Passport Galaxy Z Fold Might Be Real
Mock-up loosely based on survey design
For months, the foldable landscape has been filled with confusing whispers about Samsung’s future lineup. We’ve known for a while that a second Galaxy Z Fold model number existed alongside the standard flagships, but the details were murky.
Early reports suggested this mystery device would only be marginally wider than the current Z Fold design. As we noted previously, a seemingly insignificant increase in width made little sense and felt like a half-measure that couldn’t possibly justify its own existence without other larger changes to camera hardware, battery, etc.
Then earlier this month, leaked surveys indicated the company was actively exploring a "passport" design, shorter and significantly wider than their current offerings. Something that makes Pixel Fold fans weep.
Now, thanks to a new report out of Korea, the picture is finally coming into focus. Samsung isn't just tweaking dimensions; they are preparing a pre-emptive strike against their biggest rival.
The "Wide Fold" Strategy
According to a report from ETNews published this week, Samsung is indeed developing a distinct, separate foldable model scheduled for release in the second half of 2026. This device is tentatively referred to as the "Wide Fold" and will launch alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8.
This new model has a singular design focus: it will adopt a 4:3 aspect ratio for the inner display. This "passport" type form factor is designed to feel more like a traditional book or notepad. The report claims that Samsung has finalized the specifications for a 7.6-inch inner screen and a 5.4-inch cover display. This is a major departure from the tall, narrow 9:21 ratio seen on previous generations.
These measurements are strikingly similar to the rumored iPhone Fold.
The Apple Factor
The timing of this new design is no coincidence. The ETNews report explicitly frames the Wide Fold as a direct competitor to Apple's first foldable.
Apple is now expected to announce its foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 18 series. Industry rumors suggest that Apple's entry will also feature a 4:3 aspect ratio and a 7.58-inch inner display. According to ETNews, both companies will be launching nearly identical form factors at the exact same time.
Samsung is expanding its lineup to include one Flip and two Fold models in 2026. This three-pronged attack is a clear effort to defend its market share. By moving adding the Wide Fold design, Samsung is better equipped to cover its based and stave off Apple’s encroachment.
A Crowded Battlefield
Late 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for foldables. Samsung looks set to offer a three-pronged attack: the classic Flip, the power-user Z Fold 8 and this new wide-screen contender.
However, the battle for the best book-style foldable is not just a two-horse race between Samsung and the ghost of Apple's future device. Other players sense the opportunity. Recent reports indicate that Motorola, high on the success of their Razr+ flip phones, may also be preparing to enter the book-style foldable market soon. If Motorola can bring their recent design flair to a larger format, they might just beat both Samsung's new Wide Fold and the iPhone Fold to the punch.