Samsung's S Pen for Foldables: The Game-Changer Against iPhone Fold [2025]

Samsung's Potential S Pen Return: Why This Matters for Foldables

Let's be honest. The foldable phone market right now feels like it's still searching for its identity. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold has dominated the space for years, but the competition isn't getting easier. The rumored Apple iPhone Fold keeps looming on the horizon, and if it actually ships with meaningful stylus support, Samsung needs to respond fast.

Here's the thing: the original Galaxy Z Fold 3 had S Pen support. It was a massive deal. You could actually write on a foldable display without worrying about damaging it. Then Samsung dropped it. Not because the feature didn't work. Not because customers hated it. They removed it because the S Pen stylus for foldables was thicker and required significant internal engineering to support the crease and folding mechanism. The newer Z Fold models prioritized thinness and durability over stylus support.

But here's what changed. Reports now suggest Samsung is seriously considering bringing the S Pen back, potentially with a wider screen design. This isn't just about matching Apple—this is about reclaiming the productivity edge that Samsung had abandoned.

If Samsung pulls this off, it becomes a defining feature. Imagine a foldable display that opens to a nearly tablet-sized canvas, complete with precision pen input. That's not just a phone anymore. That's a mobile workstation.

The problem is simple: most people don't know why Samsung dropped S Pen support in the first place, and they definitely don't understand why bringing it back is technically complex. This article breaks down exactly what's happening, why it matters, and what it means for your next phone purchase.

TL; DR

• Samsung is developing wider foldable screens with potential S Pen support to counter Apple's iPhone Fold rumors
• S Pen support was removed from the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and later because thinner designs couldn't accommodate the stylus mechanism
• A wider display changes everything because it gives Samsung more internal space to engineer stylus support without compromising thickness
• This feature would be a major productivity differentiator in a market where Apple is expected to launch its own foldable phone
• The timeline remains unclear, but Samsung is likely accelerating development given Apple's competitive threat

Estimated data suggests a potential price increase for future Galaxy Z Fold models with S Pen support, reaching up to $2,099 by 2025-2026.

The History of S Pen on Foldables: What Happened?

The Galaxy Z Fold 3, launched in August 2021, was the first and only foldable phone with built-in S Pen support. Samsung engineered a specialized version of the stylus that worked with the device's inner display without adding excessive bulk. At the time, it felt revolutionary. You could take notes, sketch, and control the device with precision—all on a foldable screen.

But here's the catch nobody talks about. That S Pen wasn't just smaller. It required a completely different internal architecture. The display had to support specific pressure sensitivity zones. The internal frame had to accommodate a stylus slot or storage mechanism. The circuitry had to route power and data for the stylus functionality. All of this added thickness and complexity.

When Samsung designed the Galaxy Z Fold 4 in 2022, they made a hard decision: prioritize thinness and durability over stylus support. The Z Fold 4 is noticeably thinner than the Z Fold 3. It also has a larger outer display, better cameras, and improved hinge technology. But no S Pen.

The reaction was mixed. Professional users and artists were disappointed. Casual users? Most didn't care. The stylus market on phones has always been niche. Samsung's Galaxy Note line maintained a loyal stylus-using base, but it's nowhere near the majority of smartphone buyers.

So why bring it back now? Two reasons.

First, Apple is coming. Everyone knows it. The rumor mill has been churning for years about an iPhone Fold. If Apple launches a foldable with stylus support—especially with Apple Pencil support—it instantly becomes a productivity tool that appeals to iPad users and creative professionals. Samsung can't let that narrative dominate.

Second, a wider foldable screen changes the engineering game entirely. If the inner display gets wider, there's more physical space inside the device. More space means more room for stylus circuitry, storage, and support mechanisms. It becomes technically feasible without sacrificing the thinness that modern phones demand.

Stylus support is particularly beneficial for professional users, offering high value in precision note-taking and digital art, while general users also appreciate enhanced navigation and gesture interactions. Estimated data based on typical user feedback.

