There’s strong speculation that Samsung may release not one, but two book-style foldable smartphones next year. The basis for these claims is that the Korean company is currently developing a device with the model number SM-F971.

SM-F971: Will It Be the New Galaxy Z Fold FE?

This mysterious device, codenamed H8, is clearly not the same as the Galaxy Z Fold8, which is codenamed Q8 and whose model number will begin with SM-F976. While flip-style foldables typically start with a 7, the fact that this one starts with a 9 indicates that the device is definitely part of the Galaxy Z Fold series.

Here’s the really interesting part: Samsung typically increments the middle digit in model numbers by one each year. If the Galaxy Z Flip FE is model numbered SM-F761, then the next “FE” (Fan Edition) model, the Flip FE 2, should logically be SM-F771.

Based on this logic, it’s quite possible that the model number SM-F971 belongs to a Galaxy Z Fold FE. This number is identical to the Flip FE 2’s model number, except that the number “9” (which refers to book-style foldables) is used instead of the number “7” (which refers to clamshell foldables). This could mean that Samsung is preparing to launch a more affordable Fold model.

However, some sources claim that the SM-F971 will be the first device with a new form factor. This model, also a book-style foldable, is said to feature a cover display with an 18:9 aspect ratio and a square-shaped inner foldable screen.

This design is allegedly developed to compete with the foldable iPhone, which is expected to be released next year and is expected to have a larger cover display than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7.

For now, it’s important to remember that all of this is speculation. However, the existence of the SM-F971 suggests that Samsung is considering expanding its foldable phone strategy, both continuing its flagship Fold series and introducing a more affordable Fold model, possibly with an “FE” (Fan Edition) version.