Seoul : Samsung Electronics has introduced its first tri fold smartphone and entered a new phase in the global smartphone market where unique foldable designs are gaining increasing attention. The new device called the Galaxy Z Trifold unfolds through two hinges to reveal a display that expands to around 10 inches. This makes it significantly larger than the earlier Samsung Galaxy Z Fold models and much closer to the size of a small tablet.
Samsung confirmed that the phone will go on sale first in South Korea starting December 12. Other regions including China Singapore Taiwan and the United Arab Emirates are expected to receive the model within the coming weeks.
Availability in the United States and Europe is planned for early 2026. The phone is priced at around 3.59 million Korean won which is roughly 2440 US dollars placing it among the most expensive smartphones currently available.
The device features a 6.5 inch cover screen when folded and a large Dynamic AMOLED screen when open. Reports say the phone has a high end processor a large battery and multiple cameras including a 200 megapixel main lens. The frame uses aluminum and titanium parts and the phone carries a partial water resistance rating. Analysts and reviewers have also noted its weight which is about 309 grams making it heavier than most standard smartphones.
Samsung said the Trifold is not meant to be a mass market product. Instead it is aimed at early adopters and technology focused consumers who want a powerful device that can replace both a tablet and a smartphone. The company views this as a showcase product at a time when competition in foldable technology is increasing.
Chinese brands such as Huawei are already offering multi fold designs and there is growing speculation that Apple may soon enter the foldable market.
Market analysts believe Samsung remains a leader in foldable phone technology. Its market share in the foldable segment rose to around 64 percent in the third quarter of this year from just nine percent earlier. However the overall foldable smartphone market remains small and currently makes up less than two percent of global smartphone sales.
Experts say the success of the Galaxy Z Trifold will depend on durability software support and real world usability. Many will also watch how the hinges perform over long term use and whether the high price limits adoption.
For now Samsung is positioning the device as a preview of where smartphone technology could go next rather than a mainstream replacement for current smartphones.