Fresh leaks indicate Samsung is developing a completely new foldable smartphone featuring a significantly wider display than its current Galaxy Z Fold lineup. Speculation has been mounting for months that the tech giant is testing this broader variant, potentially launching it alongside—or shortly after—the Galaxy Z Fold 8 later this year.

The device appears designed to take aim at Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, which is also rumored to sport a similar wide-screen form factor.

While hardware specifications remain thin on the ground, sources suggest the new design aims to enhance web browsing, video consumption, and multitasking productivity. This shift would address a common complaint regarding the narrow aspect ratio of previous Fold generations.

Tech communities have tentatively dubbed the device the "Galaxy Wide Fold." However, Samsung is reportedly developing the handset under the internal codename "H8", possibly carrying the model number SM-F971U.

In a telling discovery, Android Authority unearthed a system animation within One UI 9 files showing a seamless transition between the cover display and the inner screen. Notably, the aspect ratio depicted is much wider than current models, hinting at Samsung’s potential new design direction.

Although the animation may not represent the final hardware, it aligns with broader rumors of a wider prototype currently in testing. Confidence seems high within Samsung, with reports suggesting a shipment target of over one million units post-launch.

While Samsung has yet to officially confirm these plans, the mounting evidence points toward a significant strategic shift in the foldable market.