The foldable smartphone market has become one of the most exciting and innovative segments in the tech industry. Samsung, a leader in the foldable phone space, has pushed the boundaries with its Galaxy Z Fold series. The Z Fold models are known for their stunning display technology, versatile folding mechanism, and premium performance. However, these devices often come with a hefty price tag, limiting their accessibility to a wider audience.
Enter the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE — a potentially more affordable version of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. After the success of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE in mid-2025, which provided a more budget-friendly alternative in the flip-phone category, it appears that Samsung is preparing to do the same for its full-sized foldable. Recent listings in the IMEI database have brought this possibility to light, hinting that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE could be the next big release from Samsung’s foldable lineup in 2026.
What is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE?
Samsung has been a pioneer in the foldable phone market, starting with the Galaxy Z Fold in 2019. Over the years, the Galaxy Z Fold series has evolved, with each new iteration bringing new features and design enhancements. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected to launch later in 2026, will likely continue this trend of innovation, offering a premium experience with the best technology Samsung has to offer.
However, there has been a noticeable gap in Samsung’s FE lineup in the foldable space. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, released in 2025, was a more affordable version of the flagship Z Flip 6, providing many of the same features but at a lower price. This move was widely praised, as it made Samsung’s foldable technology more accessible to a broader range of consumers.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE is rumored to be the company’s next step in offering a more budget-friendly version of its flagship foldable phone. While the full details are still under wraps, the IMEI database listings have revealed some crucial information, suggesting that the Z Fold 8 FE could bring the premium folding experience within reach of more people.
What We Know About the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE: Clues from the IMEI Database
According to GSMA International’s official IMEI database, a phone with the model number SM-F971U and the market name Q7 has been listed. This model number and market name have caught the attention of industry insiders, as they closely resemble the naming conventions used for Samsung’s foldable phones. In particular, it shares similarities with the Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 model numbers, leading many to believe that this device is indeed the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE.
To further confirm this speculation, the IMEI database also lists two other Samsung phones with the following model numbers and market names:
- SM-F976U (Market Name Q8): This is likely the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8.
- SM-F776U (Market Name B8): This corresponds to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8.
The ‘U’ in the model numbers indicates that these devices are intended for the US market, where Samsung typically releases its foldable phones. This reinforces the idea that these devices are in the process of being optimized for one of Samsung’s largest markets.
What Can We Expect from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE?
While details about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE are still limited, there are several aspects of the device that we can speculate on, based on the success of previous FE models and the features of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 8.
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE is likely to retain the signature folding design that has become synonymous with Samsung’s flagship foldable devices. Samsung’s foldables have consistently been praised for their premium build quality, featuring durable materials like aluminum frames and Gorilla Glass Victus for the display. The Z Fold 8 FE will likely follow suit, though it might feature some cost-saving design tweaks, such as using slightly less premium materials for the frame or the internal display.
As with previous models, the Z Fold 8 FE will likely feature a large 7.6-inch inner foldable display that opens up like a tablet, and a 6.2-inch outer display for quick access to notifications and apps when the phone is closed. Expect the same stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and vibrant colors. However, the FE version may offer slightly less vibrant colors or a less advanced display panel to bring the price down.
Performance and Processing Power
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE is likely to feature a premium processor similar to that of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400, depending on the region. These chips will provide 5G connectivity, efficient power management, and AI-powered enhancements for improved performance.
However, the FE model may feature a slightly less powerful version of the chip, or it may be configured with less RAM or storage options to bring down the price. Samsung may also opt for a smaller battery or slower charging speeds to cut costs, although we expect the Z Fold 8 FE to still offer decent battery life thanks to its optimized software and efficient processor.
Camera System
Samsung’s foldable phones are known for their impressive camera systems, and the Z Fold 8 FE will likely continue this tradition. We expect it to feature a multi-lens setup with a primary camera, ultra-wide lens, and telephoto lens, offering users the ability to capture high-quality photos and videos. However, the FE model may come with fewer camera sensors or lower-resolution lenses compared to the Z Fold 8 to reduce costs.
Samsung may also cut back on some advanced camera features, such as zoom capabilities or AI-powered photo enhancements, to make the device more affordable. That said, the Z Fold 8 FE will likely still deliver solid photo quality for everyday users.
Price and Availability
One of the most important aspects of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE will be its price. As an FE model, we expect the Z Fold 8 FE to be priced significantly lower than the regular Z Fold 8. While the Z Fold 8 could start at around $1,799, the Z Fold 8 FE might be priced closer to $1,299, making it a more accessible option for users who want the foldable experience without breaking the bank.
Samsung is likely to release the Z Fold 8 FE around the same time as the Z Fold 8, with preorders possibly starting a few weeks after the official Unpacked event in the summer or early fall of 2026.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE the Right Foldable for You?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE will likely cater to users who want the premium foldable experience without paying the premium price. If you’re not particularly concerned with having the absolute best camera system, the fastest processor, or the most cutting-edge features, the Z Fold 8 FE could offer you everything you need at a much more reasonable price.
While it may not offer all the bells and whistles of the regular Z Fold 8, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE is shaping up to be a great value option for those who want to experience Samsung’s foldable technology without the high cost. For Samsung, this could also be a smart move to help them gain a larger share of the foldable market, which is still growing but remains niche due to the high cost of devices.
Samsung continues to innovate with its foldable phones, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 FE is set to make foldable technology more accessible to a wider audience. With its premium folding design, impressive performance, and affordable price point, the Z Fold 8 FE could be the perfect option for consumers looking to step into the foldable world without breaking the bank.
As we wait for official announcements, it’s clear that Samsung is committed to making foldable technology mainstream, and the Z Fold 8 FE could be a key part of that journey.
