Samsung might have canceled the most popular Galaxy folding phone, says leak

A fresh supply chain rumor from a famous tipster suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 could mark the end of the line for Samsung’s most affordable, clamshell foldable.

Because smartphone product planning occurs at least a year in advance, the complete absence of early supply chain talk regarding a "Flip 9" makes it look like Samsung might be pulling the plug on the Flip series, suggests the leak.

Product planning happens at least a year in advance; if a Flip 9 were in the works, I’d have seen some leaks or information by now, but there's absolutely nothing. - Instant Digital

The tipster highlights three core reasons for the potential shift:

• Surging costs: Rising component and flexible display costs are squeezing Samsung’s margins.
• The Flip design: Clamshells have hit a plateau, with outer cover screens already stretched to their physical limits.
• The Fold vs Flip factor: Phone users are gravitating toward larger, premium book-style foldables like the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide

In related news, the same post says they "have a feeling there won’t be a Galaxy Z Flip 8 this year" either, which contradicts a ton of evidence we’ve seen of the Flip 8, including renders, cases, design models, and even a rumored launch date.

Hence, it’s worth noting to reiterate that we are talking about early supply chain speculations, which are subject to change and should be taken with a grain of salt.

According to the latest industry rumors, the Galaxy Z Flip 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8, and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide are expected to be announced at Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event, rumored to take place on July 22.