Samsung’s Galaxy Foldable vs. iPhone Ultra: The Battle of the Titans

For years, Apple has been rumored to be developing its first foldable iPhone. However, Samsung appears to be on track to beat them to the punch.

The Korean tech giant has quietly been working on a new foldable device, tentatively named the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide, set to be released in the summer of 2026. This launch would be a month or two ahead of Apple’s expected iPhone Ultra foldable debut in September. Interestingly, both phones are rumored to have a similar size and aspect ratio.

It’s important to note that these details are currently based on leaks from the supply chain and are not confirmed.

The Significance of the New Aspect Ratio

While the aspect ratio of a phone screen may not seem like a major factor, it can significantly impact the mobile user experience. The 4:3 screen format enhances tasks such as reading documents, browsing websites, and watching videos. This aspect ratio, commonly found in tablets, is known for its productivity benefits, and soon users will have access to this format in a foldable device that can easily fit in a pocket.

Having a tablet-sized screen on a foldable phone could make split-screen multitasking more intuitive. Apps running side by side will not appear cramped, and there will be no unsightly letterboxing when streaming videos. When the device is closed, users will have a wider, shorter cover display, resembling the form factor of traditional handheld devices.

Apple’s upcoming iPhone Fold is expected to feature a 7.8-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, offering a nearly square shape that differs from the tall, narrow foldable designs currently on the market. The device is designed to provide a more tablet-like experience when unfolded, resembling an iPad mini.

Samsung is deeply involved in these advancements, with industry leaks suggesting that they are manufacturing the screens for Apple’s foldable device. Samsung Display is poised to supply over 11 million OLED panels for the foldable iPhone.

Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Samsung’s upcoming Z Fold 8 Wide is expected to feature the same 4:3 display aspect ratio. The key difference is that it will sport a 7.6-inch inner display and a wider outer screen. With specifications closely aligned with Apple’s rumored device, it appears to be a strategic competitive move by Samsung.

Samsung has a track record in this area, evident with the Galaxy Z TriFold that launched in December 2025. This device unfolds to reveal a large 10-inch screen with a 16:11 aspect ratio, similar to the 4:3 ratio seen on iPads. This aspect ratio allows for seamless multitasking across three apps without feeling restricted.

Britta O’Boyle

The TriFold supports Samsung DeX, enabling users to switch to desktop mode when a Bluetooth keyboard is connected. Interestingly, while Apple’s foldable device is expected to offer productivity features reminiscent of the iPad, it will not run iPadOS.

The Innovation of Creaseless Displays

Another key design element to consider is the presence of a crease in foldable displays, which has been a common issue in previous models. The visibility of the crease on the inner display has been a sign that foldable technology is still evolving. Apple’s reported delay in entering the foldable market is attributed to their commitment to resolving this issue before launch.

During CES 2026, Samsung showcased a creaseless OLED display panel, similar to what the iPhone Fold is expected to feature. While not in the 4:3 ratio, the display boasted a smooth surface without any visible creases, a significant improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Collaborating closely with Apple on high display standards may have given Samsung an advantage, propelling their research and development efforts forward rapidly.

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The Competition in the Foldable Market

With major players like Samsung and Apple shaping the future of foldable devices in 2026, it’s likely that the industry will witness significant changes. Trends set by these companies often lead to widespread adoption across the market. The transition to a more app-friendly square form factor could become the new norm, potentially moving foldables from a niche to a mainstream phone format sooner than expected.