Technology

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The surprising update for tech enthusiasts and foldable smartphone fans, the long-rumored Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra may not see the light of day after all. According to a credible tipster, Samsung has scrapped plans to launch a separate ‘Ultra’ variant of its upcoming foldable and will instead deliver flagship-tier features within the standard Galaxy Z Fold 7 model. The leak has stirred anticipation and curiosity across the tech community just weeks ahead of Samsung’s expected Galaxy Unpacked event.

There had been speculation that Samsung was preparing to launch two foldable devices under its Galaxy Z Fold 7 line—one being the standard version and the other an ‘Ultra’ model aimed at competing with premium foldables like Huawei’s Mate X series or Honor’s Magic V2 Pro. However, industry insider @Tech_Reve, known for accurate leaks, has now claimed that Samsung has decided to streamline its foldable lineup. Instead of releasing a separate Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra, the company will focus on making the standard Z Fold 7 the most powerful and feature-rich foldable in its category.

According to the tipster, Samsung has opted for a "consolidated flagship strategy" for the foldable segment in 2025. This means that while there will be no separate Ultra version, the Z Fold 7 itself will feature many high-end specifications typically reserved for Ultra-branded devices. These may include improved durability, a thinner and lighter design, an enhanced hinge mechanism, and possibly support for the S Pen without a separate case.

This move is seen as part of Samsung’s plan to reduce complexity in its premium lineup and to focus its R&D efforts on one superior product in the foldable category, rather than dividing attention across multiple models. It also reflects the maturity of the foldable segment, where users are expecting innovation without unnecessary model fragmentation.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to sport a more robust build, with titanium or an advanced aluminum frame, and upgraded displays both on the cover and the foldable interior. The phone is likely to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. Camera upgrades are also on the horizon, with leaks hinting at a 108MP main sensor, improved ultra-wide and telephoto capabilities, and better low-light performance.

Samsung is said to be refining the crease visibility, one of the most debated design issues in foldables. The Z Fold 7 might include a new waterdrop hinge that allows for a flatter fold and reduced crease depth, addressing a long-standing concern among foldable phone users.

The absence of a Z Fold 7 Ultra may disappoint some fans who were hoping for an even more premium iteration, but Samsung’s decision could benefit consumers overall. By channeling all its premium technology and innovation into one device, Samsung may offer a single, top-tier foldable that does not compromise on performance or design.

The official launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to take place in July 2025, during Samsung’s annual Galaxy Unpacked event. Alongside the Z Fold 7, the company is also anticipated to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Watch 7 series, and possibly the next generation of Galaxy Buds.

As the foldable market heats up with competitors like Google, OnePlus, and Chinese OEMs entering the space, Samsung appears to be making a strategic shift to maintain its lead. With a powerful and refined Galaxy Z Fold 7, the company seems poised to offer users the "Ultra" experience—without the "Ultra" label.