Samsung has unveiled its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy TriFold, at the APEC summit in South Korea this week. This move highlights the company’s push into advanced foldable tech, with a launch expected before the end of 2025, offering users a device that expands into a 10-inch tablet while folding down to pocket size.
Early Showcase Sparks Excitement
World leaders and tech fans got a first look at the Galaxy TriFold during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, on October 28, 2025. Samsung displayed two units, one fully open and one closed, to show off its innovative design.
The event drew attention because it ties into broader trends in foldable phones. Companies like Samsung have led this space since the first Galaxy Fold in 2019. Now, with global smartphone sales slowing, foldables represent a growth area, expected to reach over 50 million units shipped worldwide by the end of 2025, according to market analysts.
This showcase comes amid Samsung’s busy year, including the recent debut of its Galaxy XR headset at a lower price than rivals. The timing suggests Samsung wants to build hype before the holiday season.
Unique Inward Folding Design Explained
The Galaxy TriFold stands out with its inward folding mechanism. Unlike some competitors that fold outward, this model folds both sides inward, creating a compact shape similar to a standard phone.
When unfolded, it reveals a large screen across three panels connected by two hinges. Users fold the right side first, then the left, resulting in a slim profile. Reports indicate it matches the thickness of the Galaxy S25 Ultra when closed, making it practical for everyday carry.
This design builds on Samsung’s earlier prototypes, like the Flex G shown at tech expos. It addresses common foldable issues, such as bulkiness and screen creases, through improved hinge tech. Logical reasoning points to better durability, as inward folds protect the display from scratches and drops.
Samsung’s choice reflects user feedback from previous models. Many prefer protected screens, which could help the TriFold appeal to a wider audience beyond early adopters.
The phone transforms from a 6.5-inch closed display to a 10-inch open one, ideal for multitasking like video calls or editing documents on the go.
Key Specifications and Features
Details on specs remain limited, but leaks and showcases provide a clear picture. The device runs on a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ensuring smooth performance for apps and games.
It likely includes a triple camera setup on the back, with a 200MP main sensor for high-quality photos. Battery life gets a boost from a possible three-module system, one per panel, supporting wireless and reverse charging.
Here is a quick summary of expected features:
- Display: 10-inch OLED when open, 6.5-inch cover screen
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- Camera: 200MP main, ultrawide, telephoto with 100x zoom
- Battery: Multi-module design for even power use
- Other: Supports S Pen, advanced multitasking software
Software plays a big role too. Samsung has added animations and features tailored for the tri-fold layout, like splitting the screen into three sections for different apps.
Pricing and Availability Insights
Samsung plans a limited launch, with only about 50,000 units at first. This strategy tests demand before a wider rollout, similar to past special editions.
The price tag sits around $2,800, which is higher than the Galaxy Z Fold 7 but reflects the premium tech. Availability starts in select Asian markets like South Korea, China, Singapore, and Taiwan, with potential global expansion in 2026.
This approach makes sense given production challenges for tri-folds. High costs come from complex manufacturing, but as tech improves, prices could drop, much like how early foldables went from niche to mainstream.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
The TriFold enters a competitive field. Huawei’s Mate XT, launched last year, uses an outward fold and has gained traction in China despite trade issues.
To compare key aspects:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy TriFold | Huawei Mate XT |
|---|---|---|
| Folding Type | Inward | Outward |
| Unfolded Size | 10 inches | 10.2 inches |
| Price | $2,800 | $2,800 (approx.) |
| Availability | Limited Asian markets | Mainly China |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Kirin 9010 |
Samsung’s model offers better global software support, including Google services, which Huawei lacks in many regions. This could give it an edge in markets like the US and Europe.
Recent events, such as Apple’s rumored entry into foldables by 2026, add pressure. Samsung aims to stay ahead by innovating faster.
What This Means for the Future
The Galaxy TriFold could change how people use phones, blending smartphone portability with tablet functionality. It solves problems like needing multiple devices for work and entertainment.
As foldables grow, expect more competition and lower prices. Samsung’s move aligns with industry shifts toward flexible screens in laptops and wearables.
In the end, this launch shows Samsung’s commitment to pushing boundaries. Share your thoughts in the comments: Would you buy a tri-fold phone? Let others know by spreading the word on social media.