Why a Wider Foldable Display is the Real Story

Everyone focuses on the S Pen, but the wider display is actually the headline. Samsung allegedly considers two specific design changes for upcoming foldables: a wider unfolded display and a stylus that fits the space.

Let's talk about what "wider" means. The current Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a 7.6-inch inner display with an aspect ratio of roughly 17.4:9. That's close to a traditional phone in portrait mode, maybe slightly narrower. When you unfold it, you get something that feels like a small tablet. Useful, but constrained.

If Samsung widens that display to 8 inches or more, you're entering genuine tablet territory. Imagine an 8.4-inch inner screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Suddenly, multitasking makes sense. Split-screen apps become practical. Reading becomes comfortable. And here's the key: you have physical space for mechanical components.

The S Pen isn't just a stylus. It's a complete ecosystem. Samsung would need to engineer:

• Digitizer technology in the display layers to detect stylus position and pressure
• Wacom integration (Samsung uses Wacom technology for stylus support)
• Storage and charging for the stylus if it's included in the device
• Firmware and software to enable S Pen apps and gestures
• Durability testing to ensure the stylus works consistently on the flexible AMOLED display

Each of these components adds thickness. A wider display gives Samsung breathing room.

But here's the honest part: wider isn't always better. Wider makes the device harder to hold. It makes one-handed use nearly impossible. It makes pockets tighter. Samsung would be trading portability for productivity. That's a real trade-off, not a simple upgrade.

The question becomes: who buys a wider foldable? Probably not casual users. Probably professionals, creators, and power users who already carry cases and use two-handed operation. That's a specific market—smaller than Samsung would like, but valuable enough to pursue.

The Apple iPhone Fold Threat: Why Samsung's Moving Now

Let's not dance around it. Apple's foldable phone is the elephant in the room. Apple hasn't announced anything officially, but the rumors are consistent enough that Samsung is clearly taking it seriously.

Here's what we think we know about the iPhone Fold:

Apple is allegedly designing a foldable that unfolds to roughly 8 inches. It would use Apple's proprietary display technology and Ultra Retina XDR panels, similar to iPad Pro models. And critically, it would likely support the Apple Pencil family of styluses.

Why does that matter? Because Apple Pencil is aspirational. iPad Pro users are loyal to Apple Pencil. Artists, note-takers, and productivity enthusiasts see it as the gold standard. If Apple brings that same experience to a foldable phone, it's instantly more compelling than any Android competitor.

Samsung's S Pen is actually technically impressive. It's pressure-sensitive, has tilt detection, and supports thousands of apps. But it lacks the cultural cachet of Apple Pencil. It's seen as a "Galaxy Note thing," not a mobility essential.

So Samsung faces a problem: if they don't bring S Pen support to foldables, Apple owns that narrative. If they do bring it back, they have to execute flawlessly to make it feel like a necessary feature, not a defensive move.

The acceleration likely comes from Apple's timeline leaking. Word in the industry suggests Apple's iPhone Fold could launch in 2026 or 2027. Samsung's generation cycle runs on a predictable schedule. If Apple is coming in 2026, Samsung needs S Pen support available by 2025 or early 2026 to establish it as "the" foldable stylus advantage.

It's a race, in other words. And Samsung, despite its maturity in the foldable space, suddenly feels like it's running to catch up.

The most complex challenge is managing the crease, followed closely by cost considerations. Estimated data.

S Pen Support: A Productivity Killer Feature or Niche Appeal?

Here's where I'll be honest: stylus support on phones is niche. Really niche.

Look at the Galaxy Note sales figures over the last decade. The Note line was once Samsung's flagship, commanding premium pricing and selling in the millions. But as Samsung merged Note features into the S series, and as foldables cannibalized the premium market, Note sales declined. By the time Samsung killed the Galaxy Note line (after the Note 20 Ultra in 2020), it was clear the market didn't value stylus support as much as Samsung hoped.

The S Pen works beautifully on Note devices. The integration is deep. App developers optimize for it. But the average Samsung buyer doesn't want a stylus. They want a fast phone, good cameras, and all-day battery.

