Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Might Bring a Surprise Change in Hardware

Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Z Fold7, which is its thinnest and lightest foldable phone so far. But even before the excitement settles, rumors about its next foldable phone—the Galaxy Z Fold8—have already started coming from South Korea.

If Samsung follows its usual pattern, the Galaxy Z Fold8 should launch around July next year. But now, early reports suggest that the Fold8 might bring a surprising change in its design.

Samsung is said to be testing two materials for the backplate of the Fold8: titanium and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). While CFRP was used in earlier models like the Fold3, Fold4, and Fold5, Samsung used titanium for the Fold7 to make it thinner. Along with removing the S Pen’s digitizer, the Fold7 became 0.6mm thinner than before.

However, using metal like titanium can interfere with the S Pen’s performance. To solve this, Samsung is now working on a slimmer digitizer that could bring back S Pen support in the Fold8. There’s also a chance Samsung may switch to a different S Pen technology—similar to Apple Pencil—which doesn’t get affected by metal.

Another reason Samsung is testing new materials is due to concerns about supply issues, especially with ongoing trade tensions like the US tariff war. Samsung wants to be prepared in case there are any sudden changes in the supply chain.

Since the Fold8 is still many months away, these are early rumors and plans may change. We’ll keep you updated as more information comes out.

Via