The Samsung Z Fold 5 was an incremental update, with a slightly wider screen and a better 8 Gen 3 for Galaxyย chip. The Z Flip 5, on the other hand, has a better outer screen with a new chipset and a larger battery. It was a much bigger update than the Z Fold 5.
Until now, the Z Fold lineup hasn’t included subdivisions. Since January 2024, there have been rumors of Samsung launching a cheaper Z Fold 6 “FE” variant. However, there are more conflicting reports that Samsung might not launch a cheaper model but a more expensive one called the Z Fold 6 Ultra.
We’re unsure which one will come true, but the Z Fold 6 FE might have cut-down camera specifications and a weaker Exynos chipset. If they make a more expensive model, it’ll get a larger 200MP primary camera sensor and probably a larger battery. However, an Ultra model will have to justify an extra jump in pricing with hardware that we haven’t seen before.
We already have the OnePlus Open with a larger primary sensor and a 3X periscope camera, Xiaomi’s foldable with four rear cameras, and Huawei & Honor have been making strides in thin, foldable phones.
Short Answer: There are reports that Samsung is planning to launch a higher-end version of their foldable phone called the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra. New rumors suggest it will carry a model number SM-F958N. The Ultra variant might only be released in a limited number of markets, possibly starting with South Korea.
What will the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra have?
According to reports from WinFuture (in German), the Galaxy Fold 6 Ultra will have a new 200MP primary sensor and a new design. There are some rumors that Samsung will fit an S Pen internally without needing a case, but we don’t think these rumors are true since that is not in line with reports that mention a wider form factor for these foldable phones.
The reports that the Z Fold 6 Ultra will increase in width and shrink in height match earlier reports from January. It might move to a design similar to the Google Pixel Fold or the OnePlusย Open.
According to 5K renders from OnLeaks, the device has flat edges and a sharp, boxy overall design. This is very similar to the latest S24 series in terms of design. If it’s shorter and wider and has a boxy frame, this is the first major redesign to the Z Fold lineup in a long time. Reports say the Pixel Fold 2 is still a wider phone overall, but the Z Fold 6 getting wider will definitely mean a more usable outer display.
It will continue to use the very durable waterdrop hinge, and the phone will continue to have the IP68 water resistance rating. There are some reports of Samsung adding a new telephoto, but we cannot confirm these rumors. Reports also mention a larger Z Fold 6 Ultra battery and potentially faster charging. Samsung also focuses on making the product much thinner and easier to hold and grip thanks to the flat sides.
Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra to launch alongside standard Fold 6
Earlier leaks said that Samsung would launch the Z Fold 6, and then a Z Fold 6 FE, as a cheaper model. However, the rumors of an Ultra model contradict this. If the Z Fold 6 Ultra comes out, there will be no Z Fold 6 FE. Samsung will name the successor to the Z Fold 5 as the Z Fold 6, and the Ultra will begin a new line of foldable phones.
The codename for the Ultra model is currently Q6A internally. We’re not yet sure of the differences between models. The Z Fold 6 will continue the same GN3 50MP primary camera with a 1/4″ 3X telephoto. The Ultra could get better cameras and a larger battery to differentiate itself. The price tag rumors are currently very inconsistent, with some mentioning a 2500$ price tag for the Z Fold 6 Ultra, which is highly absurd.