Yet there's a meaningful subset of professionals who do care deeply. Architects, designers, medical professionals, students, and creative workers use styluses daily. For them, a foldable with S Pen support is genuinely useful. It's not a "nice to have." It's a legitimate productivity tool.

The real question is whether Apple's stylus support changes the equation. If Apple Pencil becomes synonymous with foldables—just like it is with iPad—then stylus support stops being niche and becomes an expected feature class. That's when Samsung needs to compete.

But here's the thing: Samsung's S Pen ecosystem is actually deeper than Apple's approach would be. Samsung has years of optimization, third-party app integration, and gesture support built in. If Samsung executes the return of S Pen to foldables properly, they could actually have the better stylus experience.

The challenge is messaging. Samsung needs to convince buyers that a wider foldable with stylus support is worth the premium. That's not a given. That requires education, app partnerships, and compelling use cases.

Design and Engineering Challenges: Why This is Hard

Bringing S Pen support back isn't just a feature toggle. It's an engineering overhaul.

The biggest challenge is the crease. Foldable displays have a visible crease running down the center where the device bends. Every foldable phone struggles with this. Samsung's latest models have reduced it significantly, but it's still there. Writing across the crease with a stylus? That's mechanically complex.

The digitizer (the technology that detects stylus position) has to work seamlessly across the crease. Pressure sensitivity has to remain consistent even where the display is slightly raised due to the hinge mechanism. The stylus tip has to be smooth and precise without snagging on the folding mechanism.

Second, durability on a foldable display is harder than on a static phone screen. The display flexes thousands of times. Each flex stresses the materials. A stylus adds mechanical wear on the surface. Samsung would need to certify that the display holds up to consistent stylus use over multiple years.

Third, battery life becomes a concern. The S Pen itself requires power if it's an active stylus with Wacom technology. It needs charging. Where does that charging cable go? Does it live inside the device? Does it add bulk? Samsung's Z Fold already has limited battery life compared to traditional phones. Every component that consumes power or takes up internal space is a trade-off.

Fourth, costs escalate. A stylus-compatible display is more expensive. The stylus itself adds cost. The engineering and validation add time and money. For a device that's already premium-priced (starting at

Lastly, thermal management changes. More components inside means more heat generation. Foldables already run warm because the internal space is compact and heat has nowhere to go. Samsung would need to redesign internal airflow and potentially use new materials to manage thermal stress.

None of these challenges are insurmountable. Samsung solved them before with the Z Fold 3. But it requires significant engineering effort, and the engineering effort is ongoing. Samsung has to maintain stylus support through the inevitable next generation, then the next, then the next. That's a multi-year commitment.

Samsung is expected to continue releasing new foldable models annually, while Apple's entry into the foldable market is projected for 2026 or 2027. (Estimated data)

The Competitive Landscape: Google, One Plus, and Others

It's easy to think the foldable market is just Samsung versus Apple. But there are other players trying to disrupt the space.

Google's Pixel Fold launched in 2023 and offers a respectable alternative. It has Google's best camera processing, tight Android integration, and clean software. But it doesn't have stylus support. Google also has Pixel Tablet stylus technology available, but they haven't brought it to foldables.

One Plus has explored foldables in certain markets but never committed to the Western market seriously. Motorola tried with the Razr flip format, which appeals to a different demographic than Samsung's approach.

Internally, Huawei dominates foldables in China with the Mate X series, and they've actually kept pace with Samsung in innovation. They don't have S Pen support, but their hardware is competitive.

The point: Samsung's foldable competition is primarily Apple (future threat), Google (present threat), and Huawei (regional threat). None of the competitors currently offer stylus support on foldables. If Samsung brings it back, they'd own that category temporarily. That's valuable real estate.

But Google could respond. Google has stylus technology in its Pixel Pen. They could theoretically add it to the Pixel Fold within a generation or two. Huawei has the engineering capability. One Plus could decide to bet on foldables with stylus as their differentiator.

