Samsung: Weight is the Biggest Hurdle for Apple's Folding iPhone

Samsung is welcoming Apple's rumored entry into the foldable smartphone market, but warns that the tech giant's primary challenge will be managing the device's weight. In a conversation with WIRED, Samsung executives emphasized that reducing bulk is the most critical factor for consumer adoption in the foldable category.

Samsung's head of Advanced Mechanical R&D Group, Hee-Cheul Moon, noted that the value of the foldable category is being recognized as other brands enter the space. However, he stressed that "the key to providing the highest customer value in this market is all about the weight of the device," adding that achieving this is not easy. To illustrate the benchmark, Samsung highlighted its Galaxy Z Fold8, which weighs 201 grams. This makes the foldable device lighter than Samsung's own traditional "candybar" flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which weighs 218 grams.

The Engineering of Lightness

Samsung's focus on weight is a response to consumer data indicating that bulky designs are a primary deterrent for potential buyers. To achieve the 201-gram mark for the Fold8, engineers analyzed approximately 270 components and 180 auxiliary parts to shave off unnecessary mass.

Beyond weight, Samsung has focused on the physical longevity of the folding mechanism. The company developed "Flex Titanium" technology, which integrates a titanium-alloy film and a titanium plate. This film, roughly one-third the width of a human hair, is designed to maintain screen flatness and reduce the worsening of the center crease over time. These engineering efforts appear to be paying off; Samsung reported a 30 percent increase in global preorders for its latest foldable handsets compared to previous models.

The Challenge for Apple

The stakes are particularly high for Apple's rumored folding device, often referred to as the "iPhone Ultra." Current expectations suggest the device could weigh between 230 and 241 grams. If these figures hold, Apple's first foldable would be significantly heavier than Samsung's latest offering, potentially alienating users who find heavy devices cumbersome for daily use.

For Apple, the challenge is not just about the hinge or the screen, but the overall ergonomics of the chassis. Samsung's ability to bring a foldable's weight below that of a standard high-end smartphone sets a high technical bar for any competitor entering the space.

What to Watch

As Apple moves closer to a potential release, industry analysts will be watching for official specifications regarding the iPhone Ultra's weight and dimensions. While Samsung has established a lead in weight reduction and crease management, Apple's entry could shift market expectations or introduce new materials to solve the heft problem. For now, the industry remains focused on whether Apple can match the lightweight profile that Samsung has identified as the primary driver of customer value.