Samsung appears to be developing a specialized version of its next foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, that could resurrect a fan-favorite feature — the S Pen. This move seems driven primarily by competition from a major rival, widely assumed to be Apple and its anticipated foldable device.
Revisiting the S Pen and a New Form Factor
In our Galaxy Z Fold 7 review, we noted Samsung’s controversial decision to remove native S Pen support in pursuit of a slimmer, sleeker profile. However, a trusted insider now claims that variants of the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 are undergoing testing with S Pen compatibility.
While the standard Z Fold 8 will most likely maintain its slender design and lack of stylus support, Samsung may introduce a separate "Wide" version. This new variant would boast a larger 7.6-inch inner display with a squarer 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded — a form factor ideal for multitasking and stylus work.
How Samsung's Rumored "Wide" Fold Measures Up
- Samsung "Wide" Fold: 7.6-inch inner display / 5.4-inch outer display
- Apple "iPhone Fold": 7.58-inch inner display / 5.35-inch outer display
Why the Shift Matters Now
Apple’s rumored foldable device, tentatively named the iPhone Fold, reportedly adopts a squarer 4:3 aspect ratio that enhances multitasking capabilities and is naturally suited for stylus input. Samsung’s move to offer a wider foldable with S Pen support seems aimed at preempting Apple from defining the “pro” foldable category as they enter the market.
Samsung’s current tall and narrow fold design may not fully compete with Apple’s expansive foldable screen real estate. The addition of a "Wide" foldable model could reposition Samsung as the leader in foldable productivity devices.
Community Poll: Preferred Foldable Aspect Ratios
The Passport Aspect Ratio: A Foldable Sweet Spot
Many foldable enthusiasts praise the passport-style 4:3 aspect ratio for maximizing productivity and usability. The rumored Wide Fold aligns closely with this concept, presenting more balanced screen dimensions compared to previous Samsung models.
While dropping S Pen support on the Z Fold 7 disappointed the "Ultra" users, Samsung’s potential return to stylus compatibility in a dedicated model could revitalize the foldable experience. Although multiple versions like the Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip may seem complex, combining Samsung’s software expertise with proven hardware features like the S Pen makes for an enticing proposition.
If this new Wide Fold hits the market alongside the likes of Google’s Pixel Fold and the OnePlus Open, it might just be the versatile productivity device many have been waiting for — even if the impending Apple foldable was the catalyst behind its creation.