The window for Samsung to own "stylus foldables" isn't infinite. Once Apple enters with Apple Pencil support, the category becomes competitive again. Samsung's advantage exists only if they execute faster and better.

Wider Display Benefits: More Than Just Stylus

Let's zoom out. The wider display isn't just about stylus. It's fundamentally about changing what a foldable does.

Current foldables—even Samsung's—feel like a phone that unfolds into a small tablet. The inner display of the Z Fold 6 is 7.6 inches with a 17.4:9 aspect ratio. When you unfold it, you have more screen, but the proportions still feel phone-like. Apps designed for phones run fine, but they don't take full advantage of the space.

A wider foldable changes that dynamic. Imagine an 8.4-inch inner display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Now you're in genuine tablet proportions. Split-screen becomes practical—you can run two full apps side by side without either feeling cramped. Reading becomes comfortable. Web browsing feels like a real multi-column experience, not a scaled-up phone view.

The productivity implications are real. Right now, if you want portable productivity, you choose between a phone (maximum portability, limited screen space) or a tablet (great screen space, poor portability). A wider foldable bridges that gap. You get tablet screen space with phone-like portability.

But the trade-offs are real too:

Ergonomics suffer. A wider device is harder to hold, harder to use one-handed, and harder to fit in pockets. You're looking at two-handed operation almost exclusively.

Weight increases. Wider displays require larger batteries, larger bezels, and more structural material. The device gets heavier. Current Z Fold models already weigh 230+ grams. A wider version could approach 250 grams or more.

Durability questions emerge. A wider device is easier to drop. It's harder to grip securely. The hinge has to support more weight distributed differently. Samsung would need to test durability extensively.

Heat management complicates. More screen surface means more power draw. More power draw means more heat. The internal space is already tight. A wider device doesn't have obvious places to add cooling capacity.

There's also the question of market acceptance. Would consumers actually want a wider foldable? Current feedback suggests many Z Fold users wish it was narrower, not wider. The device already feels unwieldy in daily use. Making it wider could alienate the existing customer base even as it appeals to professionals.

Samsung faces a classic product management dilemma: build what current customers want (narrower, lighter) or build what potential customers need (wider, more productive). Choosing one disappoints the other.

Wider foldable displays significantly enhance multitasking and reading comfort, but pose challenges for one-handed use and portability. (Estimated data)

Software Integration: The Secret Sauce

Let's talk about something people overlook: software. Stylus support is useless without great software.

Samsung's S Pen success on Galaxy Note devices wasn't just about the hardware. It was about deep software integration. Samsung's Note app lets you handwrite notes, convert them to text, share them, and organize them beautifully. Third-party apps like Clip Studio Paint, Ibis X, and Procreate Pocket were optimized for the stylus. Microsoft One Note, Adobe Fresco, and other productivity apps treated S Pen as a first-class feature.

If Samsung brings S Pen back to foldables, they need that same software ecosystem. That means:

Developer partnerships. Samsung needs to guarantee stylus app developers that it's worth optimizing for foldables. Otherwise, developers won't invest in UX design for the wider screen and stylus input.

First-party apps. Samsung's own apps—Notes, Productivity, Art—need to feel like they were designed for stylus on a wide foldable, not just ported from phones.

Gesture support. The S Pen has air gestures where you can control the phone without touching the screen. Those gestures need to work intuitively on a foldable, where interaction models are different.

Integration with DeX. Samsung's desktop mode (Samsung DeX) lets you connect your phone to a monitor and mouse/keyboard. A stylus-equipped foldable could become a genuine mobile workstation when docked. That's a compelling narrative.

Without strong software support, S Pen is just a novelty. With it, it becomes a reason to buy the device.

Apple will have an advantage here. When Apple Pencil comes to iPhone Fold, it'll have seamless integration with iPad apps, macOS handoff, and Apple's ecosystem. Developers will optimize immediately because iPad developers are already experienced with stylus. Samsung can't compete with that level of integration.

