Samsung is currently evaluating a significant hardware redesign for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 scheduled for 2026. According to supply chain reports and patent filings, the company intends to integrate a dedicated internal slot for the S Pen. Since the introduction of stylus support with the Galaxy Z Fold 3, users have been required to store the S Pen in specialized cases or carry it separately, as the thinness of the foldable chassis prevented an internal silo.
The move to include an internal S Pen slot is seen as a strategic response to increasing competition in the foldable market. Recent leaks suggest that Apple is accelerating the development of a folding iPhone, which may launch as early as late 2026. Reports indicate that Apple’s prototype includes support for a new, smaller version of the Apple Pencil. By adding a built-in stylus to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Samsung aims to maintain its lead in the productivity segment of the premium smartphone market.
To accommodate the stylus without significantly increasing the thickness of the device, Samsung is reportedly utilizing new hinge components and a thinner S Pen design. The proposed S Pen for the Fold 8 may feature a flattened side to fit within the narrow confines of the phone’s frame. There are also indications that the battery layout will be adjusted to create the necessary clearance for the stylus silo. This redesign follows the recent release of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition in certain markets, which focused on reducing device thickness but lacked internal stylus storage.
In addition to the physical slot, Samsung is developing software updates for the One UI 8.5 interface to enhance the S Pen experience on foldable screens. These updates include improved handwriting recognition and a new suite of air gestures specifically designed for multitasking on the large internal display. The company is also working with app developers to increase the number of third party applications that support pressure sensitive input on the flexible Ultra Thin Glass (UTG) surface.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to be announced during the summer Galaxy Unpacked event in 2026. While technical specifications are subject to change during the development cycle, the inclusion of the internal S Pen is currently a priority for the engineering team. Official pricing has not been established, but the current Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at $1,899 in the United States and £1,799 in the United Kingdom. Further details regarding the hardware finalization are expected to surface following the CES 2026 trade show in January.
