Samsung has begun early work on One UI 9 for a yet-to-be-named Galaxy Z Fold model, according to recent firmware discoveries.
One UI 9 spotted on mysterious Galaxy Z Fold
Samsung appears to be preparing software for more than just the standard next-generation foldables. Reports point to development on a second Galaxy Z Fold device this year, alongside the expected Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.
A new firmware build has surfaced for a device with model number SM-F971U. This build carries the version F971USQU0AZB1. It matches patterns seen in test software for One UI 9, which is based on Android 17.
Similar test builds appeared at the same time for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 (model SM-F976U, build F976USQU0AZB1) and Galaxy Z Flip 8 (model SM-F776U, build F776USQU0AZB1). Tipsters shared these details on X, highlighting the early stage of preparation.
The SM-F971U model has drawn attention before as a possible lower-cost or variant Fold. Some sources describe it as a “Wide Fold” concept, with a design that might feature a wider cover screen for better usability when closed.
These findings come from Samsung’s internal test servers. They show the company has moved quickly to One UI 9 work, even as One UI 8.5 remains in beta or early rollout phases for current devices.
Samsung’s foldable phones typically launch in the second half of the year. The new models are likely to arrive with One UI 9 pre-installed. The standard Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 should follow that pattern, and this mystery device would do the same if it reaches the market.
No official details have come from Samsung about the second Fold or exact One UI 9 features. Firmware leaks like this often appear months ahead of launch.
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