The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold remains a leading contender in the foldable phone market, making the anticipation for a Galaxy Z Fold 6 almost inevitable. Preliminary rumors suggest that Samsung is actively designing its next-generation foldables, focusing on a slimmer profile and an expanded display. This optimism hints at a potential 2024 release for the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
An entry-level Galaxy Z Fold 6 variant is in the works
Interestingly, reports from The Elec and ET News indicate that Samsung might introduce a more affordable version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6. This model reportedly codenamed Q6a, contrasts with previous versions by potentially offering a lower price point through compromises in processor performance, display quality, and battery life. Despite these reductions, the camera system is expected to be nearly identical to its predecessors, featuring a dual-camera setup.
Conversely, there are whispers about this model possibly being a high-end “Ultra” variant instead. Sources like WinFuture and Galaxy Club suggest this premium model might be exclusive to South Korea, a fascinating twist in the ongoing narrative of Samsung’s foldable lineup.
Samsung’s release schedule has been quite predictable, with launches typically occurring in early August. However, Sammobile suggests an earlier launch date for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, possibly July 10, 2024, to align with the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. This strategic timing could leverage the global event for promotional gain.
Rumors also suggest significant design changes for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, such as a wider cover display that aligns more closely with conventional smartphones, and a possibly thinner and lighter build featuring titanium. These modifications could enhance both aesthetics and durability.
Rumored Galaxy Z Fold 6 Specs
Display and Design
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is set to break from the traditional design of its predecessors, potentially sporting a new aspect ratio that aligns more closely with conventional smartphones. Leaks suggest a wider and possibly thinner device with squared-off edges, enhancing its usability and aesthetic appeal.
Noteworthy leaks from SmartPrix and tipster Steve ‘OnLeaks’ Hemmerstoffer highlight a device with a broader cover display. Further insights from leakers such as Revegnus and Ross Young point to larger displays for both the foldable and cover screens, with the cover display possibly expanding to 6.4 inches diagonally.
Moreover, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 may embrace a more robust and premium feel with a titanium build and could come in new color options like Dark Blue, Light Pink, and Silver. Despite its advanced features, the new model is expected to omit the S Pen slot, signaling a shift in design priorities. These changes suggest Samsung is pushing the boundaries of its foldable technology to offer a sleeker, more refined user experience.
Camera
Twitter leaker Revegnus recently shared that while the Galaxy Z Fold 6 might retain the same image sensor as its predecessor, the Fold 5, there are also rumors suggesting it could upgrade to the same 200MP primary camera found in the S24 Ultra. This would represent a significant boost in camera resolution. However, conflicting reports, such as one from GalaxyClub, indicate that Samsung plans to equip the Fold 6 with a 50MP primary camera, the same as in the Galaxy S24, with no confirmation on the 200MP upgrade. The camera setup is expected to remain similar to the Fold 5, featuring a 50MP primary camera, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens.
Under the Hood
In terms of performance, leaker Chun VN suggests that the Fold 6 could be powered by the newer Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, aligning with Samsung’s trend of updating the chipset annually. Additionally, it’s rumored that the new model will boast a slightly larger 4,600mAh battery, up from the 4,400mAh in the Fold 5, and improvements to the under-display camera on the inner screen.
Further enhancing its specs, yeux1122 on Naver reports that the Fold 6’s battery capacity will see a 5% increase, and the under-display selfie camera will feature improved aperture and aesthetics. The device might also offer up to 16GB of RAM and as much as 1TB of storage, though these details remain unconfirmed.
Ross Young, another credible source, recently noted on the social platform X that the upcoming Fold 6 lineup will include options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage variants, catering to a range of user needs.
Cheaper Galaxy Z Fold 6 Rumored Specs
According to a report from ET News, Samsung is considering significant modifications to its Galaxy Z Fold series by introducing a more affordable version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6. This budget-friendly model is expected to forgo some features, such as S Pen compatibility, which means it won’t include the necessary digitizer for stylus input, effectively removing the ability to use an S Pen with the device. This change, along with potential alterations to other components, aims to reduce costs and lower the entry price.
For enthusiasts of the S Pen, the good news is that the premium version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is likely to retain this feature. Those willing to invest more can still enjoy the full functionality of the S Pen with the higher-end model, ensuring that the premium experience remains intact for users who value this feature.
Rumored Pricing
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a pricing structure that starts at $1,799.99 for the 12GB/256GB model, climbs to $1,919.99 for the 512GB version, and peaks at $2,159.99 for the 1TB model. With Samsung often offering a $200 discount, the starting price effectively drops to around $1,600 in the U.S.
Looking forward to the Galaxy Z Fold 6, there haven’t been specific price leaks so far. However, considering the pricing history of the Galaxy Z Fold 5, it’s expected that it will be similarly priced, although the final price may differ based on new enhancements such as advanced display technologies and the possible introduction of a titanium build.
Regarding a more budget-friendly version of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, there’s no historical pricing to guide us since this would be a new venture for Samsung. A starting price under $1,000 would make sense to keep it accessible without stepping into the premium range of foldables, it could overlap with the pricing territory of the Galaxy Z Flip. We’ll need to stay tuned for more details to see how Samsung positions this potentially cheaper foldable option.
Conclusion
These rumors provide an exciting preview of what could be in store for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, raising the bar for what’s expected from Samsung’s next foldable device. If these speculations prove accurate, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 could mark a major advancement in bringing foldable phones into the mainstream. It combines state-of-the-art technology with practical improvements aimed at attracting a broader audience. As usual, those interested in the latest tech should look out for official announcements to get the most reliable information.
