Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 BIS Certification Hints at Upcoming Z Fold 8, Flip 8, Wide Fold, and Buds Able Launch

Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch its next generation of foldable smartphones along with a new pair of wireless earbuds, as multiple upcoming devices have recently appeared on India’s Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification database. The listings include the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Flip 8, and the rumored Galaxy Z Wide Fold, alongside a new audio accessory believed to be the Galaxy Buds Able. These certifications suggest that Samsung is advancing toward an official release in the near future.

According to reports from SammyGuru, several battery units linked to the upcoming foldables have received BIS approval. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is associated with battery models EB-BF976DAY and EB-BF976DAE, while the Galaxy Z Flip 8 comes with EB-BF776BAE and EB-BF776BAY. The Galaxy Z Wide Fold, a device hinted at in earlier rumors, also shows up with battery units EB-BF971DAE and EB-BF971DAY. These certifications indicate that the devices are moving past internal testing stages and closer to mass production.

In addition to these primary listings, the report highlights four other battery models—EB-BF972DAE, EB-BF972DAY, EB-BF977DAE, and EB-BF977DAY—whose exact purpose remains unclear. These could correspond to internal test units, alternative variants, or potential devices that may never reach the consumer market. Regardless, their appearance in the BIS database signals ongoing development activity across multiple product lines.

The inclusion of the Galaxy Buds Able alongside the foldable devices hints at a broader launch strategy, where Samsung may introduce a suite of new devices simultaneously. This approach would align with previous Galaxy launch events, where foldables and wireless audio products are showcased together to emphasize Samsung’s expanding ecosystem. With BIS certification now completed, the company appears to be on track for a global rollout in the coming months.

iPhone Fold Trial Production Underway as Apple Prepares Foldable iPhone Launch in H2 2026

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market with its first-ever iPhone Fold, expected to launch in 2026. Industry sources suggest that the device will be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models during Apple’s September event, though the company has not officially confirmed any details. Ahead of the anticipated debut, trial production of the handset has reportedly begun, signaling that the tech giant is moving closer to mass production and eventual shipments later this year.

According to reports from ITHome, Foxconn has started trial production of the foldable iPhone. The device is rumoured to adopt a book-style folding design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer screen. This design aims to combine a large tablet-like display with the convenience of a standard smartphone form factor, allowing users to switch seamlessly between compact and expanded modes.

Apple had previously faced delays in the development of its foldable iPhone due to manufacturing challenges, including yield issues and difficulties ramping up production. Early reports suggested that shipments might be postponed until 2027, potentially limiting availability and creating shortages. However, the latest updates indicate that Apple plans to begin shipments in the second half of 2026, with an estimated 20 million units sourced from Samsung Display—a significant increase from earlier projections of 13–15 million units.

The iPhone Fold is expected to mark one of the most significant design shifts in the history of Apple’s flagship devices. While previous models like the iPhone 4, iPhone 6, and iPhone X introduced incremental design changes, the foldable iPhone represents a fundamental transformation in form factor. Reports indicate that the US price for the 256GB variant could reach $1,999 (roughly Rs. 1,84,700), while in China it may be priced at CNY 15,999 (around Rs. 2,14,400). Analysts suggest that Apple hopes the device will not only capture strong demand for itself but also expand interest in foldable smartphones more broadly, potentially leading to additional form factors in the future.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro Rumored to Launch Next Year Featuring New Privacy Display Technology

Samsung appears to be preparing a significant expansion of its flagship lineup with the upcoming Galaxy S27 series. Following the launch of the Galaxy S26 series earlier this year at the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event—which included the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra—reports now suggest that the next generation could introduce a new Pro variant. This model is expected to complement the existing lineup rather than replace any current model, offering users an additional high-end option with advanced features like the recently unveiled Privacy Display.

According to industry sources cited by ET News, the Galaxy S27 Pro is likely to be positioned between the Galaxy S27+ and S27 Ultra in terms of specifications and pricing. While details are still emerging, the Pro model is expected to share many of the same high-end specifications as the Ultra variant, including powerful processors, improved cameras, and enhanced display technology. However, unlike the Ultra, it may not include support for the S Pen stylus, indicating a focus on premium features without overlapping entirely with Samsung’s existing Ultra lineup.

The introduction of the Galaxy S27 Pro is part of Samsung’s broader strategy to expand its range of high-end devices. By adding a Pro model, the company can offer consumers more choice at the top end of the market, catering to those who want advanced specifications and features without committing to the Ultra model. The move also reinforces Samsung’s goal of maintaining a competitive edge in the premium smartphone segment while differentiating each model in its lineup.

The Privacy Display feature, expected to debut with the Pro model, is a highlight of the upcoming device. This technology is designed to enhance user privacy by limiting viewing angles, making it harder for others to see the screen from the side. Combined with the Pro’s positioning between the Plus and Ultra models, the Galaxy S27 Pro could attract users seeking both premium specifications and innovative privacy-focused features, potentially making it a standout addition to Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series.