A new video featuring realistic mockups has compared the foldable iPhone Ultra with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide. Both flagships are slated for a 2026 release as horizontal foldables, marking a significant departure from the narrow form factors that have dominated the market for the last seven years.
Apple and Samsung have simultaneously reached the conclusion that foldable smartphones need to be wider and more compact. When folded, both devices offer a more ergonomic one-handed grip while maintaining a similar thickness. The external display on both models is designed for quick tasks—such as checking notifications and messaging—rather than full-scale productivity.
Once unfolded, the devices reveal contrasting design philosophies. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide boasts a more modern look with sleek lines, while the iPhone Ultra retains Apple’s signature aesthetic with rounded corners. However, the hinge protrusion on the iPhone disrupts the aesthetic, with sharp edges that dig into the palm during heavy use. According to the video’s creator, content may appear slightly larger on the iPhone due to slimmer top and bottom bezels—an advantage of its 4:3 tablet-like aspect ratio.
Samsung is reaping the benefits of eight years of experience in the foldable market. This expertise is evident in the design's confidence and the robustness of the folding mechanism. The video creator favors the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide, highlighting this maturity: the form factor has been battle-tested on millions of units, and the external screen is fully functional. In contrast, the iPhone Ultra feels unfamiliar even as a mockup, though this perception may shift as users acclimate to Apple's new direction.
Samsung is reportedly preparing two versions of its foldable flagship: the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8, a wider model with a 4,800 mAh battery, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, a successor to the narrow Fold 7 featuring a 5,000 mAh battery and extra features. Both are set to launch simultaneously on July 22, 2026, catering to different audiences: the Fold 8 targets those seeking maximum screen real estate and ergonomics, while the Ultra appeals to users who prefer a proven format with superior battery life and a larger capacity.
If you are looking for a refined foldable backed by years of manufacturing expertise, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 seems like the logical choice at launch. However, if battery size and peak functionality are your top priorities, the Ultra is the one to watch. The iPhone Ultra remains an intriguing experiment for Apple in this category, though a full evaluation will have to wait until its official September debut.