What Samsung can do is differentiate on customization, gesture support, and productivity apps. If Samsung makes the foldable+stylus experience genuinely better for work, they win in that niche.

The Timing Question: When Could This Launch?

Speculation is fun, but timing matters. When would Samsung realistically bring S Pen support back to foldables?

Current timeline: Samsung releases a new Galaxy Z Fold roughly annually, usually in the summer. The Z Fold 6 launched in July 2024. The Z Fold 7 would typically arrive in summer 2025. The Z Fold 8 would arrive in summer 2026.

If Samsung wants to beat Apple's iPhone Fold to market with S Pen support, they'd likely need to announce it at the Z Fold 7 (2025) or Z Fold 8 (2026) level. Earlier would require a mid-cycle refresh, which Samsung rarely does for Z Fold devices.

Most analyst predictions suggest the iPhone Fold arrives in late 2026 or 2027. That gives Samsung a window in 2025-2026 to establish S Pen on foldables before Apple enters.

But here's the complication: the wider display change requires engineering time. If Samsung needs a wider display and stylus support, that's potentially two major changes. Combining them in a single generation is possible but risky. Staggering them—maybe wider display in 2025, stylus support added in 2026—is safer but loses the "wow factor."

Another complication: component supply. Foldable displays are already supply-constrained. Samsung makes its own displays, which is an advantage, but scaling production of digitizer-equipped foldable displays takes time. They can't just flip a switch. Manufacturing ramp-up could delay launches by months.

What we'll probably see is early reports in late 2024 or early 2025 about S Pen returning to foldables. Samsung might even announce it as a coming feature. Then the actual product arrives 6-12 months later. That's how Samsung has historically handled big feature announcements.

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the only model with stylus support, while subsequent models focus on thinness and improved cameras. Estimated data.

The Price Question: What Will This Cost?

Honestly? A lot.

The current Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at $1,799. That's already premium. A foldable with S Pen support and a wider display would legitimately cost more to produce. Samsung would likely pass some or all of that cost to consumers.

Do we see a Z Fold with S Pen at

For context, the original Galaxy Z Fold 3 with S Pen support started at

Apple's iPhone Fold pricing will set a benchmark. If Apple launches at

But here's the thing: foldables are inherently expensive. The technology is premium. The market is small. There's no universe where a foldable is "affordable" by regular phone standards. Samsung's pricing power comes from being the only serious option (until Apple arrives).

Value proposition matters though. At

Future Implications: What This Means Long-Term

If Samsung successfully brings S Pen to foldables, the implications ripple through the entire smartphone market.

First, it establishes stylus support as an expected feature in premium foldables. Once it's there, competitors have to catch up or explain why they don't have it. Google faces pressure to add stylus to Pixel Fold. Huawei adds it to Mate X. One Plus considers it if they ever push foldables to Western markets.

Second, it changes the foldable value proposition. Right now, foldables are "phones that get bigger." With stylus, they're "portable creative workstations." That narrative is more compelling. It attracts professionals who wouldn't otherwise consider a foldable.

Third, it pressures the tablet market. If a foldable with S Pen can replace a tablet for some users, iPad sales could face headwinds in creative categories. Apple's iPad Pro growth is already tepid. Foldables becoming genuine productivity devices is competitive.

Fourth, it signals that the foldable market is maturing. Manufacturers stop just making the device thinner or lighter. They start adding features. That's a sign the market is moving from "novelty" to "category." It's a good sign for long-term foldable adoption.

Lastly, it validates stylus input for mobile devices long-term. Critics have argued styluses on phones are gimmicks since we have touchscreens. But if foldables normalize stylus input again, that perception shifts. The next decade of mobile computing might include stylus-enabled devices as a standard option in the premium tier.

None of this is guaranteed. If Samsung brings back S Pen and the feature is half-baked (poor software, limited app support, durability issues), it'll hurt both Samsung's reputation and stylus adoption broadly. Execution matters more than intention.

Is S Pen on Foldables Actually Necessary?

