Summary of Samsung plans five foldables for 2027: Two wide folds lead the Z9 lineup
- Samsung is developing five distinct foldable phones for its 2027 Galaxy Z9 generation, according to supply chain reports.
- Two of those models will be "wide fold" book-style devices, one of which is specifically designed for wide-screen video playback.
- The Galaxy Z Fold 8's record 39 percent pre-order increase and 1.44 million units sold in South Korea is driving the push for wider screens.
- The Z9 lineup will include a clamshell Flip, standard Fold, Fold Ultra, a video-tailored wide fold, and a tri-fold smartphone.
- These devices are still in early development, so screen sizes and launch dates may change before release.
What is a wide fold, and why now?
Samsung's foldable phone lineup could look very different next year. According to information shared with supply chain partners and reported by a South Korean outlet, the company is developing five foldable devices for the Galaxy Z9 generation in 2027. The big news is that two of those devices will be "wide fold" models built around a wider unfolded screen.
The push for wider foldables comes straight from the sales floor. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, which launched with a squarish 4:3 aspect ratio when opened, has been a massive hit. In South Korea, the Fold 8 accounted for roughly 70 percent of total pre-orders for the entire Z8 foldable generation. Those pre-orders reached 1.44 million units, a 39 percent jump compared to the Z7 generation. That kind of success makes it easy to see why Samsung wants to offer more wide-screen options.
Two wide folds, one big difference
What this means for Samsung plans five foldables for 2027
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 already shifted to a wider inner display. When you unfold it, you get a square-like 4:3 ratio that works well for multitasking and reading. The new wide fold model planned for the Z9 series takes that idea further. This second device is being designed with an aspect ratio tailored specifically for wide-screen video playback on the inner display. Think movies, shows, and YouTube content that fill the screen without giant black bars on the top and bottom.
This means Samsung is trying to appeal to two different kinds of foldable buyers. The standard wide fold will stay close to the Fold 8's layout, which balances reading and productivity. The video-tailored model will stretch the screen even wider for a more cinematic experience. It sounds like a small difference, but it could be a big deal for anyone who watches a lot of video on their phone.
Five foldables in 2027: The full picture
If these plans go through, Samsung's 2027 foldable lineup will include five distinct models. Here is what insiders say is in development:
- Galaxy Z Flip 9: The clamshell-style foldable that folds down small.
- Galaxy Z Fold 9: The standard book-style foldable with a wide inner screen.
- Galaxy Z Fold 9 Ultra: A larger or more premium version of the Fold.
- Second wide fold (Z9 variant): A book-style foldable tuned for wide-screen video playback.
- Tri-fold smartphone: A device that folds in two places to create a much larger screen.
That is a lot of different shapes and sizes. And this does not even include the rollable slate that Samsung is also said to be working on. That device would bring the total number of screens that bend, fold, or roll to six.
Will the lineup be too crowded for buyers?
Having two wide book-style foldables carries some risk. If both devices have similar screen sizes and prices, customers might struggle to tell them apart. Samsung is hoping that the different aspect ratios will create clear value for different types of users. The square-ish Fold will target people who split their screen for work or reading. The video-wide model will target people who want a mini cinema in their pocket.
The tri-fold model is a separate experiment. It would fold twice, turning into a tablet-sized screen that is larger than any current foldable. Competing phones from other brands have already shown that tri-folds can work, but they tend to be heavy and expensive. Samsung's version could change the game for multitasking and media consumption, but it will need to nail the durability and weight trade-offs.
When can you expect to buy one?
Samsung is reportedly working with its supply chain partners on these projects right now. However, because development is at an early stage, specific display dimensions and final release dates are subject to change. Do not expect to see all five devices at the same event. Samsung typically unveils its main foldables in August, so a staggered launch across 2027 is possible.
If you are looking to buy a foldable phone today, the reviews for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 paint a clear picture of what the current wide-screen experience is like. It is a strong device that helped drive those record pre-orders. But if you are willing to wait, next year's lineup promises more choices than ever.
Five foldables and two wide folds: What it means for you
The Galaxy Z Fold 8's record pre-orders have told Samsung something important: people want wider screens on their foldables. By planning two wide fold models in 2027, Samsung is betting that choice will drive even more sales. The video-tailored model could be the standout option for anyone who uses their phone as a primary entertainment device. But with so many form factors on the way, the biggest challenge might be helping buyers pick the right one. Keep an eye on our phone directory and best phones pages as more details emerge in the coming months.