Samsung is evaluating expanding its line of foldable devices next year with the introduction of a more economical model. According to a recent supply chain leak in South Korea, the manufacturer is considering launching a second foldable smartphone in a wider format, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, as current sales of the device exceeded expectations.
The company is weighing two possibilities: creating a version with a larger internal screen or developing a model with dimensions similar to the Z Fold 8 but featuring simplified specifications and, consequently, a reduced price. Only one of these approaches would be brought to market.
The names Galaxy Z Fold 9 Plus and Galaxy Z Fold 9 FE were considered for this new device. Furthermore, the Z family may grow even more next year, as the South Korean company plans to launch not only the basic and Ultra models but also this hypothetical third version, along with a second generation of the Galaxy Z TriFold during the same period. Conversely, the Galaxy Z Flip risks being discontinued.
The decision to evaluate a second 'passport-style' model was driven by the strong commercial performance of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Although the manufacturer does not release individual sales data, GSMArena reported that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra combined sold 45% more units in Europe in the first nine weeks compared to the previous generation in the same period after launch.
This expansion of the lineup occurs amid growing competition among similarly shaped foldables. This competition began with the launch of the Huawei Pura X Max in April but is expected to intensify with the arrival of the iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable.
There are also rumors indicating that the Cupertino giant is planning versions in different formats and with more basic configurations for upcoming launch cycles.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 was made available in Brazil in August, featuring a 7.6-inch LTPO AMOLED internal screen and a 5.5-inch external panel. Its main features include these specifications.