In addition to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 coming in late 2024, the possibility of a third foldable handset is growing, and this could finally be the year we see an inexpensive foldable phone from Samsung.

The latest indication comes from a report from Winfuture.de, which claims that Samsung is "definitely" working on a cheaper version of the Galaxy Z Fold. The evidence comes from export data showing that small amounts of components are being used to replace the Galaxy Z Fold. Allegedly, Samsung is developing a prototype with an internal model number of Q6A; the Galaxy Z Fold 6's model number is believed to be Q6.

This is not the first time we have heard that a less expensive Galaxy Fold is in development. A report from Korea made a similar claim last week.

There is certainly room for a cheaper version of the Fold. The current Galaxy Z Fold 5 costs $1,799, the same price as the Google Pixel Fold. The OnePlus Open, our pick for the best foldable phone, is cheaper, but the difference is only $100. A cheaper version of the Fold would broaden the appeal of the device, although other Fold users would likely opt for the more feature-rich version.

Reports earlier this week suggested that Samsung is experimenting with new ways to manufacture the bezels of its foldable phones and that inkjet printing is emerging as a possible way to lower the Fold's manufacturing costs. Perhaps by lowering the cost of parts for a future Galaxy Z Fold, Samsung will be able to sell the phone at a lower price. [According to this Winfuture.de report, a cheaper version of the Galaxy Z Fold will have a screen that folds horizontally. The current Galaxy Z Fold 5 opens up like a book to reveal a large display inside. The site speculates that the lower-priced version will be called the Galaxy A Fold or will be sold as a Fan Edition device, similar to the Galaxy S23 FE, a lower-priced version of last year's Galaxy S flagship.

Little other information is available on how the lower-priced Galaxy Fold will differ from the full-priced model. Possibilities include a different size screen, a less powerful chipset, fewer cameras, and different storage options.

Over the past year, more competitors have entered the foldable phone market. And more rivals may be on the way, as rumors persist that the iPhone Flip may appear next year. Before that happens, Samsung will clearly benefit by offering shoppers more choices at lower prices.

Samsung typically unveils its latest foldable phone at its Galaxy Unpacked event in August. Expect more details on potential additions to the foldable lineup between now and then.