Samsung’s next-generation foldable devices should officially launch in a few months, but if you were expecting a dramatic leap in display technology, you might want to reset your expectations. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, Flip 8, and Wide Fold will reportedly feature the same M13 OLED panel used in the Fold 7 (or Fold 6, for that matter).
Samsung’s M13 OLED panel has appeared more often than you might think
Before we move on, I want to give you some context about OLED panels. They are constructed by layering various light-emitting materials, including dopants, hosts and premises, as well as common layering materials. Samsung Display calls these combinations “material sets.”
These quantities of material are identified by a capital “M” followed by a number. However, the Galaxy S24 debuted with the M13 OLED panel. After launch, Samsung also used the same panel on the Fold 6, Flip 6, Fold 7 and Flip 7. Even the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus feature the two-year-old OLED panel.
Only the latest series Galaxy S26 Ultra has been upgraded to the newer M14 OLED panel. Enough with the context. The report suggests that the company’s rumored foldable devices, expected to launch in the third quarter of 2026, could feature the same M13 panel.
Why does Samsung stick with the M13 panel?
The decision could have three reasons. First, displays have already reached their performance limit, meaning they are bright enough, can switch between refresh rates, and don’t use as much power as they used to. Therefore, changing the materials (or the combinations discussed above) every year no longer brings about significant changes.
Second, the smartphone market is already quite saturated in 2026, suggesting that flashy new technologies (I’m referring to the new panel) don’t automatically lead to better sales, which is what all companies care about.
Finally, keeping the M13 OLED panel on its upcoming foldable devices will help Samsung keep prices under control. As with other components of a smartphone, introducing a new set of materials would almost certainly increase the cost.
