According to reports from the GSMA database, Samsung is reportedly preparing to expand its foldable lineup.
A device with the model number SM-F971U has surfaced, and reports now suggest it may not be the budget Flip model that earlier leaks mentioned.
The details suggest that Samsung may introduce a second Galaxy Z Fold 8 variant in 2026.
As per the SmartPrix report, the SM-F971U model number aligns with Samsung’s structure for the Fold series rather than the Flip series.
Samsung has used the SM-F7xx format for Flip devices and the SM-F9xx format for Fold devices.
Because of this pattern, the new F97x prefix supports the claim that this device is part of the Fold series and not of the flip series.
The listing also includes the codename H8, which does not follow the naming sequence of the main Fold series.
Samsung’s previous Folds have used a specific internal order:
The upcoming codename of Samsung indicates it may be developing another Fold model that will launch alongside the standard Galaxy Fold 8 model.
The model number of the new series ends with a ‘U’, which suggests that the device listed is the US version. Samsung typically releases additional variants for other regions, including Europe and South Korea.
The early appearance of the US model as compared to the others hints that the company is focusing on this market first, where competition with Apple is significant.
Samsung may also be preparing this wider design as a response to another report that says Apple is planning to introduce its first foldable iPhone in 2026, which is also expected to feature a compact and wide form factor.
As per the reports received from South Korea earlier this year, Samsung is working on a wider foldable model. The SM-F971U listing now appears to match that project.
Early details point towards a shorter and wider cover display that may adopt an 18:9 aspect ratio. The inner screen could be an 18:18 layout by merging two 18:9 panels, resulting in a near-square workspace.
This design could offer a wider front screen when closed, addressing the user feedback about the narrow cover display on previous Fold devices.
Also Read: Samsung Launches Galaxy Z TriFold, Its First Triple-Folding Smartphone
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