Samsung has filed a new patent that shows an innovative way to store the S Pen inside the hinge of a future foldable smartphone. The concept could solve a key challenge the company faces in integrating stylus support into its Z Fold series.
Hinge-Based Stylus Housing
The patent details a hinge mechanism that includes a slot to securely house the S Pen. The stylus would sit within the central fold of the device, possibly allowing it to be stored and charged discreetly.
According to the filing, the design aims to balance convenience and durability. The hinge not only supports the device’s foldable action but also protects the S Pen from external damage when not in use.
This idea marks a shift from Samsung’s previous designs, where the S Pen was either not included or had to be carried separately.
Z Fold 7 Dropped S Pen Support
At its July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 7. While the device introduced a slimmer, lighter profile, it dropped S Pen support altogether.
Samsung cited design limitations for the decision. The company said the new ultra-thin build couldn’t accommodate the necessary digitizer layer or a stylus slot.
“We’re prioritizing design and portability,” said Samsung Mobile President TM Roh during the event.
Could the S Pen Return?
Despite the Fold 7’s omission, Samsung executives have hinted that S Pen support may return in future models.
A spokesperson stated that the company is “re-evaluating S Pen inclusion” for upcoming devices and is working on slimmer stylus technology.
This new patent suggests one direction that effort could take. By integrating the S Pen into the hinge, Samsung may bypass the need to thicken the display or chassis.
Competitive Pressure Rising
Samsung faces growing competition in the foldable space. Brands like Honor, Huawei, and Motorola have launched foldables with sleeker designs and new features.
Some of these models include stylus support, increasing pressure on Samsung to deliver both design and functionality.
Meanwhile, rumors continue to circulate about a tri-fold Galaxy device that might debut in 2026. That form factor could provide extra internal space for components like the S Pen.
What’s Next?
The hinge-based S Pen slot is still a concept on paper. It may never make it to production. However, the patent underscores Samsung’s continued interest in enhancing its foldables with stylus features.
Consumers and tech watchers will be looking to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected in mid-2026, for any signs of the S Pen’s return.
Until then, Samsung’s foldable strategy appears to favor thinness and portability—though stylus fans are still holding out hope.
Hinge-Based Stylus Housing
The patent details a hinge mechanism that includes a slot to securely house the S Pen. The stylus would sit within the central fold of the device, possibly allowing it to be stored and charged discreetly.
According to the filing, the design aims to balance convenience and durability. The hinge not only supports the device’s foldable action but also protects the S Pen from external damage when not in use.
This idea marks a shift from Samsung’s previous designs, where the S Pen was either not included or had to be carried separately.
Z Fold 7 Dropped S Pen Support
At its July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 7. While the device introduced a slimmer, lighter profile, it dropped S Pen support altogether.
Samsung cited design limitations for the decision. The company said the new ultra-thin build couldn’t accommodate the necessary digitizer layer or a stylus slot.
“We’re prioritizing design and portability,” said Samsung Mobile President TM Roh during the event.
Could the S Pen Return?
Despite the Fold 7’s omission, Samsung executives have hinted that S Pen support may return in future models.
A spokesperson stated that the company is “re-evaluating S Pen inclusion” for upcoming devices and is working on slimmer stylus technology.
This new patent suggests one direction that effort could take. By integrating the S Pen into the hinge, Samsung may bypass the need to thicken the display or chassis.
Competitive Pressure Rising
Samsung faces growing competition in the foldable space. Brands like Honor, Huawei, and Motorola have launched foldables with sleeker designs and new features.
Some of these models include stylus support, increasing pressure on Samsung to deliver both design and functionality.
Meanwhile, rumors continue to circulate about a tri-fold Galaxy device that might debut in 2026. That form factor could provide extra internal space for components like the S Pen.
What’s Next?
The hinge-based S Pen slot is still a concept on paper. It may never make it to production. However, the patent underscores Samsung’s continued interest in enhancing its foldables with stylus features.
Consumers and tech watchers will be looking to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected in mid-2026, for any signs of the S Pen’s return.
Until then, Samsung’s foldable strategy appears to favor thinness and portability—though stylus fans are still holding out hope.
