Samsung Affirms Tri-Fold Smartphone Development, Potential Release Slated for This Year
Samsung, a global leader in the smartphone market, is gearing up to revolutionise the foldable smartphone category with the upcoming launch of its tri-fold phone. The device, currently in the development stage, is expected to hit the shelves by the end of 2025, according to Samsung's acting head of device experience, TM Roh.
The tri-fold phone, if released, could mark a significant innovation, surpassing the existing single-fold devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, which were unveiled in July 2025. The device is rumoured to boast a massive 10-inch display and a Snapdragon processor.
However, the tri-fold design poses complexities compared to its single-fold counterparts. Minseok Kang, Samsung's head of smartphone planning, acknowledged the challenges, stating that the tri-folding is a more intricate endeavour. Key considerations for its mass production, set to begin in September 2025, include the complexity of the tri-fold design and ensuring completeness in the form factor, user satisfaction, and readiness for mass production.
The high production difficulty is likely to result in limited availability and a higher price point for the tri-fold phone. Samsung has not revealed detailed specifications or features yet but is taking extra time to ensure the product meets quality and durability standards before wider release.
The tri-fold phone will be the second tri-fold device in the market, with Huawei being the only other company currently selling a tri-fold phone. Samsung has officially spoken about the tri-fold phone for the first time, and Minseok Kang stated that they are evaluating key points for the final decision to commercialize the tri-fold phone.
As for the launch, Samsung may hold a separate event later in the year for the tri-fold phone, or it may be unveiled alongside the Galaxy S26 series at the next Unpacked event in January 2026. With the tri-fold phone, Samsung is poised to push the boundaries of innovation in the smartphone industry.
The tri-fold phone, rumored to boast a massive 10-inch display and a Snapdragon processor, is expected to surpass existing foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. However, the tri-fold design's complexity may result in limited availability and a higher price point, setting it apart from other smartphones and gadgets in the technology market.
