Samsung Ramps Up Work on a Mysterious Galaxy Z Fold Phone
Last week, several model numbers for Samsung’s upcoming foldable phones were leaked, drawing attention to a device with the model number SM-F971B. Initially, this device was believed to be part of the Galaxy Z Flip 8 FE series. However, recent information suggests that it might actually belong to the Galaxy Z Fold series. This development indicates that the launch of this mysterious foldable phone is now closer than ever.
Samsung’s foldable phone with the model number SM-F971 has recently appeared in the GSMA database. This listing confirms that Samsung is advancing in the development of this device. It also provides clearer insight into the type of phone this model number represents, shifting the focus from the Galaxy Z Flip series to the Galaxy Z Fold series.
Understanding the Model Numbers: Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE Possibility
Samsung’s model numbering system helps clarify which series a device belongs to. All Galaxy Z Flip phones so far have model numbers starting with SM-F7, while Galaxy Z Fold phones use model numbers beginning with SM-F9. Given this pattern, the SM-F971 model number aligns more closely with the Galaxy Z Fold series rather than the Galaxy Z Flip series, contradicting earlier reports.
Looking at previous models, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to carry the model number SM-F976. This means that SM-F971 is not the Galaxy Z Fold 8 itself. To understand what SM-F971 might be, it helps to compare it with the model numbers of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 has the model number SM-F766, while the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is SM-F761. Samsung appears to use the pattern SM-Fx66 for the standard model and SM-Fx61 for the more affordable variant.
Applying this logic, SM-F971 could represent a more affordable version of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, potentially named the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE. While this is speculation based on Samsung’s model numbering trends, it is a plausible explanation for the SM-F971 designation.
Future Launch Plans and What to Expect
There is also a possibility that Samsung might use the model number SM-F971B for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and assign SM-F976B to a higher-end Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. The details remain unclear, and Samsung has not officially confirmed any of these possibilities.
What is certain is that Samsung is ramping up work on this mysterious Galaxy Z Fold phone, signaling that its launch is approaching. Industry watchers expect Samsung to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 sometime in mid-2026. Until then, more information will likely emerge, shedding light on the exact nature of the SM-F971 device and its place in Samsung’s foldable lineup.
In summary, Samsung ramps up work on a mysterious Galaxy Z Fold phone with the model number SM-F971, which could be an affordable variant of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or part of a different foldable series altogether. The coming months will bring more clarity as Samsung moves closer to launching its next generation of foldable smartphones.
For more stories on this topic, visit our category page.
Source: original article.