Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event on July 10th is set to reveal the latest foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Fold 6. However, there's speculation about a thinner, more premium version of the Fold 6. Although this version won't be unveiled next week, a recent report suggests it hasn't been completely shelved.
Slimmer Variant in the Works
According to TheElec, Samsung is indeed developing a slimmer version of the Z Fold 6 with larger screens. The report indicates the phone will feature a 6.5-inch cover display and an expansive 8-inch internal screen, up from the standard Z Fold 6’s rumored 6.3-inch and 7.6-inch displays respectively.
Limited Launch and Production
This slimmer Z Fold 6 is reportedly slated for a fourth-quarter 2024 release, with a limited production run of 400,000 to 500,000 units. Its availability will be restricted, with China being one of the few rumored markets.
Samsung aims to showcase the ability to create a thinner foldable phone compared to its current models. However, this slimmer profile has reportedly come at the expense of S Pen support, as the digitizer needed for stylus functionality has been omitted.
Higher-End Specs and Development Timeline
TheElec’s report also hints at higher-end specifications for this variant, but details remain undisclosed. Earlier rumors suggested a possible camera upgrade for the slimmer Z Fold 6 compared to the standard model, although the report does not confirm this.
A source within Samsung’s supply chain indicates that development for the slimmer Z Fold 6 started in Q1 2024. Given Samsung’s typical year-long development cycle for high-end phones, a delayed launch compared to the standard Z Fold 6 aligns with this timeline.
With larger screens and potentially more powerful specs, the slimmer Z Fold 6 is expected to come with a higher price tag than its standard counterpart. Samsung’s strategy appears to aim for a premium foldable experience for a select market, while the standard Z Fold 6 appeals to a broader audience.
