Samsung's triple-fold phone could debut in 2025

Samsung has been showcasing its triple-fold smartphone concept, but now it might see the light of day in 2025. But with high costs and low production, the Samsung tri-fold might materialise as much as it seems.

In Short

• Samsung triple-fold smartphone might launch in the second half of 2025
• It is expected to be priced higher than the Huawei Mate XT
• Samsung’s triple-folding smartphone may feature a G-shaped design

Samsung has been working on a triple-fold smartphone for quite some time. And now finally, the company might release the tri-foldable phone this year. Samsung's involvement in developing a tri-fold smartphone isn't a new topic. Back in March 2023, rumours suggested the company might delay the Galaxy S23 FE launch—eventually released in October 2023—in favour of focusing on a groundbreaking smartphone with a triple-folding display. Samsung even showcased the concept of this tri-fold design during the Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) in October 2023. Although the tri-fold smartphone didn't debut then, it appears Samsung remains committed to this innovation, with a potential launch now anticipated in 2025.

Samsung triple-fold phone: Big prices, low production

This comes after a Chinese company, Huawei, released the world's first triple-fold smartphone in September 2024 -- Huawei Mate XT. While the concept is similar, the price gap may be huge. The Huawei Mate XT is priced at 20,000 Yuan in China (approximately Rs 2,31,800). However, a report by the Korean publication Sisa Journal indicates that Samsung’s version will come with a higher price tag. Citing insights from a display industry insider, the report highlights that the tri-fold device will feature three display panels, two internal and two external hinges, along with enhanced hardware technology—making it significantly more expensive than current foldable smartphones.

Since the display is a problematic area in the tri-fold phone, Samsung learnt its lesson from the Huawei Mate XT. As reported by the Sisa Journal, Samsung’s triple-folding smartphone will feature a G-shaped design, where the outer screens fold inward. This differs from the Huawei Mate XT’s S- or Z-shaped folding mechanism, which folds both inward and outward. The report suggests that Samsung’s innovative design will result in a more durable device overall.

But Samsung appears cautious about its new sub-category of devices, with plans to produce fewer than 3,00,000 units of the G-type triple-folding smartphone, as per the report. The device is expected to debut in the second half of 2025. Similar to the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, the initial launch will likely be restricted to South Korea and select Asian markets. A broader global rollout might depend on the device's performance and reception during the initial launch phase.

Samsung's 2025 plan for foldables

It looks like Samsung has major plans for foldable phones this year. After Galaxy Unpacked event (scheduled for January 22), which will unveil the Galaxy S25 series, the company will turn its focus on Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. This year, the company has two more foldables: Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE and a triple-fold phone. While there is a lot of variety in 2025, production is still expected to be low.

Samsung triple-fold: Expected Specs

Currently, there’s limited information available about Samsung’s tri-fold device, but one intriguing theory suggests it could feature a stunning 12.4-inch display when fully unfolded. This would position the device as a potential replacement for both a traditional smartphone and a tablet, surpassing the 10.2-inch screen of Huawei’s groundbreaking Mate XT. Interestingly, the device might also offer a partially unfolded mode with a screen size of around 10.5 inches, delivering an impressive viewing experience.

Another noteworthy rumour is the possible exclusion of under-display camera technology. While this could enhance the quality of the front-facing camera, it would necessitate a hole-punch cutout on the main screen, slightly compromising the device’s overall elegance. However, this trade-off might be worth it for improved camera performance.