Folks at Android Authority have put together an animation from an early version of One UI 9, Samsung’s version of Android 17, and it shows us the new form factor and design of the rumored Wide Fold.
The outlet has shared what appears to be an introductory device animation depicting a swipe gesture on the title screen that reveals a list-like content, then the handset unfolds and the content expands on the main screen.
A familiar animation, but an unfamiliar form
What other details does the animation reveal? First, the Wide Fold’s cover could feature a punch-hole camera in the middle. It would have a more boxy profile and not the rounded edges we are used to seeing in non-foldable smartphones.
As the phone unfolds, we can also see a punch-hole camera on the main screen (top center right half). However, it’s the shape and size of the phone, as well as its unusual appearance, that stand out to me the most.
Previously, Samsung’s foldable devices had a fairly tall external screen and a wide, book-style internal screen.
While it offers more than enough screen real estate for multitasking and productivity, it doesn’t have the most user-friendly aspect ratio for modern content (on both YouTube and OTT platforms).
A big change in Samsung’s foldable philosophy
As shown in the animation, the title screen appears significantly shorter and wider than the tall, narrow outer displays of existing Galaxy Z Fold models.
Based on the proportions shown, the outer display appears to be closer to a 16:10 aspect ratio (height to width) in portrait mode, rather than the elongated 20:9 screens Samsung typically uses.
The interior display is very close to 3:4 (height-to-width), is only slightly narrower and has a distinct tablet-like feel when opened. Unlike the Fold 7’s interior screen, the Wide Fold’s isn’t shaped like a square.
What does this mean for users?
Well, the outer screen should feel more like a regular phone and have a wider keyboard (which means fewer typos).
The inner screen, on the other hand, is intended to offer a better experience when viewing content (without the horizontal bars at the top and bottom).
Given that the Wide Fold’s animation is buried deep in the One UI 9 trial, it’s safe to conclude that Samsung plans to unveil the device alongside the Fold 8 and Flip 8 at the Galaxy Unpacked event in the third quarter of the year (likely July or August 2026).