Let's end with the hard question. Do foldables actually need stylus support?

Objectively? No. Foldables work fine without stylus. They're great at being big phones. Many buyers are happy with just that.

But strategically? Maybe yes. Here's the logic:

Apple will enter the foldable market. When they do, they'll bring stylus support and a massive marketing machine. If Samsung hasn't already reclaimed the stylus position, Apple's narrative will dominate. Samsung will be pushed into a defensive position, explaining why their foldable is still competitive without stylus. That's not a position Samsung wants.

By bringing S Pen back now (before Apple launches), Samsung establishes foldables with stylus as a Samsung thing. When Apple enters with Apple Pencil, they're seen as copying Samsung's playbook, not innovating. That shifts the narrative in Samsung's favor.

It's not about whether stylus is necessary. It's about market narrative and competitive positioning. Sometimes the smartest move is claiming a category before your competitor gets there.

FAQ

What is S Pen stylus support, and why was it removed from newer Galaxy Z Fold phones?

The S Pen is Samsung's pressure-sensitive stylus that allows users to write, draw, and interact with their phone with precision. It was included on the Galaxy Z Fold 3 but removed from the Z Fold 4 onwards because Samsung prioritized making the device thinner and lighter. The stylus required additional internal components—digitizer layers, pressure sensors, and mechanical systems—that added bulk. Samsung decided the trade-off wasn't worth it for most users.

How would Samsung bring S Pen support back to foldables?

Samsung would need to redesign the internal architecture to accommodate stylus technology. The primary challenge is adding a digitizer (the technology that detects stylus position and pressure) to the flexible AMOLED display without significantly increasing thickness. A wider foldable display would provide more internal space, making it easier to integrate stylus support without compromising the device's thinness. Samsung would also need to ensure the stylus works smoothly across the display's crease and maintains durability during repeated folding.

What are the main benefits of stylus support on foldable phones?

Stylus support transforms foldables from large phones into portable productivity devices. Benefits include precision note-taking, digital art and design capabilities, improved document annotation, enhanced navigation control, and gesture-based interactions. For professionals like architects, designers, medical professionals, and educators, a foldable with stylus becomes a legitimate mobile workstation that can partially replace a tablet. The combination of a large unfolded display and stylus input creates a compelling value proposition for creative and productivity-focused users.

Why is Apple's rumored iPhone Fold pushing Samsung to act on S Pen support?

Apple's entry into the foldable market creates competitive pressure. If Apple launches an iPhone Fold with Apple Pencil support, it would establish "foldables with stylus" as an Apple feature, potentially dominated by Apple's marketing and ecosystem integration. By bringing S Pen back to foldables before Apple enters, Samsung can position stylus-equipped foldables as a Samsung innovation that Apple later copies. This narrative advantage is important in a competitive market.

What technical challenges does Samsung face in adding S Pen to foldables?

Multiple engineering hurdles exist. First, the digitizer layer must work seamlessly across the central crease where the display bends, which is mechanically complex. Second, the flexible AMOLED display undergoes thousands of fold cycles; adding stylus-compatible layers increases mechanical stress and durability concerns. Third, the stylus requires charging and storage space, which is limited in compact foldable devices. Fourth, thermal management becomes trickier with additional internal components in an already space-constrained design. Finally, Samsung must validate that stylus support doesn't compromise the device's thinness, durability, or battery life—all critical selling points for foldables.

When could we expect Samsung to launch a foldable with S Pen support?

Based on Samsung's typical release cycle, a foldable with S Pen support would likely arrive in 2025 or 2026. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 (2025) or Z Fold 8 (2026) are the most probable candidates. However, if Samsung wants to combine wider display changes with stylus support, the timeline might extend further. Early announcements could come in late 2024 or early 2025, with actual product availability following 6-12 months later.

Would a wider foldable display be better than the current design?

