Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Spotted on IMEI Database, Global Launch Likely in 2026

Samsung may be getting ready to shake up the foldable phone market again. The Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold has now appeared on the GSMA IMEI database, and this is a big deal. For regular users, this usually means one thing, the phone is moving closer to an official launch, and not just in one country.

Multiple reports confirm that Samsung’s new wide foldable is being prepared for several regions at the same time. That strongly suggests a global launch, not a limited experiment. I’ll say this clearly: Samsung looks confident about this device, and that confidence matters.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Regional Models Revealed

According to a report by Smartprix, a mysterious Samsung foldable with model number SM-F971 has surfaced in the IMEI database. What makes this listing special is the number of regional versions spotted:

• SM-F971N: South Korea
• SM-F9710: China
• SM-F971U / U1: United States
• SM-F971W: Canada
• SM-F971B: Global markets

Samsung usually uses the “B” suffix for global models, including Europe, Asia, and other regions. This alone tells us the Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold is not a concept phone. It’s a serious product aimed at mass markets.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Launch Timeline Hints

Reports suggest Samsung may unveil the Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 at its Galaxy Unpacked event in Q3 2026.

The other foldables have also appeared on the IMEI database:

• Galaxy Z Fold 8 – SM-F976 (codename Q8)
• Galaxy Z Flip 8 – SM-F776 (codename B8)

This timing feels intentional. Samsung wants to dominate the foldable conversation before competitors, especially Apple, enter the space. And honestly, that’s a smart move.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Design Details 

Early leaks suggest the Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold will look different from the current Z Fold models. Instead of a tall and narrow cover screen, this device may feature:

• A shorter and wider outer display with an 18:9 ratio
• A near-square inner screen when unfolded
• Book-style folding similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series

This design could be a game-changer for multitasking, reading, video viewing, and work use. Many users have complained that foldables feel too narrow. Samsung seems to be listening, finally.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Production Strategy 

One of the strongest signals comes from production numbers. Samsung is reportedly planning to produce around one million units of the Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold in its first run.

That’s huge for a special foldable model. Past experimental devices like the Galaxy Z Fold SE or TriFold had much smaller batches. This time, Samsung is betting big, likely because demand for wider foldables is growing fast.

In my view, this also connects directly to Apple. With rumours of an iPhone Fold gaining heat, Samsung wants a ready-made alternative on shelves first.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold Global Launch Feels Almost Confirmed

Nothing is officially confirmed yet, but all signs point in the same direction. The IMEI listings, global model numbers, production volume and launch timing together paint a very clear picture.

Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold appears to be the boldest foldable device that will be released by Samsung in 2026. If priced appropriately, this phone could attract power users, professionals and even first-time foldable buyers.

This is exciting for Samsung fans. For rivals, this is pressure. And for the foldable market? This could be the push it desperately needs.