Samsung Launches First Multi-Folding Phone, Raising the Stakes in Foldable Market
Galaxy Z TriFold unveiled with 10-inch display, super-fast charging, and premium pricing
Mumbai, Dec 02 : Samsung Electronics on Tuesday unveiled its first multi-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, signaling a push to strengthen its presence in the foldable segment as competition from Chinese rivals intensifies.
The Galaxy Z TriFold, priced at approximately 3.59 million won ($2,440), unfolds into a 253.1 mm (10-inch) display across three panels, nearly 25% larger than the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The device is equipped with Samsung’s largest battery in its flagship line and supports super-fast charging, reaching 50% battery in just 30 minutes.
The smartphone will go on sale in South Korea on December 12, with a rollout planned for China, Singapore, Taiwan, and the UAE later this year. The U.S. launch is expected in Q1 2026.
Technology Showcase, Not Mass Market Flagship
Analysts note that the Galaxy Z TriFold is primarily a first-generation showcase of multi-folding technology, with production challenges and high costs likely keeping it a niche product. Ryu Young-ho, senior analyst at NH Investment & Securities, said the trifold could face issues with durability and completeness, and that Samsung will gauge market response before scaling production.
Foldable Market Outlook
The foldable segment remains small, accounting for less than 2% of the global smartphone market in 2025, projected to reach under 3% by 2027, according to Counterpoint Research. Samsung currently dominates the market with a 64% shipment share in Q3 2025, highlighting both its leadership and the segment’s volatility.
Competition is expected to rise as Huawei has already launched a three-way folding phone and Apple is rumored to release its first foldable device next year. Counterpoint forecasts 14% growth in the foldable smartphone market this year, followed by annual growth around 30% in 2026-27 as new entrants expand the category.
