Samsung is preparing to enter a new frontier in mobile design with its first tri-fold smartphone, reportedly under the model number SM-F9680.
This device is now expected to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7 at an upcoming Unpacked event likely set for mid or end 2025.
Unlike Samsung’s existing foldables, which feature a single hinge, this tri-fold device uses two hinge points to create a much larger display surface.
When fully unfolded, the screen could measure up to 9.9 or 10 inches, offering a tablet-like experience. This puts it just behind Huawei’s Mate XT, which comes in at 10.2 inches.
Rumours and teaser visuals suggest the tri-fold concept is well past the drawing board stage. The device has already appeared in China’s product certification databases, adding to speculation that it is nearly ready for commercial release.
The Samsung tri-fold will reportedly support 5G and include a 25W wired charger in the box.
While that charging speed may seem slow compared to rivals like Xiaomi and Oppo, who offer more than 90W charging, Samsung is likely opting for safety and battery longevity over sheer speed.
This conservative move may not impress users who prioritise fast charging, but it reinforces Samsung’s emphasis on reliability, especially given its past battery-related issues.
Production volumes for the tri-fold are expected to be limited, with initial units capped at around 200,000. This signals that the phone is being positioned as a high-end, niche product aimed at early adopters and tech enthusiasts.
Pricing is expected to exceed $2,000, placing it squarely in the ultra-premium segment. Huawei’s tri-fold, for instance, launched at approximately $2,800, so Samsung’s pricing could follow a similar path.
Market rollout is likely to begin in regions such as China and South Korea before expanding globally. The tri-fold device may also be accompanied by other foldables at Samsung’s Unpacked event, including the Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and a new Flip7 FE model.
