That rumored 'Wide' Galaxy Z Fold might be in testing with Samsung's next major OS

What you need to know

• Rumors allege that Samsung's supposed "Wide" Galaxy Z Fold is being tested with Android 17 (One UI 9).
• A report claims that the firmware discovered is similar to rumored One UI 9 software for the Flip 8 and Fold 8.
• Leaks from January claim that the Wide Fold could debut in China, Korea, U.S., Canada, and other global areas.

More rumors add fuel to a supposed "Wide" Galaxy Z Fold, as one report claims to have found its development progressing with new software.

The rumors stem from SamMobile, which claims to have discovered Samsung's supposed start to testing One UI 9 on the Wide Fold. It's also worth realizing that these leaks suggest the Wide Fold will launch with Samsung's Android 17 OS in the first place. Moving on, the publication reportedly discovered the foldable in testing with firmware vF971USQU0AZB1.

Rumors add that this is similar to the firmware it spotted for Samsung's next (expected) foldable duo, the Fold 8 and Flip 8. Tipster Tarun Vats on X originally surfaced this, speculating that this firmware could be Samsung's early test build for Android 17 (One UI 9).

Vats claims that "things are moving fast," which could have something to do with Google's latest announcement.

A Fold Alternative

Things are, indeed, moving fast, as Google just yesterday announced that its beta for Android 17 is "coming soon." The company pushed its final QPR3 build for Android 16, signaling the end of that era. Now, Google is turning its sights to what's next for Android, informing Android 16 users that they'll be automatically enrolled in its OS 17 program.

No date has been given as of yet for Android 17's official test date.

Regarding the "Wide" Fold, or whatever it'll be called, recent rumors allege that the model number for the device has been spotted. While the model number itself isn't that new, what's new is that it supposedly held clues to where Samsung could launch the device. It seems the Wide Fold could debut in China and Korea, as well as the U.S., Canada, and global areas.

Other rumors claim the device could feature a wide 18:18 aspect ratio.

Android Central's Take

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 was already an incredibly enticing device for many users around the world. The device shattered records in South Korea, selling out quickly, just as it did in the U.S. What's got me curious is this "Wide" Fold should it come true. A thin, foldable device like this, with an immersive screen and a decent battery would truly make me think about swapping to a foldable. It might also give others who've mulled over the idea something extra to think about, too. Only time will tell, as the phone might debut later this summer.