Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z TriFold, Bringing First Mass-Market Triple-Folding Phone to U.S. in Q1 2026

SEOUL – Samsung Electronics has officially unveiled the Galaxy Z TriFold, a groundbreaking smartphone designed to fold not once, but twice, marking a significant advancement in the foldable phone market. The device is slated for release in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2026, following its initial launch in South Korea and other international markets in December 2025. This move positions Samsung at the forefront of multi-folding technology, aiming to capture a new segment of the premium smartphone market.

The Wall Street Journal highlighted the device's unique capability, stating in a recent tweet, "> The U.S. will soon get its first mass-market smartphone that folds not just once, but twice with the Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy Z TriFold." When fully unfolded, the Galaxy Z TriFold boasts an immersive 10-inch display, comparable to a small tablet, offering enhanced productivity and cinematic viewing experiences. The innovative design allows the device to fold down to a compact size, fitting into a pocket, while featuring a separate 6.5-inch cover screen.

Samsung's co-CEO, TM Roh, emphasized the strategic importance of the new device. "Through years of innovation in foldable form factors, Galaxy Z TriFold solves one of the mobile industry’s longest-standing challenges — delivering the perfect balance between portability, premium performance and productivity all in one device," Roh stated. The device is powered by a customized Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy, includes a 200 MP camera, and features the largest battery ever in a Samsung foldable phone, a 5,600 mAh three-cell system.

The introduction of the Galaxy Z TriFold intensifies competition within the burgeoning foldable smartphone sector. While Huawei previously launched a tri-folding phone primarily in China, Samsung's offering is positioned as the first mass-market global release of its kind. Analysts from Counterpoint Research indicate that foldable phones, though still niche, are projected to grow, with their market share potentially rising from 2% to 6% by 2027, especially with Apple's anticipated entry into the segment.

Despite its innovative features, the Galaxy Z TriFold carries a premium price tag, starting at approximately $2,445 in South Korea. This cost, coupled with potential durability concerns for its dual-hinge mechanism, may limit its initial appeal to a broader consumer base. However, Samsung is offering a one-time 50 percent discount on display repair costs for purchasers, alongside a six-month trial of Google AI Pro, signaling a commitment to supporting early adopters of this advanced technology.