Two Folds, One Giant Screen: The Samsung Tri-Fold Phone Is Real!

Samsung has finally shown off something that’s been rumoured for years — a tri-fold smartphone that folds twice.

The device made a surprise appearance at the APEC Summit in South Korea, giving the public its first real glimpse of what could be the next leap in foldable technology.

Unlike the familiar Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, which use a single hinge, this new design folds in two places to form a “G-shaped” structure, expanding into a tablet-sized display when fully opened.

If this prototype becomes a commercial product, it could mark a major step in Samsung’s initiative to dominate the foldable market yet again.

At the APEC 2025 event in Seoul, Samsung discreetly showcased a working prototype of its tri-fold phone. The device reportedly folds inward twice, transforming from a compact smartphone into a large 10-inch-class screen — effectively bridging the gap between a phone, tablet, and mini-laptop.

According to reports from CNET and The Korea Economic Daily, Samsung’s display division referred to the prototype as the “Galaxy Tri-Fold”, designed to demonstrate its latest flexible OLED technology. While it wasn’t an official product launch, it signalled that the company is well past the concept phase.

The Samsung Tri Fold phone features two internal hinges, allowing it to bend into three connected panels. When fully folded, it functions as a standard smartphone; unfold one section, and you get a mini-tablet; open it completely, and it becomes a full widescreen display.

Unlike the single-hinge Galaxy Z Fold 7, which opens like a book, the tri-fold’s “G-fold” pattern helps keep the screen tucked safely inside when closed, reducing the risk of scratches. This approach also improves portability; even though it’s larger when open, it still folds neatly into a pocket-sized shape.

Samsung hasn’t released official specifications yet, but several leaks and supply-chain hints suggest what we might expect:

• Display: Around 10 inches unfolded, with improved Ultra Thin Glass for durability.

• Chipset: Likely powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

• Camera setup: Comparable or slightly above the Z Fold 7 line.

• Battery: Dual-cell configuration, possibly around 5,000 mAh total.

• Software: Enhanced multitasking — think three apps running side-by-side with adaptive transitions.

Overall, the tri-fold seems built for productivity and entertainment, combining the portability of a phone with the utility of a tablet.

Industry reports from KED Global point to a late-2025 release window, possibly following Samsung’s regular August Unpacked event. Early indications suggest the device may launch first in select Asian markets — South Korea, Singapore, China, and the UAE — before expanding globally.

Pricing will likely reflect its experimental nature. Analysts expect it to exceed the $1,800 USD range of the Galaxy Z Fold 7, putting it squarely in ultra-premium territory.

The tri-fold represents more than a design upgrade — it’s Samsung’s way of proving flexible display tech is ready for mainstream use. A dual-hinge phone pushes hardware, materials, and software design to their limits.

If successful, it could redefine how we view portable devices: one product that can switch between phone, tablet, and workstation modes. It also reinforces Samsung’s dominance in foldable innovation, staying ahead of rivals like Huawei and Honor, who’ve shown early interest in similar designs.

A new form factor means new challenges for case makers. Traditional foldable cases won’t fit the tri-fold’s extra hinge or three-panel layout. Protection and flexibility will have to go hand-in-hand, especially around the hinge areas where stress is highest.

Accessory brands will likely wait for final dimensions before designing cases, screen protectors, or MagSafe-style accessories. Still, those who move early could gain a huge advantage — just as they did during the original Galaxy Z Fold rollout.

Here’s why some users are excited: (media-mode, screen size).

Meanwhile, these are what a few were worried about: (hinge wear, cost, practicality).

Samsung’s tri-fold phone is no longer a rumour — it’s real, functional, and closer to launch than ever. It may take time before it’s practical or affordable for most users, but it marks an exciting step in the evolution of foldable tech.

2025 could be the year we see smartphones truly unfold twice. And when that happens, it’ll likely be Samsung taking the most credit.