Samsung’s ‘Wide Fold’: What’s Different

According to South Korean reports, Samsung’s Wide Fold would sit alongside — not replace — the Galaxy Z Fold lineup.

The inner display is expected to measure around 7.6 inches, closely matching Apple’s rumored 7.58-inch panel, and crucially adopt a 4:3 aspect ratio. This marks a clear departure from Samsung’s traditionally narrow foldable screens.

The outer display may also change significantly. Instead of the tall cover screens seen on recent Galaxy Z Fold models, the Wide Fold could feature a shorter, wider 5.4-inch cover display, making everyday tasks more comfortable without opening the device.

Similar designs from Oppo and Google have previously been praised for improved ergonomics and usability.

Why Wider Foldables Are Gaining Momentum

The shift toward wider foldables appears driven by practical use rather than design novelty. Wider devices offer:

Better balance and grip

More natural typing and app layouts

Improved multitasking

Fewer compromises between phone and tablet modes

Reports suggest both Samsung and Apple see this design as offering greater stability and long-term appeal.

Samsung’s Ambitious Foldable Roadmap

The Wide Fold is rumored to launch in fall 2026, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8. If true, this would be the first time Samsung releases three foldable models in a single year, each targeting different users.

The strategy signals that foldables may be moving beyond early adopters toward mainstream segmentation.

The Bigger Picture

Samsung has years of foldable experience, while Apple is known for entering markets late and reshaping them quickly. The development of a Wide Fold suggests Samsung expects Apple’s foldable iPhone to be disruptive — and is preparing to meet that challenge head-on.

The next phase of foldables may not be about who launched first, but who delivers the most practical design.