Industry reports indicate that Samsung may reintroduce an under-display selfie camera on the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold9, which would let users use the large internal display without any visible camera cutouts. A recent leak states that this upcoming foldable phone might also bring substantial internal upgrades while maintaining a similar physical shape to the previous model. Samsung has not given official confirmation about the handset or its specifications, though a release is anticipated in 2027.
Samsung Could Bring Back Its Hidden Selfie Camera
Back in 2021, Samsung initially launched an under-display selfie camera using the Galaxy Z Fold3. This system places the lens below the panel so it stays hidden during tasks like gaming, reading, or watching videos. Samsung kept this configuration active up until the Galaxy Z Fold6, but changed to a standard punch-hole lens on the Galaxy Z Fold7 in 2025. Visible cutouts on the interior screens were also used for both the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. Based on information shared on X by tipster @kro_roe, Samsung might change course with its upcoming foldable model. The informant states that Samsung is building a handset with a hidden camera alongside significant internal hardware updates, though specific camera details are still absent.
It’s coming next year. I’m calling it a year ahead of everyone else: Samsung will unveil a device with UDC, major internal changes, and minimal changes to its overall thickness and design. https://t.co/wxJ6XigTAa
— kro (@kro_roe) October 29, 2026
Galaxy Z Fold9 Could Also Become Much Thinner
Earlier in the month, the same informant reported that Samsung had already begun work on the Galaxy Z Fold9. According to that information, the company aims for a profile measuring 3.9mm when open and 7.9mm when closed. By comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold8 is 4.5mm thick when open and 9.7mm thick when closed. Should these leaked measurements prove correct, the new model would be 0.6mm slimmer unfolded and 1.8mm slimmer folded. Still, questions remain about these numbers. The newest report points to minor modifications for the device profile and external appearance, conflicting with prior claims of a significantly slimmer chassis. These figures could represent early design goals or an alternate variant of the phone.
Samsung Preparing to Compete With Apple's Foldable
The informant also states that Samsung is positioning the Galaxy Z Fold9 to rival Apple's iPhone Duo. Apple's initial foldable device includes a 4MP hidden selfie camera on the interior screen. Samsung's rumored plan to revive the technology would allow it to provide an uninterrupted display view similar to its competitor. However, hidden cameras often face hurdles regarding picture clarity because light must pass through the screen panel. Samsung has not stated whether an upgraded version of this technology is ready for the new device.
Expected Launch Date
Samsung has not disclosed a release date for the Galaxy Z Fold9. Following typical corporate release patterns, the hardware could debut during the second half of 2027. There are also no verified details regarding the processor, battery capacity, camera sensors, screen dimensions, or cost. At this stage, the slim profile and hidden camera details are unverified reports originating from one source. Additional information will likely surface as development continues on the next generation of folding phones.