Samsung Could Launch Wider Galaxy Z Fold 8 Variant Worldwide
According to ongoing industry speculation Samsung may be planning to launch not one but two Galaxy Z Fold series smartphones this year. One of these devices is widely expected to be the Galaxy Z Fold 8 while the second model is rumored to feature a noticeably wider display aspect ratio. The appearance of this wider Galaxy Z Fold variant in the GSMA database now suggests that Samsung is gearing up for a worldwide launch of the device.
The GSMA IMEI database has revealed the presence of six distinct variants of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold smartphone with a wider display. A breakdown of these variants is listed below.
- SM-F971B: Global
- SM-F971N: South Korea
- SM-F971U: US carrier locked
- SM-F971U1: US factory unlocked
- SM-F971W: Canada
- SM-F9710: China
Reports suggest that Samsung has assigned the internal code name H8 to the wider Galaxy Z Fold variant while the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 is believed to use the code name Q8. Notably, all previous Galaxy Z Fold series models have followed a consistent naming pattern using code names that start with the letter “Q.” Some examples from earlier generations are provided below.
- Galaxy Z Fold 5 (SM-F946): Q5
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 (SM-F956): Q6
- Galaxy Z Fold 7 (SM-F966): Q7
Because the upcoming device carries the internal H8 code name it appears to differ from Samsung’s existing Galaxy Z Fold lineup. Reports indicate that this model will feature a shorter and wider form factor compared to current Galaxy Z Fold smartphones. Its display aspect ratio is also rumored to be comparable to that of the upcoming foldable iPhone. The internal screen is said to feature a 1:1 (18:18) aspect ratio a change that could improve app compatibility and provide a more enjoyable viewing experience for video content.
It remains unclear whether the wider Galaxy Z Fold model will feature the same hardware specifications as the Galaxy Z Fold 8. That said reports suggest the handset will most likely be powered by premium top tier hardware.
