The ‘Wide’ Galaxy Z Fold Emerges Again..
We might finally be getting the Samsung foldable form factor that many enthusiasts have spent years asking for. A mysterious new Samsung device has surfaced in the GSMA database with the model number SM-F971U and it points toward a major shift in Samsung’s strategy for 2026.
This isn’t just a routine update or a cheaper "Fan Edition" model. The details suggest Samsung is preparing to launch a completely separate high-end foldable alongside the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8.
The Evidence in the Model Number
The discovery comes from a listing for a device carrying the model number SM-F971U. For those who follow Samsung’s internal naming conventions, this specific combination of numbers tells a clear story. The "F9" prefix strictly belongs to the Fold series, debunking early theories that this could be a cheaper Galaxy Z Flip 8 FE. Additionally, the "U" suffix confirms this specific unit is being tested for the US market.
What makes this interesting is how it sits alongside other known devices. We already know the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 is in development under the codename "Q8" with the model number SM-F976. This newly discovered SM-F971 bears the internal codename "H8" which indicates a parallel flagship project rather than a successor or a budget alternative.
A New "Wide" Form Factor
The primary differentiator for this "H8" device appears to be its shape. Earlier reports indicate Samsung is targeting a design that is shorter vertically but significantly wider horizontally than the current Z Fold series.
This aligns with recent discussions in the tech community about a shift toward "widescreen" foldables. The leaks suggest Samsung is aiming for an inner display aspect ratio of roughly 1:1, or a perfect square. To achieve this, the cover screen would need to adopt a roughly 2:1 aspect ratio.
This design would solve one of the longest-standing complaints about the Galaxy Z Fold line: the narrow cover screen. While the Z Fold 6 and rumored Z Fold 7 have made small steps toward widening the display, they still retain a tall, remote-like footprint. The SM-F971U seems designed to offer a cover screen that feels even more like a traditional smartphone.
The Fold 7 is already pretty close to the 10 Pro Fold..
A Preimptive Apple Strike?
Rumors surrounding Apple’s first foldable iPhone, tentatively slated for late 2026, have consistently pointed to a "short and wide" form factor as well. Leaks suggest Apple is testing a device with a roughly 7.58-inch inner display and a 5.38-inch outer display, creating a footprint similar to a folding iPad Mini. This form factor might sound similar to what we’re talking about here, but in reality, it’s much different. This rumored phone is very short and wide whereas what Samsung might be up to looks more like a Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Personally, this is what makes this rumor so hard for me to take at face value. The Pixel Fold and Z Fold 7 are already quite similar. Why would Samsung want to make a second folder that is slightly wider? For this to be true, their almost certainly has to be more to the story. Perhaps this device will be cheaper or perhaps it will come with improved camera hardware and be more premium. Time will tell.
Looking Ahead
We are likely looking at a 2026 release for this device, which places it alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8. While that is still a ways off, the appearance of the SM-F971U in the GSMA database confirms that hardware testing is already underway. If you have been holding out for a Samsung device with a normal-sized front screen or if you are watching the iPhone rumors with interest the "H8" project is the one to watch.