Samsung’s secret ‘Wide’ Galaxy Z Fold foldable shows up in its own software
Source: Android Authority
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
TL;DR
- One UI 9 firmware code explicitly references a “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold.
- The new
WideFoldModelflag suggests a device that opens horizontally rather than vertically, prioritizing a wider aspect ratio.
Samsung’s “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold Leak
A recent One UI 9 test build adds credibility to rumors that Samsung is working on a new foldable form factor. The firmware contains a device category explicitly referenced as a landscape‑style foldable.
Code Reference
isWideFoldModel = !z && semFloatingFeature.getBoolean(
"SEC_FLOATING_FEATURE_FRAMEWORK_SUPPORT_FOLDABLE_TYPE_LANDSCAPE_FOLD"
);The isWideFoldModel flag checks whether the device supports a landscape‑oriented fold, indicating a design that opens horizontally rather than the traditional vertical “book” style.
Existing Foldable Feature Flags
Samsung currently uses feature flags to categorize its foldables:
TYPE_FOLD– standard book‑style devices (e.g., Galaxy Z Fold series).TYPE_MULTIFOLD– more complex mechanisms such as tri‑fold designs (e.g., Galaxy Z TriFold).
The appearance of a third category, WideFoldModel, suggests a new approach focused on a wider outer display.
Potential Benefits
A landscape‑first fold could address a common complaint about the current Z Fold series: the narrow outer screen. A wider display opened by default would be advantageous for:
- Video playback
- Gaming
- Multitasking
- Typing on a larger virtual keyboard
Launch Timing and Naming
The leak does not confirm when the device will launch or what it will be called. It could be marketed as a “Galaxy Z Fold Wide,” a special edition, or an entirely new product line. Adding a new foldable category to the OS indicates that Samsung is preparing for such a device, rather than merely reserving a placeholder.
⚠️ An APK teardown can predict future features based on work‑in‑progress code, but there’s no guarantee that these features will appear in a public release.