Samsung has introduced the Galaxy Z Fold 8 with a redesigned form factor that makes the foldable wider than previous Galaxy Z Fold models. The device features a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch main screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio, giving it a wider, passport-like appearance when unfolded.

Apple, meanwhile, is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market with its first foldable iPhone. The device, often referred to as the iPhone Ultra in reports, is expected to feature a similar book-style design with a large internal display and a smaller outer screen. Current reports point to a possible September 2026 launch, although Apple has not officially confirmed the device or its specifications.

If Apple does launch the foldable iPhone as expected, it could become a direct rival to Samsung’s latest foldable. Here are five key differences expected between the two devices.

1. Different Approaches to the Foldable Display

The biggest difference could come from the size of the internal screen. The rumored iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a 7.8-inch foldable display alongside a 5.5-inch cover screen. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, in comparison, has a 7.6-inch main display and a 5.5-inch cover display.

Samsung has specifically redesigned the Fold 8 around wider screen proportions. Its main display uses a 4:3 ratio, while the cover screen has a 10:16 ratio. The company says these proportions are designed to make the device more suitable for everything from short-form content to reading and multitasking.

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2. Apple and Samsung Could Use Different Chips

Performance is expected to be another major point of difference. The rumored iPhone Ultra is expected to use Apple’s next-generation A20-series chip, with current reports specifically pointing to the A20 Pro. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, meanwhile, is officially powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy.

The Samsung processor is customized for Galaxy devices and is designed to handle CPU, GPU, NPU and AI-related workloads. Apple is expected to take a different approach with its own silicon, although the company has not yet confirmed the foldable iPhone’s hardware.

3. Camera Hardware May Favour Different Priorities

Camera specifications could also separate the two foldables. Current reports suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone could feature a dual 48MP rear camera system. Reports have also pointed to upgraded front cameras, although the exact configuration has not been officially confirmed.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 comes with two 50MP rear cameras, consisting of wide and ultra-wide sensors. It also has a 10MP selfie camera on both the cover and main displays.

This means the final comparison may depend less on megapixel numbers and more on Apple’s image processing and Samsung’s camera software when the two devices can be tested side by side.

4. Memory and Storage Could Be Another Major Gap

Apple’s rumored foldable is expected to arrive with 12GB of RAM, with reports suggesting storage options could reach 1TB or even 2TB. These specifications remain unconfirmed because Apple has not officially announced the device.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 is available with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. Samsung officially lists 256GB, 512GB and 1TB storage configurations for the device.

If Apple’s reported 2TB configuration materialises, storage capacity could become one of the iPhone Ultra’s notable advantages.

5. The Colour Choices Will Reflect Different Designs

Colour options are expected to provide another visible distinction. The rumored iPhone Ultra has been linked to Silver or White and Deep Indigo finishes, although Apple’s final colour lineup remains unconfirmed.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, meanwhile, is officially offered in Graphite, Cream and Lavender, with Pistachio available exclusively through Samsung’s online store in some markets.

A New Battle in the Foldable Phone Market

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 already represents Samsung’s latest move toward a wider and more tablet-like foldable experience. Apple’s rumored entry could bring a different interpretation of the same basic passport-style concept, with its own processor, software ecosystem, camera technology and hardware design.

For now, Samsung’s specifications are confirmed, while most details surrounding the iPhone Ultra remain based on reports. The eventual comparison will become clearer only when Apple officially unveils its first foldable iPhone.

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