Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, a smartphone with a three-panel foldable display, in 2025. Leaks suggest advanced multitasking features, powerful camera upgrades, and a new dual-hinge design. If confirmed, the device could signal a major shift in the smartphone industry, placing Samsung at the forefront of foldable technology innovation.
Evolution of Samsung’s Foldables
Samsung has pioneered foldable smartphones since 2019, when it introduced the Galaxy Fold. Despite initial setbacks over durability, the company refined its approach with the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip series. These models gradually improved hinge design, display resilience, and software optimization, turning foldables into a stable segment within Samsung’s portfolio.
The Galaxy Z TriFold would represent the company’s most ambitious project yet — expanding from two folding states to three, effectively combining a smartphone, tablet, and small laptop in one device. According to industry observers, this could mark a natural next step in Samsung’s strategy to differentiate itself in a highly saturated smartphone market.
What the Leaks Reveal
Reports from TechRadar and Android Central indicate the Galaxy Z TriFold may employ an inward-folding dual hinge, known as a “G-fold” design. This mechanism allows the main display to remain protected when closed, reducing exposure to scratches and dust.
Leaked code from Samsung’s One UI 8 software suggests support for complex multitasking functions. These include floating app windows, drag-and-drop operations between apps, and deeper integration with Samsung DeX, which turns the device into a desktop-style workstation when connected to a monitor.
Android Authority reported that some internal files reference the device as the “Galaxy G Fold,” hinting at Samsung’s experimental naming strategy before official branding is confirmed.
Advanced Camera and Display Features
Camera technology has long been a weakness of foldables compared with flagship smartphones. The Galaxy Z TriFold may change that. According to leaks cited by SamMobile, the device could feature a 200-megapixel primary camera sensor, similar to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, along with up to 100x digital zoom.
Such specifications, if accurate, would allow the TriFold to compete directly with premium camera-focused smartphones. The challenge will be integrating advanced optical modules into a body that must remain relatively thin and light despite its complex folding mechanism.
The unfolded display is expected to provide a tablet-sized screen suitable for streaming, gaming, and productivity. Analysts note that Samsung Display, the company’s panel manufacturing arm, has invested heavily in flexible OLED technology, positioning it well to deliver a seamless user experience.
Market Position and Competition
The Galaxy Z TriFold would enter a competitive landscape. Huawei has already released the Mate XT, a tri-fold device available in China. Other firms, including Oppo and Xiaomi, have also showcased experimental foldable concepts.
However, Samsung retains a dominant position in the global foldables market, with Counterpoint Research estimating it controlled nearly 65 percent of shipments in 2023. Analysts argue that Samsung’s established supply chain, global marketing power, and strong brand recognition give it an advantage over rivals.
Apple and Google, while absent from the foldable market so far, are closely watched. Experts believe Apple could eventually enter the segment with a foldable iPhone or iPad, while Google’s Pixel Fold suggests its interest in the category.
Consumer Perspective
While innovation excites the technology sector, consumer adoption depends on practical factors. Surveys conducted by IDC show that the top barriers to foldable adoption remain high price, durability concerns, and limited app optimization.
If Samsung prices the TriFold significantly above the Galaxy Z Fold series — which already retails above USD 1,800 in many markets — mainstream adoption may be restricted to early adopters and professionals. Analysts suggest that a price above USD 2,500 would narrow its audience further.
Battery performance is another concern. Driving three display sections while supporting high-end camera modules will require careful power management. Weak battery life could limit the device’s everyday practicality.
Technical and Supply Chain Challenges
The engineering behind a tri-fold design introduces new complexities. A dual-hinge structure must withstand thousands of folds without mechanical failure. Past foldable models faced criticism for visible creases and hinge malfunctions, making durability a top priority.
Samsung Display is reportedly developing ultra-thin glass layers and advanced hinge systems to improve resilience. Industry analysts also highlight potential challenges in scaling up production, given the precision required in panel alignment and hinge assembly.
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Regional Strategy and Launch Timeline
According to The Verge, Samsung Electronics has confirmed that it will release a tri-fold device in 2025. Leaks suggest the official unveiling could occur in October, with initial availability in South Korea and China. Broader rollout to Europe and the United States may follow later.
This cautious approach mirrors Samsung’s strategy with the original Galaxy Fold, which launched in limited markets before expanding globally. Analysts say this allows the company to test demand, manage supply chain risks, and address potential technical issues before mass production.
Expert Commentary
“Tri-fold devices represent the next frontier in flexible smartphones,” said Bryan Ma, Vice President at IDC. “If Samsung executes well, it could solidify its leadership in this niche, but durability and pricing will determine success.”
TM Roh, President of Samsung’s Mobile eXperience Business, has previously stated that the company sees foldables as “a core pillar of innovation” and hinted at exploring “new form factors that combine productivity with mobility.”
Future Outlook
The success of the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold could influence the trajectory of the broader smartphone industry. Analysts envision a future where foldable devices replace tablets and even entry-level laptops, especially as artificial intelligence and cloud-based productivity tools become more integrated.
However, some experts caution that tri-folds may remain a premium niche for several years, given production costs and consumer hesitancy. Broader adoption will depend on whether Samsung can deliver a reliable, affordable product that solves real user needs rather than serving as a novelty.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, if launched as leaked, will be one of the most ambitious smartphones to date. With a tri-fold design, advanced camera specifications, and enhanced multitasking features, it has the potential to redefine how consumers view foldable devices.
Yet major hurdles remain: durability, affordability, and battery performance. If Samsung addresses these challenges, the TriFold could mark a pivotal step in transforming foldables from experimental products to mainstream tools.
