Samsung’s tri-foldable phone launch: It’s getting longer than we thought

There has been significant buzz surrounding Samsung’s development of a triple-foldable smartphone, especially after Huawei unveiled its own tri-fold device, the Mate XT, in China. However, the Mate XT was only released in China, leaving enthusiasts in other regions disappointed. Samsung now has the chance to be the first company to launch a triple-foldable phone globally. However, recent reports indicate a delay in Samsung’s timeline for the device's release.

Analyst Ross Young has reportedly suggested that Samsung’s tri-fold phone may now be delayed until early 2026, rather than launching next year as initially expected. This delay coincides with rumours that Apple may also be preparing to release its first foldable phone around the same time. While Samsung is already a leader in the foldable phone market, the tri-fold model would mark an exciting new chapter for the company. On the other hand, Apple would be entering the foldable market for the first time, if the rumours are true.

Despite the delay, the ongoing reports about the device’s progress signal that the tri-fold phone is still in development, adding credibility to the speculation. Several rumours have already surfaced about the phone's design and specifications. While Samsung’s tri-fold phone is expected to share similarities with the Huawei Mate XT, such as a foldable design, there will likely be key differences in how the phones fold.

Huawei’s Mate XT uses a design where three screens fold back onto each other, leaving the outer displays exposed. When closed, the leftmost screen serves as the main display. However, this exposed design increases the risk of damage. In contrast, Samsung’s tri-fold device is rumoured to feature an “infolding” design, where the screen folds inward twice, keeping the display protected and reducing the likelihood of damage.

The fully unfolded Samsung tri-fold phone is expected to offer a larger screen size of approximately 9-10 inches, a significant upgrade from the 7.6-inch main display of the Galaxy Z Fold 6. In addition to the tri-fold phone, there are reports suggesting that Samsung may also release a more affordable version of next year’s Galaxy Flip, likely the Galaxy Z Flip 7, catering to budget-conscious customers.