Early reports suggest that Samsung may introduce two book-style foldable phones for the first time in 2026.
It’s expected that Samsung will roll out the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 in 2026. In 2025, the company expanded its foldable lineup by releasing three devices, including the new Flip 7 FE. Now, it appears Samsung could surprise everyone with an additional book-style Galaxy Z Fold variant besides the anticipated Z Fold 8.
Two new Galaxy Z Fold models could arrive in 2026
According to a Smartprix finding, a new Samsung foldable has appeared in the GSMA database with model number SM-F971U and the internal codename “H8.” This hints that the brand is preparing another Galaxy Z Fold model for 2026 alongside the standard Z Fold 8.
To clarify, Samsung typically assigns the SM-F9 prefix to its book-style Fold series, while the Flip lineup uses the SM-F7 starting code. This strongly indicates that the newly listed device is indeed a Galaxy Z Fold model.
However, this model is completely separate from the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which carries the SM-F976 model number and the codename Q8. Smartprix suggests that this new Fold may represent a fresh category of book-style foldables from Samsung.
One notable difference between the two models is the design approach. Unlike the usual Galaxy Z Fold 8 design, the SM-F971U is rumored to be shorter and wider, offering a shorter height and a more 18:18 square-like display. This could give it a look similar to the 2023 Google Pixel Fold.
Beyond the change in shape, the still-unconfirmed model is also expected to include hardware different from the Galaxy Z Fold 8, although exact specifications remain undisclosed.
At this stage, the GSMA listing is the only solid clue available, so the information should be viewed cautiously. Samsung is already rumored to unveil its first Tri-Fold by late 2025. With Apple reportedly preparing its first foldable iPhone, Samsung may be planning multiple new foldable designs to maintain its dominance.
