Foldable iPhone vs Galaxy Z Fold 8: Can Apple's First Try Beat Samsung's 2026 Flagship? |
SAN FRANCISCO — As the foldable smartphone market matures in 2026, all eyes are on Apple's long-awaited entry into the category. Rumors suggest the company's first foldable device — potentially dubbed the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra — could launch in September or December alongside or shortly after the iPhone 18 lineup, directly challenging Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected in July.
Samsung has dominated book-style foldables since debuting the original Galaxy Fold in 2019, refining hinges, displays and software over seven generations. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 brought notable improvements in thinness and lightness, but the upcoming Z Fold 8 — and a rumored wider "Wide Fold" variant — aims to address lingering complaints like visible creases, battery life and camera capabilities.
Apple, known for entering markets late but often redefining them, has taken years to perfect its foldable. Analysts say the device will feature a book-style design with a 7.8-inch inner OLED display and a 5.5-inch outer screen when folded. Early dummy models and leaks point to an ultra-slim profile: roughly 9-9.5 mm thick when closed and as thin as 4.5-4.8 mm when unfolded, potentially making it one of the slimmest foldables yet.
Display and Crease: Apple's Potential Edge
One of the biggest differentiators could be the display. Samsung has made strides with dual ultra-thin glass (UTG) layers and laser-drilled supports on the Z Fold 8 to reduce creasing, but a noticeable fold line often remains. Apple is rumored to prioritize a near-crease-free experience using advanced ultra-thin glass or coating technologies, possibly licensed or developed in-house. Supply chain reports suggest the inner screen could feel closer to a traditional flat panel, enhancing the tablet-like experience when unfolded.
The aspect ratio also aligns closely with Samsung's rumored Wide Fold variant, shifting toward a more square 4:3 inner display for better productivity and media consumption........