Samsung is gearing up for the next big leap in foldable phones. According to ZDNet Korea, the company is working on a “Tri-Foldable Phone,” which could be released as soon as next year. The new device is said to have a display that folds at two points, marking a new step for the brand in the foldable market.
Tri-Fold Design Similar to Huawei’s Mate XT
The design of Samsung’s new phone seems to take cues from Huawei’s Mate XT, a phone with a large screen and two folding hinges. While Huawei has already made strides with its foldable Mate XT, Samsung has been showcasing prototype designs with foldable OLED screens for several years. However, Samsung’s current lineup only features foldable devices with a single folding point, like the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip.
Samsung has been keen to expand its foldable range, and the launch of a tri-foldable phone would allow the company to further tap into the growing demand for flexible screens. By adding two folding points, the screen could offer even more versatility and a larger display when fully opened.
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Hardware Already in Place
According to insiders, the hardware for Samsung’s tri-fold design is already complete. The teams responsible for building the foldable screens have been working on the required components for some time. Samsung’s suppliers have also been involved in the process. This will ensure that all the parts needed for the phone’s design are ready.
Despite this progress, the final decision to launch the tri-foldable phone lies with Samsung’s Mobile Experience Division (MX). The company’s management must decide if the time is right to compete with Huawei in the dual-hinge foldable space.
One of the main concerns holding back the release of Samsung’s tri-fold phone is its cost. Huawei’s Mate XT, with its large 10.2-inch screen, is priced at around 3000 euros in China. A Samsung device with similar features would likely be in the same price range, raising questions about its market appeal. High prices could limit the potential customer base for such a product. This may make Samsung hesitate to proceed with the launch.
While Samsung works on its tri-fold model, the company is also exploring more affordable options for its foldable lineup. Reports suggest that a cheaper version of the Galaxy Z Flip may also be in the works. Whether Samsung’s tri-fold phone will become a reality remains to be seen. However, the company is looking to push the boundaries of foldable tech.