Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip foldable line could be heading for the chopping block, according to rumours circulating ahead of the company’s next Galaxy Unpacked event in July.

Multiple reports citing Chinese tipsters on Weibo claim Samsung may not develop a Galaxy Z Flip 9, potentially making the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8 the final clamshell foldable in the series.

The speculation comes as Samsung is tipped to unveil three foldable devices on July 22, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8, a wider-format ‘Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide’ and the Galaxy Z Flip 8.

According to leakers Momentary Digital and Setsuna Digital, the absence of supply chain chatter around a Flip 9 – typically visible more than a year before launch – suggests Samsung could be reassessing the future of compact foldables.

Analysts point to three key factors driving the speculation: rising manufacturing costs, slowing innovation in the clamshell form factor and stronger demand for larger book-style foldables that offer greater productivity and higher profit margins.

Galaxy Z Flip 8 render via OnLeaks & My Mobiles

Samsung’s Fold range has increasingly become the company’s premium foldable focus, with larger-screen devices gaining traction among business and power users. Huawei’s recent success with larger foldables, including the Pura X Max, is also believed to be influencing market direction.

But several industry watchers remain sceptical that Samsung would abandon the Flip category entirely.

The Galaxy Z Flip series continues to sell in significant volumes globally and remains Samsung’s most affordable entry point into foldable smartphones. At roughly half the price of the Galaxy Z Fold range, the Flip appeals to younger consumers, content creators and buyers seeking compact designs.

Tech commentators have also noted the Flip’s unique appeal for mobile video creators and vloggers due to its self-standing camera-friendly design.

Samsung has currently made no comment on the rumours.