A wider foldable would offer genuine tablet-like dimensions, making multitasking more practical and comfortable. However, it would come with significant trade-offs: harder to hold one-handed, difficult to fit in pockets, increased weight, and potential thermal management issues. For professionals who want a portable productivity device, wider is beneficial. For casual users who prioritize portability and one-handed use, the current Z Fold proportions are actually better. Samsung would likely need to decide between serving existing customers (narrower is better) or attracting new professional users (wider is better).

How does Samsung's S Pen compare to Apple's Apple Pencil for foldable devices?

Both styluses offer precision input and pressure sensitivity, but they serve different ecosystems. Apple Pencil benefits from deep integration with iPadOS, macOS handoff, and a mature creative app ecosystem on iPad. Samsung's S Pen has advantages in customization, gesture support, and long-standing Galaxy Note optimization. On a foldable, Apple Pencil would likely offer superior ecosystem integration, while S Pen might offer more flexible customization options. The real advantage comes down to which ecosystem users already inhabit: iPad/Apple users will prefer Apple Pencil, while Samsung ecosystem users will prefer S Pen.

What apps would support S Pen on a foldable phone?

If Samsung brings S Pen to foldables, support would likely include Samsung's own apps (Notes, Productivity, Art), third-party creative apps (Clip Studio Paint, Ibis X, Procreate Pocket), productivity software (Microsoft One Note, Adobe Fresco), and potentially design tools (Autodesk Sketchbook). Samsung would need to work with developers to optimize these apps for the wider foldable display and stylus input. App support is critical—without strong software integration, stylus becomes a novelty feature rather than a necessity.

How much would a foldable with S Pen support likely cost?

The current Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at

Would stylus support make foldables more appealing to average consumers?

Probably not. Stylus support appeals to a specific subset of professionals and creatives—designers, architects, note-takers, and digital artists. Average consumers prioritize camera quality, battery life, performance, and price. Most phone buyers have never owned a stylus and have no intention of starting. The stylus market on phones remains niche, despite Samsung's long history with S Pen. However, stylus support could shift the competitive positioning between Samsung and Apple in the premium foldable segment, which is more important strategically than mass-market appeal.

The Bottom Line: Where This Story Goes

Samsung bringing S Pen support back to foldables isn't about democratizing styluses. It's about competitive positioning before Apple enters the market. It's about claiming a feature category and making Apple look like they're copying Samsung's playbook.

The engineering is genuinely complex. A wider foldable with stylus support requires changes across the display, thermal design, battery placement, and hinge mechanics. It's not an easy project. But Samsung has the resources and expertise to pull it off.

The question isn't whether it's possible. It's whether it's worth the engineering effort and cost. Samsung has to believe that stylus-equipped foldables command premium pricing and appeal to enough professionals to justify the development investment. Based on their competitive position relative to Apple, that seems likely.

What we'll see in 2025-2026 is either Samsung launching a wider foldable with S Pen (a bold move that sets a new direction) or Samsung sticking with incremental improvements to the existing formula (a conservative move that avoids risk). The competitive pressure from Apple probably forces the bolder option.

For consumers, this is actually good news. More features, more competition, more choices. Samsung gets pushed to innovate. Foldables get richer functionality. The market matures.

Just don't expect S Pen to become a mass-market feature overnight. It'll remain what it's always been: a specialized tool for people who want it, ignored by everyone else. The difference is it'll be available when you need it, not something you have to hunt for on an older device.

That's progress. Not revolutionary, but meaningful in a market that's starting to mature.

Key Takeaways

• Samsung removed S Pen support from Z Fold 4+ to prioritize thinness, but competitive pressure from Apple's rumored iPhone Fold is pushing them to bring it back
• A wider foldable display provides the physical space needed to integrate stylus technology without compromising the device's thinness
• Stylus support transforms foldables from phones into portable productivity devices, appealing specifically to professionals, creatives, and note-takers
• Apple's potential stylus support via Apple Pencil creates narrative pressure for Samsung to reclaim stylus leadership before Apple enters the market
• Implementation timeline suggests stylus-equipped foldables arriving in 2025-2026, with pricing likely starting at $1,999 or higher

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