Ryan Haines / Android Authority
TL;DR One UI 9 firmware code explicitly references a “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold.
The new “ WideFoldModel ” flag suggests a device that opens horizontally rather than vertically, prioritizing a wider aspect ratio.
Samsung isn’t slowing down with its foldable phones. While many have been focused on the Galaxy Z TriFold, a new leak from the One UI 9 test build confirms that a “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold is in development.
The test build adds credibility to rumors that Samsung is working on a new form factor. We’ve spotted this evidence straight from the One UI 9 firmware, where a new device category is explicitly referenced. In the code string below, Samsung uses a flag labeled:
Code Copy Text isWideFoldModel = !z && semFloatingFeature.getBoolean("SEC_FLOATING_FEATURE_FRAMEWORK_SUPPORT_FOLDABLE_TYPE_LANDSCAPE_FOLD");
The code snippet shows a variable called isWideFoldModel, which checks whether the device supports a landscape-style fold. In other words, this isn’t your typical Galaxy Z Fold that opens vertically like a book. This appears to be something designed around a landscape-first layout.
Samsung already uses feature flags to categorize its foldable devices. The document lists two current types: TYPE_FOLD, which covers the standard book-style foldables, and TYPE_MULTIFOLD, which likely refers to more complex folding mechanisms such as tri-fold designs like the Galaxy Z TriFold. Now, a third category has appeared: WideFoldModel.
If you’ve kept up with foldables in recent years, you know that one common complaint about the Galaxy Z Fold is its narrow outer display. It functions, but it doesn’t offer much space.
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