You Won't Believe What Samsung's New Tri-Fold Smartphone Can Do—Is It a Game Changer or a Total Flop?

In a world where smartphones have become essential hubs for connectivity, entertainment, and productivity, Samsung's latest innovation—the Galaxy Z TriFold smartphone—introduces a bold leap in foldable technology. This new device, which features an impressive tri-fold design, aims to combine the functionality of a compact smartphone with the expansive screen real estate typically associated with tablets.

Years ago, mobile phones were simple devices, like the beloved Motorola Star TAC flip-phone, cherished for their portability. However, as technology evolved, smartphones emerged, offering a plethora of features at the expense of size and convenience. Now, with advancements in display technology, Samsung is attempting to redefine portability with its tri-fold design, allowing for a 10-inch display that folds neatly into a device similar in size to a traditional smartphone.

The Market Dynamics

The introduction of the Galaxy Z TriFold comes at a pivotal moment in the smartphone industry, marked by intense competition between tech giants Samsung and Apple. While Apple has long held sway over the U.S. smartphone market, Samsung has maintained a robust presence globally. Recent reports suggest that Apple is closing the gap, with projections indicating it could overtake Samsung in worldwide sales shortly. As the two companies vie for dominance, Samsung's early launch of the tri-fold device appears to be a strategic move to capture market share ahead of Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone, expected in 2026.

At a price point of approximately $2,400 (3.6 million won), the Galaxy Z TriFold targets a high-end market segment. This pricing may deter some consumers, but it positions Samsung as a leader in the foldable smartphone arena. The device is designed to serve as a "trial balloon," gauging consumer interest in this novel form factor while pushing the limits of what a smartphone can do.

Samsung Co-CEO Tim Roh emphasized the significance of the TriFold, stating, “Through years of innovation in foldable form factors, Galaxy Z TriFold solves one of the mobile industry’s longest-standing challenges—delivering the perfect balance between portability, premium performance, and productivity all in one device.” This statement underscores Samsung’s commitment to advancing mobile technology and pushing forward the boundaries of what’s possible.

Notably, Samsung isn't the only player in this space; just 90 days prior, Huawei Technologies unveiled its own tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT, with a heftier price tag of $2,800. This rapid evolution and competition highlight a growing trend in the smartphone market as consumers seek devices that marry form and function.

The surge in foldable smartphone shipments—rising 45% year-over-year in Q2 2025—reflects an increasing consumer appetite for innovative designs. According to Liz Lee, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, both Samsung and Huawei are currently in an "experimental phase," using these initial models to validate aspects like durability and software functionality before launching more refined versions to the wider market.

The Galaxy Z TriFold boasts Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, tailored specifically for this model, and includes five cameras—three rear-facing and two front-facing, with one featuring an impressive 200-megapixel resolution. Furthermore, the device incorporates a new, more durable display technology with an added reinforced layer, enhancing its shock resistance and longevity.

This latest move by Samsung signals a bold commitment to drive innovation in the smartphone industry, particularly as competitors prepare to enter the foldable space. As the market evolves, consumers may find themselves increasingly drawn to devices that offer the best of both worlds: the convenience of portability and the expansive capabilities of larger screens.

In summary, the Galaxy Z TriFold represents a significant shift in smartphone design, combining cutting-edge technology with practical functionality. The stakes are high, and how consumers respond to this pioneering device could very well influence the trajectory of the evolving smartphone landscape.