What you need to know
- A new wave of Fold 8 series rumors claim the devices may not feature Samsung’s new Privacy Display technology.
- The report also states that Samsung might not reintroduce the S Pen, nor will it integrate a less visible screen crease.
- Previous rumors have suggested that Samsung was working on S Pen integration and less of a crease, but there’s been hesitancy regarding the former (and for good reason, too).
Rumors about Samsung’s next book-style foldable continue, but this one might’ve dropped our excitement levels.
Early this morning (May 20), tipster Ice Universe on X posted a short blurb about the alleged development of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series. One major point the tipster suggested was that the Fold 8 series might forget Samsung’s Privacy Display exists. This would mean consumers interested in this foldable would have to settle for prying eyes, despite how well-received it was for the Galaxy S26 series.
Elsewhere, the tipster claims the Fold 8 will not see any advancements with its display. This is outside of a major feature, like the Privacy Display, and more about its visuals. Ice Universe says the Fold 8 series might not work on reducing its display crease over what we have with the Fold 7. Strangely, this goes against a previous rumor that offered hope for such an improvement.
The tipster concludes with allegations that the Fold 8 will also leave out an S Pen once again. It’s worth mentioning the tipster’s use of “series” in this leak. It seems likely that they’re referencing the Fold 8 and the Fold 8 “Wide” that we’ve been hearing about for months.
Rumors are folding
Ever since the Galaxy S26 series launched, we’ve seen how well Samsung’s Privacy Display is at blocking sight from unwanted stares. It’s still early, and we still don’t know for sure. Hopefully, things change between now and the launch of Fold 8 (but let’s not get crazy about it). What we should focus on is its display, which, after what Samsung did last year, maybe it’s looking to chill.
The Fold 7 was incredibly popular for Samsung, and its display actually stepped things up more than expected. It was its durability that stepped up to the plate last year. The company reported that its Fold 7 could withstand up to 500,000 folds and beyond, pushing its longevity to roughly a decade with “normal use.” Its crease wasn’t talked about, so it would’ve been nice if these rumors spun a different tale.
What was also talked about (and seen in a positive light) was the potential for the Fold 8 to bring back the S Pen and reduce its crease. Rumors now suggest otherwise for the latter, but we were already hesitant about the resurgence of the Fold’s S Pen. One major selling point for Samsung was how thin its Fold 7 was, and it looks like it won’t let that go this time.
Android Central’s Take
It’s safe to say that this negative rumor about the Privacy Display for the Fold 8 sucks. However, when it comes to the S Pen, I’m not bothered by it, but I can see what people want it back. Samsung’s Fold is quite large. It practically simulates a tablet experience, while still being a phone. Multitasking is also a big spotlight for it, meaning people can get some work done (if that’s their goal) without feeling restricted. Just thinking about Samsung making the Fold 7 thinner, it’s hard to see it bringing the stylus back for the 8.