Samsung’s upcoming foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, may arrive with a thicker build compared to its predecessor. Reports suggest the company is considering bringing back carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) as structural support for the inner folding display—a material used in earlier models. This marks a shift away from the titanium backplate seen in the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Why the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Could Be Thicker
Interestingly, this design change appears to be driven less by engineering decisions and more by international trade tensions. The ongoing tariff increases and supply chain complications between the US and China have made titanium—a resource heavily dominated by Chinese suppliers—significantly more expensive and harder to source.
Titanium was key in helping the Z Fold 7 maintain its sleek 8.9mm folded profile. Replacing it with CFRP, though strong and lightweight, is likely to result in a device that’s slightly bulkier and heavier.
On a more positive note, Samsung is rumored to be working on a new type of display panel with no visible crease. If true, this could be a huge win for foldable phone fans who were put off by the subtle fold line in previous models like the Z Fold 7.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to make its debut around July 2026, with a premium price tag that could reach up to $2,000.
