Samsung fans hoping to see the company’s first-ever tri-fold smartphone debut this summer will have to wait a little longer. According to a new report from reliable tipster @MaxJmb on X, while Samsung is actively developing a tri-fold phone, it won’t be ready in time for the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event in mid-2025.
Tri-Fold Hopes Dashed
Just yesterday, reports emerged suggesting that Samsung would unveil its tri-fold smartphone alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 during its highly anticipated Summer Unpacked event. However, new information has surfaced contradicting these claims, stating that the device’s release has been pushed back indefinitely.
While Samsung remains at the forefront of foldable smartphone innovation, it now appears that the company will take a more cautious approach before launching this highly anticipated new form factor.
Why the Delay?
Samsung has been experimenting with multi-fold display technology for years, showcasing concept prototypes at various tech events. The company even revealed a “Flex In & Out” tri-folding OLED panel at CES 2023, which was widely believed to be the foundation of its future tri-fold smartphone.
However, transitioning from a prototype to mass production comes with significant engineering and durability challenges. Some potential reasons behind the delay could include:
- Durability Concerns: A tri-fold design introduces two folding hinges, which increases the risk of wear and tear over time. Samsung may still be refining the hinge mechanisms to ensure long-term reliability.
- Software Optimization: A new folding mechanism means optimized software is necessary to fully leverage the form factor, ensuring seamless app continuity across multiple display modes.
- Production and Supply Chain Constraints: Developing a completely new type of foldable requires advanced manufacturing processes. Samsung may be facing supply chain delays or production challenges that need to be resolved before a full-scale launch.
- Strategic Positioning: With Huawei already leading the tri-fold race, Samsung could be waiting for the perfect moment to launch a polished and superior alternative.
The Competition: Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate
While Samsung fine-tunes its tri-fold device, Huawei has already beaten the South Korean giant to market with the Mate XT Ultimate Design—the world’s first commercially available tri-fold smartphone.
Huawei Mate XT Ultimate: A Game-Changer?
- Display: The Mate XT Ultimate features a 10.2-inch flexible OLED display when fully unfolded.
- Multi-Fold Capabilities: The device can be used in multiple screen configurations, allowing users to switch between a compact, standard, or full tablet mode.
- Global Expansion: Huawei recently expanded availability beyond China, bringing its tri-fold device to select international markets.
This means that Samsung’s once-exclusive advantage in foldables is now being challenged, adding pressure for the company to perfect its tri-fold device before launch.
What’s Next for Samsung’s Foldables?
Despite the delay, Samsung is not stepping back from the foldable race. The company is still expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 at its Summer Unpacked event.
Additionally, Samsung is reportedly working on multiple folding form factors, including:
- A “Rollable” Smartphone: A device with a display that can expand and retract, similar to LG’s scrapped rollable project.
- A “Slidable” Display Phone: A device where the screen extends horizontally, offering a tablet-sized experience in a pocketable form.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s tri-fold smartphone is still on the horizon, but its arrival won’t happen as soon as many had hoped. The delay gives Samsung more time to perfect the hardware, software, and user experience, ensuring that its tri-fold offering meets the high expectations of foldable enthusiasts.
As the foldable smartphone market continues to evolve rapidly, it will be interesting to see if another company beats Samsung to the punch or if the tech giant manages to reclaim dominance with a truly groundbreaking tri-fold device.
For now, all eyes are on Samsung’s Summer Unpacked event, where the next generation of foldables will take center stage—just without the tri-fold phone.
