Samsung appears to be preparing a new kind of foldable phone that could expand its lineup and set the stage for competition with Apple's long-rumored foldable device.
According to a Korean report from Etnews, translated into English using Google Translate, Samsung is developing a device internally referred to as the "Wide Fold." The phone is expected to debut in the second half of 2026 and would introduce a different display compared with the company's Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip models. Samsung has also introduced the Galaxy Z TriFold, which has three panels instead of just two.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the Wide Fold device or its specifications, and it did not immediately reply to a request for comment.
Don't miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source.
A wider screen than Samsung's current lineup
The biggest takeaway from the report is the Wide Fold's display design. Sources cited by Etnews say the device would feature a 7.6-inch internal screen when unfolded and a 5.4-inch external display when closed. Notably, the internal screen is said to have a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is wider and squarer than the tall, narrow displays found on existing Galaxy Z Fold phones.
That design choice could potentially change how the device is used, as a wider aspect ratio generally makes reading, web browsing, document editing and photo viewing feel more natural -- closer to using a small tablet rather than a mobile phone. It could also reduce the need for apps to awkwardly stretch or reformat themselves on foldable screens.
Read also: The Folding iPhone Is Getting Real (and Might Use Samsung Parts)
A possible Apple connection
One of the more intriguing aspects of the report is how closely the rumored Wide Fold aligns with speculation around Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected as early as September 2026. Multiple industry reports have suggested Apple is working on a foldable device with an unfolded display around 7.7 inches and an aspect ratio close to 4:3.
If both companies release similarly sized foldables around the same time, it would mark the first true showdown between Samsung and Apple in this category. Samsung has dominated the foldable market so far, but Apple's eventual entry could legitimize the format for a much wider audience.
Watch this: Apple's Foldable iPhone Said to Use Samsung Parts
05:05
What we still don't know
The Korean report doesn't mention pricing, camera specifications, processor details or whether the Wide Fold will launch globally. It's unclear whether "Wide Fold" is an internal codename or a consumer-facing product name.
Samsung typically unveils new foldables during its summer or early fall Galaxy events, so if the Wide Fold rumor pans out, it may be introduced alongside other Galaxy devices in 2026. Until then, this remains an early look at how Samsung may be rethinking the future of foldable phones.
More from CNET: From the Apple iPhone Fold to Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: All New Phones to Expect in 2026
English (US) ·