Samsung's Galaxy Wide Fold: A New Aspect Ratio for Foldables
Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch a new, wider variant of its foldable smartphone, tentatively named the "Galaxy Wide Fold," in the third quarter of the year. This device is expected to debut alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8, aiming to offer a different aspect ratio compared to previous models. Reports indicate Samsung plans a significant production volume for the Wide Fold, suggesting its role as a standard offering within its foldable lineup.
Reports indicate Samsung plans a significant production volume for the Wide Fold, suggesting its role as a standard offering within its foldable lineup.
Launch Overview
The "Galaxy Wide Fold" is anticipated to be unveiled during Samsung's summer Galaxy Unpacked event, likely in July or August, placing its debut within the third quarter of the year. This launch timing is earlier than initial expectations, which had suggested a fall release for the wider variant. The device is expected to be released concurrently with the upcoming standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
Design Specifications
The Galaxy Wide Fold is reported to feature a 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded. This design choice aims to address previous criticisms regarding the tall aspect ratio of predecessor models, which was noted as not ideal for landscape video viewing. Specifications for the Wide Fold include a 7.6-inch inner display when unfolded and a 5.4-inch cover screen. This configuration suggests a more square design compared to earlier Galaxy Z Fold models. This wider aspect ratio strategy has also been observed in Samsung's Tri-Fold model.
Production and Market Positioning
Samsung reportedly plans to produce 1 million units of the Galaxy Wide Fold. This production volume exceeds that of other specialized Samsung foldable handsets, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition, which had a reported production target of 500,000 units, and the Galaxy Tri-Fold, with 30,000 units.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that this production target suggests the Wide Fold will be a standard offering rather than a limited edition product within Samsung's foldable portfolio.
For context, Samsung sold approximately 6 million units of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in the previous year.
Industry Context and Emerging Trends
The development of the Galaxy Wide Fold, with its emphasis on a wider aspect ratio, aligns with rumored wide-screen designs for upcoming foldable devices from other manufacturers, including Apple's rumored iPhone Fold. Samsung recently announced the Galaxy Z TriFold, with units already sold in South Korea. Information regarding the Galaxy Wide Fold's anticipated launch and specifications has been reported by various sources, including ET News and supply chain channels.