Samsung urges Apple to prioritize weight in first foldable iPhone

As Apple prepares to launch its first foldable smartphone, Samsung is offering a specific piece of advice to the new entrant. According to reports from 9to5Google, Samsung executives believe that the key to customer satisfaction in this emerging market is primarily about the weight of the device. This guidance comes from Hee-Cheul Moon, head of Samsung’s Advanced Mechanical R&D group, and Seungki Choi, who leads the Smartphone R&D division, both of whom spoke with Wired.

Samsung has spent several years refining its foldable technology, and the company views Apple’s entry as a validation of the category rather than a threat. Moon expressed that the arrival of other major brands, particularly one as influential as Apple, serves as proof that the value pioneered by Samsung is being recognized. He described the situation as 'absolutely welcome,' noting that it brings much-needed legitimacy and attention to a market that has struggled to break out of the niche category.

Weight remains the primary differentiator

The central argument for Samsung’s advice is grounded in a direct comparison of physical specifications. Moon stated that providing the highest customer value is all about minimizing weight. Samsung has aggressively reduced the mass of its devices over successive generations, with the latest Galaxy Z Fold 8 weighing just 201 grams. This is notably lighter than many standard, non-folding flagship phones, such as the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which tips the scales at 214 grams.

In contrast, estimates for Apple’s upcoming device, rumored to be the iPhone Duo, suggest a significantly heavier build. Reports indicate the new iPhone foldable will weigh between 230 and 241 grams. For context, the current iPhone 17 Pro Max, a rigid slab phone, weighs approximately 233 grams. This means Apple’s first folding device could be heavier than its own traditional flagship, a trade-off that may impact daily carry comfort compared to the lighter Samsung alternative.

A direct competition in form factor

With Apple’s device expected to adopt a similar core form factor to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, the two products are set for a direct head-to-head comparison. Despite Android having a substantial head start in the foldable market, analysts expect Apple to become a major player within a year of its debut. The competition is now less about which companies offer folding screens and more about which can deliver the most practical and comfortable hardware.

The focus on weight highlights a broader industry trend where physical ergonomics are becoming as critical as software features. While Apple brings massive brand power and ecosystem integration, Samsung’s years of iterative design have allowed it to solve the engineering challenges of housing a large display in a compact, lightweight chassis. For consumers, the choice may ultimately come down to whether they prioritize the Apple ecosystem or the physical usability of a lighter, thinner device.