Samsung is planning a significant design update for its next-generation Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8, with the primary focus being on making the devices thinner. The move is directly linked to concerns about Apple entering the foldable smartphone market with the rumored iPhone Fold in 2026.

According to Korean outlet The Bell, Samsung’s push for a slimmer Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 is both a response to broader market trends. While the Galaxy Z Fold 7 saw a significant reduction in thickness and weight compared to its predecessor, the Z Flip 7 did not receive similar changes, resulting in a performance that fell short of sales expectations. This has led Samsung to implement a more aggressive approach to design updates for its upcoming foldable.

Is Samsung worried about the iPhone Fold?

The report says that Samsung may be worried about Apple’s entry into the foldable market. The company reportedly believes that a foldable iPhone could either boost overall sales or pull away from Samsung’s user base. By enhancing the portability and ergonomics of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Samsung aims to differentiate its offering and maintain its market share. For reference, the Samsung Galaxy Fold 7 is 8.9 mm thick and weighs 215 grams. This was a major reduction from the 12mm-thick Galaxy Z Fold 6.

The Galaxy Z Flip line is also being looked at, with the Flip 8 expected to be at least 10% thinner and lighter than the Flip 7. The report suggests that the Flip 8 could weigh around 170 grams and be around 6mm thin when opened and 12mm thin when closed. Samsung is targeting combined sales of 6.7 million units for the Flip 8 and Fold 8, which is a 10% increase over the previous generation.

Both devices will likely be launched in mid-2026.

Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold, here’s what we know

Samsung is expanding its foldable lineup with a triple-folding phone. The device was showcased at the APEC summit in South Korea. According to tipster @Evleaks, the device will be called Galaxy Z TriFold. The Galaxy Z Trifold will reportedly come with a 200-megapixel main camera sensor as part of the triple rear camera setup. When unfolded, the Z Trifold is likely to reveal a 6.5-inch external display and a massive 10-inch internal display.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold will use a Qualcomm chipset, possibly the Snapdragon 8 Elite from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The phone will also reportedly have a 5,437mAh battery. According to reports, the device can be launched on December 5 with an estimated price of $2,999 (approximately Rs 2,65,000).