As the foldable phone market prepares for its most significant shake-up yet, a new leak suggests Samsung is not waiting idly for Apple's entrance. Fresh details have emerged about a rumored Samsung device, codenamed the "Galaxy Z Wide Fold," which appears to be a direct, pre-emptive response designed to compete with Apple's own long-rumored foldable iPhone on its own terms. This strategic move highlights the intensifying battle for dominance in the high-end smartphone segment and signals a potential shift in foldable design philosophy.
A New Form Factor Inspired by the Competition
According to a report from South Korea's ETNews, Samsung is developing a new foldable phone with the tentative name "Galaxy Z Wide Fold." Unlike the company's established Galaxy Z Fold line, which features a tall, book-like design when unfolded, the Wide Fold is said to adopt a much wider, tablet-like form factor. The key change is the aspect ratio of the inner display, which is reported to be 4:3. This design is a significant departure from Samsung's current foldables and is notably similar to the dimensions and proportions recently leaked for Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone. The move suggests Samsung is aiming to offer a familiar and potentially popular form factor to consumers ahead of Apple's launch, attempting to capture early adopter interest.
Reported Specifications: Samsung Galaxy Z Wide Fold vs. Apple Foldable iPhone (Rumored)
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Wide Fold (Rumored) | Apple Foldable iPhone (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Display Size | 7.6 inches | 7.58 inches |
| Inner Display Aspect Ratio | 4:3 | 4:3 |
| Outer Display Size | 5.4 inches | 5.49 inches |
| Key Differentiator | Design & 25W wireless charging | Brand, ecosystem, software |
| Expected Launch | Fall 2026 | Fall 2026 |
Data synthesized from translated reports by ETNews and iPhone Ticker.
Specifications and a Three-Pronged Foldable Strategy
The leaked specifications for the Galaxy Z Wide Fold paint a picture of a device built for direct comparison. Its inner display is rumored to measure 7.6 inches, while the outer cover screen would be 5.4 inches. For context, Apple's foldable iPhone is also rumored to have a 7.58-inch inner display. Industry sources cited in the report suggest the wider 4:3 aspect ratio offers improved stability for two-handed use, better balance when opened like a book, and a superior experience for reading and media consumption. Furthermore, the Wide Fold is expected to debut 25W wireless charging, a feature slated to first appear on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Crucially, Samsung reportedly plans to launch this model alongside, not instead of, its traditional Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip models next year, creating a three-device foldable portfolio to blanket the market.
Samsung's Reported 2026 Foldable Lineup Strategy
- Galaxy Z Flip: Continuation of the clamshell-style foldable.
- Galaxy Z Fold 8: Successor to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, expected to retain its tall aspect ratio.
- Galaxy Z Wide Fold: New model with a wide, 4:3 aspect ratio inner display, designed as a direct competitor to Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone.
The Strategic Battle for Foldable Mindshare
This development underscores a fascinating strategic pivot for Samsung. For years, it has defined the mainstream foldable phone category with its distinct tall design. The creation of a "Wide Fold" model, so closely mirroring Apple's rumored specs, indicates a willingness to adapt its strategy based on competitive intelligence. By launching a similar device potentially concurrently with or before Apple's entry, Samsung aims to establish itself as the provider of that specific form factor, complicating Apple's market entry narrative. However, this reactive approach carries risks, as seen with the reportedly quick cancellation of the Galaxy S25 Edge following the iPhone Air's launch. The success of the Wide Fold will likely depend on its execution, pricing, and whether the wider 4:3 foldable design truly resonates with consumers more than the established tall format.
The Future of Foldables Hinges on 2026
The anticipated clash between Samsung's Wide Fold and Apple's first foldable iPhone, both rumored for a late 2026 release, is set to be a defining moment for the category. It represents a shift from a market with a de facto design leader to one with competing visions. Consumers will ultimately decide which form factor—the tall book-style fold or the wider notebook-style fold—offers the better balance of portability and utility. Samsung's leaked plan to offer both options is a clever hedge, but it also sets the stage for 2026 to be the most competitive and innovative year for foldable phones yet, with the potential to finally push the technology into the mainstream consciousness.