Samsung's next Galaxy Z Fold move could be its riskiest yet

If this leak is true, we're heading for more than one wide-style Galaxy Z Fold 8 successor.

Half-folded Galaxy Z Fold 8 on a white table.
Samsung is making plans about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 successors. | Image by PhoneArena
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The immense success of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 might have inspired Samsung to release two wide foldable phones in 2027. We've already heard that the South Korean tech giant might significantly broaden its foldables lineup in 2027, but it appears that the company is gearing up to launch two iPhone Duo rivals.

Samsung might drop two Galaxy Z Fold 8 successors



Korean tipster Lanzuk has just shared what could be an early glimpse into Samsung's plans for its Galaxy Z Fold 8 successor. It seems that the South Korean tech giant could deliver a "standard" Galaxy Z Fold 9, featuring a passport-style form factor and high-end specs, just like the Z Fold 8.

The possible launch of a second wide foldable is where things get particularly interesting. The tipster claims Samsung is considering including a Fan Edition-like version or a 'larger' model.

The two concepts are reportedly still being evaluated, though only one is rumored to eventually make it to launch. The larger model could be potentially launched as Galaxy Z Fold 9 Wide Plus, though this is a tentative name at this stage.

Meanwhile, the Fan Edition-style variant is rumored to retain roughly the same dimensions as the regular Galaxy Z Fold 9 while offering less impressive specs to keep its price down.

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Which Galaxy Z Fold 8 successor would you like to see?
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The Galaxy Z Fold 8 success was indeed remarkable


Samsung's high-end Galaxy Z Fold 8 scored remarkable success, accounting for almost 70% of all pre-orders in its home market and roughly 50% in the US, as per Counterpoint Research's August report.

These figures show that the new form factor was indeed a success for Samsung and resonated with fans. With that in mind, it's becoming much easier to see why the South Korean tech giant may be considering expanding this form factor and reaching its full potential.

A risky move



At this stage, the new Samsung strategy appears logical (given the impressive sales) but also slightly confusing.

I've recently highlighted the company's plans to cut down on Galaxy A production in Q4 and in 2027, suggesting the company is trying to address chipflation.

With that in mind, adding another foldable to its lineup could be a significant risk, especially as rising component costs threaten to push smartphone prices even higher.

The way to ensure the second Galaxy Z Fold 9 Wide's success, as I see it, would be if Samsung prioritizes the Fan Edition-level experience. If Samsung makes scales back on the specs less and significantly lowers the price below $1,899.99, the device could indeed be a success.

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