Samsung Reportedly Unveiling Tri-Fold Smartphone This Week
Samsung is reportedly unveiling its tri-fold smartphone this week at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, according to a report from The Korea Herald. The device is reportedly slated for mass production and a commercial release later this year.
The new device introduces a new form factor, featuring a display that folds three times. When closed, it offers a 6.5-inch cover display. When fully unfolded, it reveals a 10-inch main display, which is larger than the 8-inch display on the recently launched Galaxy Z Fold7.
While official specifications have not been confirmed, industry rumours suggest the phone will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. It is also expected to feature a 200-megapixel primary camera with 100x zoom capabilities and software optimised for the three-screen design, including enhanced multi-window functionality.
This launch is seen as a strategic move by Samsung to test the market for devices that bridge the gap between smartphones and tablets, and to reassert its position in the next-generation foldable market.
This new device arrives as Samsung faces intensified competition. According to market tracker Counterpoint Research, Samsung’s global market share for foldable phones fell to 9% in the second quarter of this year, while competitor Huawei captured 45% of the market. Huawei has already launched its own tri-fold phone, the Mate XT.
The immediate financial impact of the new tri-fold device may be modest. Initial production is expected to be limited to between 50,000 and 200,000 units, which will be available only in select markets. Industry sources suggest the launch is focused more on reinforcing Samsung’s technological leadership rather than driving immediate, large-scale sales.
Pricing remains a key point of speculation, with industry watchers estimating the device could cost around 4 million won (approximately RM11,690). A Samsung official stated that the company is “still evaluating options internally” and has not confirmed a final price.
