Samsung Electronics has stepped further into the premium smartphone arena with the launch of its first tri-fold device, the Galaxy Z TriFold.
The handset opens to a 10-inch screen across three segments, making it roughly a quarter larger than the company’s most recent foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
The TriFold, priced around 3.59 million won (Sh316,767), is designed for tech enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge devices rather than mainstream buyers. Alex Lim, Samsung’s Executive Vice President overseeing Korea Sales & Marketing, described the new model as a potential driver for accelerated innovation in the foldable category.
“Foldable smartphones are still evolving. The TriFold could spark faster adoption and interest in this niche segment,” Lim said.
Manufactured in South Korea, the phone will be available domestically from December 12, with launches planned this year in China, Singapore, Taiwan, and the UAE. The U.S. release is anticipated in the first quarter of next year.
Samsung has equipped the device with its largest flagship battery to date, along with rapid charging that fills half the battery in just 30 minutes.
Lim noted that rising prices of memory chips and other critical components contributed to the high retail cost of the device.
Industry analysts say the TriFold is more of a technological showcase than a volume-driven model. Ryu Young-ho, senior analyst at NH Investment & Securities, cautioned that as a first-generation tri-fold design, the device may face challenges around durability and refinement.
“Samsung has honed the Galaxy Z Fold series over seven iterations, but the tri-fold remains experimental. Its reception will guide future production decisions,” he explained.
The foldable smartphone sector is drawing more competition. Huawei introduced the first three-way folding phone last September, while Apple is widely expected to enter the market next year.
Still, analysts predict that high costs and limited production capabilities will keep foldables from becoming mainstream in the immediate future.
