Rumors have been swirling for months about Samsung developing a more affordable foldable phone, but recent reports suggest that the company has canceled these plans. Instead, Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, a premium version of the Z Fold6, featuring larger displays, a sleeker design, and a 200 MP main camera. This Special Edition is priced at KRW 2,789,600 ($2,000/€1,860), slightly more expensive than the regular Z Fold6.
No Plans for a Cheaper Z Fold
According to a report from Sammobile, citing an unnamed Samsung official, the company has no intention of launching a lower-priced Galaxy Z Fold device. The official explained that the Z Fold Special Edition was released to offer consumers more variety, not as a more affordable option. The official stated:
“Rather than considering it a premium product, it’s a product released to expand your options. As of now, we have no plans to release a separate product with a lower price.”
What Happened to the Z Fold6 FE?
Samsung reportedly had considered launching a Z Fold6 FE, a more affordable foldable device. However, the early production run yielded unsatisfactory results, with the test devices failing to be significantly thinner or lighter than competing foldables from Chinese brands. Additionally, the lack of S Pen support (due to no stylus digitizer) made the device less appealing.
The market uncertainties and these design issues led Samsung to shelve the idea of a cheaper foldable, at least for now. With no lower-priced foldable on the horizon, the Z Fold Special Edition remains the top option for foldable enthusiasts looking for premium features.
