Samsung’s entry into the tri-fold smartphone arena has been one of the most anticipated developments in mobile tech for years. Building on the success of its Galaxy Z Fold series, the Korean giant is reportedly gearing up to launch its first triple-screen device, tentatively named the Galaxy Z TriFold. This phone promises to blur the lines between smartphones and tablets with its expansive display and innovative folding mechanism. As of October 13, 2025, leaks, patents, and official teases have painted a vivid picture of what’s coming—though Samsung has kept many details under wraps. Here’s a comprehensive roundup of the rumors, specs, and timeline based on the latest reports.
Design and Build
The Galaxy Z TriFold stands out with its dual-hinge system, allowing it to fold twice for a total of three display sections. Unlike single-fold devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, this setup creates a more compact form when closed while unfolding into a tablet-sized canvas.
- Folding Style: Inward-folding (G-shaped configuration), which protects the screens better than outward-folding designs seen in competitors like Huawei’s Mate XT. Animations from One UI 8 leaks show it folding into three rear panels, with a dedicated cover screen on the outside.
- Dimensions and Thickness: When fully folded, it’s expected to measure around 6.5 inches tall with a thickness of about 11-12mm (thinner than early concepts). Unfolded, it expands dramatically.
- Durability: Likely IP68 or IP69 water and dust resistance, with advanced hinge tech to minimize creases. Patents suggest a “wide hinge” and “narrow hinge” for smoother operation.
- Unique Feature: A three-battery setup—one per section—to distribute weight and improve endurance, addressing common foldable pain points like bulkiness.
This design could replace your tablet for multitasking, media consumption, or even light productivity, but early concepts at CES 2025 highlighted potential challenges like hinge reliability.
Display
The star of the show is the screen real estate, which could make the TriFold a game-changer for immersive viewing.
| State | Screen Size | Type/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Fully Folded | ~6.49-6.5 inches | Outer cover display for quick glances and basic use. LTPO OLED for adaptive refresh rates (1-120Hz). |
| Partially Unfolded | ~7-8 inches (one fold) | Intermediate mode for split-screen multitasking. |
| Fully Unfolded | 9.96-10.8 inches | Massive inner OLED panel, 1.5K resolution, 10-bit color, and 420PPI density. Supports stylus input like S Pen. |
Leaks emphasize a “much larger screen than before,” with minimal bezels and under-panel sensors for a seamless look. The display’s flexibility is key, folding without excessive creases thanks to Samsung Display’s innovations.
Specs and Performance
Powered by flagship silicon, the TriFold is rumored to pack premium internals suited for its ambitious form factor.
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (or Elite 2 in some leaks), ensuring smooth performance for AI features and heavy multitasking.
- RAM/Storage: Up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage options (256GB to 1TB).
- Battery: 7,000mAh+ total capacity across three cells, with 25-45W wired charging and 15-50W wireless. Expect all-day use even with the big screen.
- Cameras: Triple rear setup with a 200MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto (3x optical zoom). Front cameras likely 10-16MP per section for video calls. Similar camera island design to the Z Fold 7.
- Software: Ships with One UI 8 based on Android 16, optimized for multi-screen workflows (e.g., drag-and-drop across panels). Galaxy AI enhancements for productivity and photo editing.
- Other: Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, USB-C 3.2, and potential S Pen support. Cooling via a large vapor chamber to handle the power demands.
These specs position it as a premium device, potentially outpacing rivals in display size while matching high-end performance.
Release Date and Availability
Samsung has been teasing this since early 2025, with development in “final stages” as confirmed by Mobile Chief TM Roh in September.
- Announcement: Expected at a special event on October 21, 2025, possibly alongside Samsung’s XR headset and AI glasses.
- Launch and Sales: Initial rollout in late October (Asia first, around October 27-31 during the APEC Summit in South Korea). Wider global availability confirmed beyond China and South Korea, including the US, India, UAE, and Europe.
- Production: Limited to ~50,000-180,000 units initially, targeting enthusiasts. Pre-orders may start soon after reveal.
This broader launch signals Samsung’s confidence, especially after strong Z Fold 7 sales.
Price and Competition
Expect a steep entry point—rumors peg it at $2,200-$3,000 (₹1.8-2.5 lakh in India), reflecting the cutting-edge tech and limited supply. That’s pricier than the Z Fold 7 (~$1,800) but competitive with Huawei’s Mate XT (~$2,800 in China).
- Pros: Unmatched screen size, innovative batteries, ecosystem integration.
- Cons: High cost, potential availability issues, and questions about everyday practicality (e.g., pocketability).
Rivals like Huawei’s Mate XT and emerging devices from Tecno or TCL add pressure, but Samsung’s global reach and software polish could dominate.
What’s Next?
With the October 21 event looming, we could see official renders and hands-on demos soon. If Samsung nails the usability—like seamless app optimization across three screens—this could redefine foldables. Stay tuned for updates, as production tweaks or surprises (e.g., XR tie-ins) are still possible. Would you splurge on a tri-fold, or stick to traditional slabs?
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