July 20, 2026, 7:11 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Samsung is reportedly working on a new smartphone concept. Instead of unfolding the casing like with foldables, the available screen area is supposed to expand in a different way. According to a report, hints of this come from the manufacturer’s supply chain. Samsung might be preparing a so-called Slideable. The device is expected to hit the market sooner than previously anticipated.
Screen Expands as Needed
With a Slideable, the smartphone is not unfolded. Instead, part of the flexible OLED display extends sideways from the casing or rolls out from inside the device. According to industry observer Lanzk, information from the supply chain suggests that Samsung is working on its own model.
The potential advantage of this concept lies in the variable size of the screen. In its normal state, the device could be as compact as a classic smartphone. The display area would only expand when needed, providing more space for videos, websites, or multiple open applications. Since the display is not bent at a fixed point, the crease visible in many foldable smartphones could be eliminated.
This Concept Also Faces Technical Challenges
However, an extendable display does not come without challenges. The screen must move smoothly and reliably retract into the casing. At the same time, no dust or other debris should enter the mechanism.
There is another issue. Guide rails and the flexible display require space inside the smartphone. This space is then unavailable for other components like the battery, cameras, or additional parts. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether a Slideable could actually be thinner and lighter than a conventional foldable.
Leaked Video Claims to Show Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra Without Display Crease
Apple Already Planning Successor for Foldable iPhone
Samsung to Accelerate Development
According to the report, the faster development of the device is linked to plans for a successor to the discontinued Galaxy Z TriFold. Samsung is reportedly still working on the second generation of the triple-folding smartphone. A revised hinge is planned to enable a thinner and lighter device.
Also of interest: Leaked video purportedly shows Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra without display crease
However, the high production costs are expected to delay the market launch of this model. As a result, the Slideable might be moved up in Samsung’s timeline and appear before the TriFold successor.
Market Launch Possibly as Early as 2027
Current information suggests that the Slideable could hit the market as early as 2027. Previously, a launch in 2028 was expected. This means the device might appear before the next TriFold.
Officially, Samsung has not yet announced the smartphone. Reliable information on the display size, features, or price is therefore not yet available. Further hints could follow on July 22, 2026. On this day, Samsung is hosting the next Galaxy Unpacked in London and plans to present new foldable Galaxy devices.