Samsung Electronics has offered a sneak peek at what could become the next big leap in smartphone innovation, a trifold smartphone that unfolds twice to reveal a tablet-sized display.
The prototype was quietly demonstrated to a select group of journalists in Seoul, marking the company’s most advanced exploration yet into multi-folding mobile technology.
A Device That Unfolds Twice
Unlike Samsung’s current foldable lineup, which includes the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series, this new concept device features two hinges, allowing it to open in three connected panels. When fully unfolded, the screen expands to roughly 7 to 8 inches, effectively transforming a compact smartphone into a portable tablet.
Attendees described the design as sleek and futuristic, though clearly still in the prototype stage.
Tackling the Technical Challenges
Lee Min-woo, Head of Samsung’s MX Project Team, confirmed that while the company has made substantial progress, several engineering and software challenges remain before the device is ready for mass production.
Among the hurdles are optimizing user interface transitions, enhancing hinge durability, and reducing both the thickness and weight of the overall device.
“We want this to feel natural – like holding a phone and a tablet in one seamless experience,” Lee explained. “The key is getting the design to be durable, lightweight, and intuitive.”
No Release Date Yet, But Development Is Active
Although Samsung has not announced a commercial launch date, one company executive hinted that the trifold model could move closer to production once these issues are resolved.
Industry analysts believe that this prototype showcases Samsung’s ongoing commitment to pioneering new form factors, even as traditional foldables become more mainstream.
Beyond Foldables: The Next Evolution
Since the debut of the original Galaxy Fold in 2019, Samsung has consistently led the market in flexible-display technology. The trifold concept represents the company’s next step – pushing beyond dual-folding designs to explore devices that can serve as both a smartphone, tablet, and mini-laptop depending on configuration.
If commercialized, the trifold smartphone could redefine mobile multitasking, offering users the ability to run multiple apps across separate panels and dynamically resize screens for productivity or entertainment. While still a work in progress, Samsung’s latest prototype hints at a future where one device could seamlessly replace several – a pocket-sized powerhouse designed for the next era of mobile computing.
