Samsung tri-fold smartphone may be part of company’s 2025 release plans

Samsung Tri-fold phone concept image
(Image credit: ET News)

Huawei launched the world's first triple fold phone last fall, followed almost immediately by rumors that Samsung would produce a tri-fold device of its own. Those plans could be taking shape, as a report out of Korea from Sisa Journal (via leaker Jukanlosreve) claims that Samsung's version of a phone with a triple folding display will launch this year.

Reportedly, the new phone will come out in the "second half of this year." They did not provide a more specific timeline than that.

Unlike the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design, Samsung's version is supposed to fold inward, more like a poster board at your high school science fair. That approach could offer more protection as the display wouldn't be exposed like it can be with the Mate XT. Huawei's tri-fold has reportedly suffered from screen breakage, according to Sisa Journal, a development that could be blamed on the way display folds.

Samsung Display has previously shown off tri-folding concepts with an unfolded display that measures either 10.5- or 12.4 inches.

Additionally, the report claims that Samsung will only make 300,000 total units of t. That low number does suggest that the triple folding device won't make a global a debut as we might hope. Specifically, Samsung could limit the release to Korea or China as a test to gauge interest in such a foldable.

An unnamed industry insider claimed to Sisa, "Since it is the first time they are releasing this form factor, they will likely be concentrating on development with a focus on perfection above all else."

The other information we don't have is a price for the potential new phone. The Mate XT launched for an eye-popping $3,000, though that price may be higher due to shortages and a gouging second-hand market. The Sisa report suggests Samsung's tri-fold might have a similarly high price but not much more.

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Scott Younker
West Coast Reporter

Scott Younker is the West Coast Reporter at Tom’s Guide. He covers all the lastest tech news. He’s been involved in tech since 2011 at various outlets and is on an ongoing hunt to build the easiest to use home media system. When not writing about the latest devices, you are more than welcome to discuss board games or disc golf with him.