Samsung Electronics has unveiled its first multi-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, as the South Korean tech giant seeks to strengthen its position in a competitive and rapidly evolving foldable phone market. The launch comes amid rising interest from Chinese rivals and anticipation of Apple entering the segment next year.
The Galaxy Z TriFold, priced at approximately 3.59 million won ($2,440), features a three-panel design that unfolds into a 10-inch (253.1 mm) display, nearly 25% larger than Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold 7. The device is equipped with the largest battery in Samsung’s flagship foldable lineup and supports super-fast charging, reaching 50% in just 30 minutes.
“I believe the foldable market will continue to grow, and the TriFold in particular could act as a catalyst that drives more explosive growth in key parts of the segment,” said Alex Lim, Executive Vice President and head of Samsung Korea Sales & Marketing. He emphasised that the device targets specific customers seeking a multi-foldable phone, rather than aiming to drive large-volume sales.
The TriFold will go on sale in South Korea on December 12 and will later be rolled out in China, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates. A US launch is expected in the first quarter of next year. Rising costs for memory chips and components have made pricing a challenging decision, Lim noted.
Analysts see the TriFold primarily as a showcase for Samsung’s technological capabilities rather than a volume-driving flagship. “The trifold is a first-generation product, and it’s the first time a trifold design is being commercialised, so it’s hard to see Samsung pushing large volumes at this stage,” said Ryu Young-ho, senior analyst at NH Investment & Securities. Durability and design refinement will be key for market acceptance.
Competition in the foldable segment is heating up. Huawei launched its first three-way folding phone last September, while Apple is expected to release its first foldable next year. Despite rising interest, foldable devices remain a niche market, projected to account for less than 2% of total smartphone sales this year and under 3% by 2027, according to Counterpoint Research.
Samsung’s foldable market share surged to 64% in the third quarter from 9% in the previous quarter, reflecting the timing of product launches and market dynamics. Counterpoint predicts foldable smartphones will grow 14% this year, followed by annual growth in the 30% range in 2026 and 2027 as more competitors enter the market.
The Galaxy Z TriFold underscores Samsung’s ambition to lead innovation in foldable devices, combining cutting-edge design with high-end specifications while preparing for intensified competition from global rivals.
Melissa Enoch
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