What you need to know
- Rumors about a “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold return, with a report claiming more model numbers were spotted, potentially detailing where it could launch.
- A leak states the phone could debut in China and Korea; however, numbers for the U.S., Canada, and global regions were discovered, too.
- Earlier rumors claimed that Samsung was looking to create a wider Galaxy Z Fold that could feature an 18:18 aspect ratio internal display.
It’s been a while since there have been any rumors about Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold alternate this year, but a new report brings it back with launch location speculation.
The folks at SmartPrix updated an older post with rumors about Samsung’s alleged “wide” Galaxy Z Fold 8 (via Android Authority). The publication states it discovered a GSMA IMEI database listing for Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 alternate model this week. There’s very little information about the device in the listing, other than reports that it could be a wide-screen device.
However, the root of the leak is that the listing seemingly shows where the device is headed.
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The post highlights various model numbers, which are reportedly headed for regions like China and Korea. There were more numbers located for markets in the U.S., Canada, as well as “globally.” The updated post states that the model numbers in the database bear variations of SM-F971, which aligns with previous rumors for the alleged “Wide” Fold.
Samsung’s going wide
(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
This is the second time a leak regarding the GSMA database has surfaced for this phone. The first was late last year, when a listing was discovered with model number SM-F971. Rumors first got started about a potential “Wide” Fold when an overseas report claimed Samsung was chasing a “second Galaxy Z Fold” with an even larger display.
Speculation claims such a device would feature an 18:18 screen ratio for its internal display. To visualize this, an aspect ratio of this caliber would produce a screen that’s larger horizontally, not vertically. Reports continued late last year, as another post claims Samsung is focusing its efforts on a wide model due to Apple’s potential foldable phone.
Rumors add that Samsung’s summer could include three foldables: the Galaxy Z Flip 8, Fold 8, and “Wide” Fold 8.
Android Central’s Take
We’ve all but forgotten this “Wide” Fold was even a thing, and its timing is funny (kind of). There were reports recently that Samsung is looking to shift its production to the Fold, increasing its production units over the Flip. Samsung saw success with the Fold 7, and I was tempted by that device. I almost grabbed that over the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The company made good moves with its upgrades, and if Samsung is seeing a shift in consumer interest toward this large screen phones, maybe it’s cooking this year. Time will surely tell.
