Samsung Launches Galaxy Z TriFold: A New Era in Foldable Smartphones

Samsung Electronics Co. has officially unveiled its first multi-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, which features a unique design with two hinges, allowing it to transform into a tablet-sized device. The launch is set for December 12 in South Korea, with a price of approximately 3.59 million won (about $2,450). The device will also be available in markets including China, Taiwan, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates, with a U.S. release anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.

CityLabReutersThe Verge

The Galaxy Z TriFold boasts a 10-inch inner display with a resolution of 2160 x 1584 and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. It can run three applications simultaneously and supports Samsung's DeX desktop environment. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, includes 16GB of RAM, and features a total battery capacity of 5,600mAh, distributed across its three panels. The camera setup includes a 200-megapixel wide-angle lens, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto lens, along with dual 10-megapixel selfie cameras.

The Verge

Samsung's introduction of the Galaxy Z TriFold comes at a time when competition in the foldable smartphone market is intensifying. Chinese manufacturer Huawei launched the industry's first three-way folding phone in September, and Apple is expected to release its own foldable device next year. Despite these advancements, analysts predict that foldable phones will remain a niche market, accounting for less than 2% of total smartphone sales in 2025, with growth projected to reach only 3% by 2027.

ReutersCityLabThe Verge

Alex Lim, Executive Vice President at Samsung Electronics, stated, "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." However, he acknowledged that the TriFold is aimed at a specific customer base rather than as a volume driver. Ryu Young-ho, a senior analyst at NH Investment & Securities, noted, "The trifold is a first-generation product... it’s hard to see Samsung pushing large volumes at this stage."

Reuters

Despite the excitement surrounding the Galaxy Z TriFold, some analysts express skepticism regarding its market viability. Concerns have been raised about high production costs and the durability of the new design. The foldable smartphone segment has historically struggled with mass production, and the TriFold's price point may limit its appeal to consumers.

Reuters

While Samsung's shipment share of the foldable market reportedly surged to 64% in the third quarter of 2025, analysts caution that this figure may fluctuate significantly with the timing of product launches. There is also uncertainty regarding the long-term durability of the TriFold, as it is the first of its kind to be commercialized.

Reuters

• “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,” — Alex Lim, Executive Vice President, Samsung Electronics

Reuters

• “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,” — Ryu Young-ho, Senior Analyst, NH Investment & Securities

Reuters

The Galaxy Z TriFold represents a significant step for Samsung in the foldable smartphone market, but its success will depend on consumer reception and the company's ability to navigate production challenges.

Reuters