Samsung continues to push the boundaries of mobile technology, captivating enthusiasts with glimpses of futuristic devices. Among the most anticipated is the concept of a tri-folding smartphone. However, exciting new reports suggest this groundbreaking device might still be a ways off. This delay positions Samsung’s more traditional, albeit highly refined, galaxy Z Fold 7 as the much closer reality for users eager for a cutting-edge foldable experience in 2025.
Recent leaks provide fresh insights into both Samsung’s ambitious tri-fold project and the imminent arrival of the Galaxy Z Fold 7. For many potential buyers, the lengthy wait for the tri-fold could make the significantly upgraded Z Fold 7 a far more practical and appealing choice in the near term.
The Elusive Tri-Fold: A Glimpse Into the Future
Samsung first teased the idea of a tri-fold device back in January, sparking considerable excitement. This multi-folding concept goes beyond the current single-hinge designs of the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip lines. Instead, it envisions a phone that folds in two places, potentially offering a much larger screen surface when fully unfolded.
Based on animations reportedly found within Samsung’s One UI 8 software (spotted by Android Authority), the proposed design features two inward-folding hinges. When viewed from the rear, the left panel appears to house a triple camera array. The central panel seemingly incorporates the external cover display. The rightmost panel, notably, is expected to lack a display, acting as a central layer when the device is fully folded, with the camera panel folding down on top of it. This differs from alternative designs like the ‘S-shape’ fold seen on some competitor devices, which might use outward-folding sections.
Despite the intriguing design leaks, the path to market for the tri-fold appears long. According to a report from South Korean outlet The Bell, mass production isn’t slated to begin until September. This timeline suggests retail availability won’t arrive until late in 2025, specifically projected for the fourth quarter (October through December).
A Premium Price for a Limited Showcase
Further details reinforce the idea that the tri-fold, potentially dubbed the “Galaxy G Fold” according to some rumors, might initially serve more as a technological showcase than a mainstream product. The Bell’s report indicates Samsung plans only a limited production run.
Adding to its exclusivity, leaks from tipsters like Yogesh Brar point to an exceptionally high price tag. Estimates place the cost between $3,000 and $3,500. This positions the tri-fold well above even the current premium foldable market, where devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 start closer to $1,899. The complexity of a dual-hinge design and the engineering challenges involved undoubtedly contribute to this steep price. Earlier reports suggested this device might launch only in South Korea and China, a strategy Samsung has previously used for limited-run, high-end models like a special edition Z Fold. This suggests Samsung may be gauging market appetite for such an ultra-premium, multi-folding form factor before considering wider availability.
Leaked specifications for the tri-fold are scarce but include a rumored 10-inch unfolded screen and a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, aligning it with top-tier performance expected from Samsung’s flagships. While it might be briefly shown or teased at the upcoming July Unpacked event, its distant release makes it a difficult option for those needing a new device soon.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7: Samsung’s Imminent Foldable Flagship
In stark contrast to the tri-fold’s distant horizon, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is rapidly approaching. Samsung has officially confirmed a Galaxy Unpacked event for July 9, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York. This event is widely expected to be the launchpad for the next generation of its popular foldable lineup, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. Retail availability is anticipated shortly after, likely in late July or early August, following Samsung’s established pattern.
Leaks and rumors surrounding the Galaxy Z Fold 7 paint a picture of significant, practical upgrades aimed at refining the foldable experience and better competing with increasingly capable rivals from other brands.
Key anticipated enhancements for the Z Fold 7 include:
Design Refinement: Expected to be thinner and lighter than its predecessors. Leaked case dimensions hint at a chassis thickness potentially between just 3.9 to 4.5 mm unfolded.
Improved Displays: Rumors strongly suggest a wider 6.5-inch cover screen that feels more like a conventional smartphone display when folded, alongside a slightly larger 8-inch inner folding screen. Both are expected to be dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panels with a 120Hz refresh rate and high peak brightness (potentially 2600 nits). Crucially, expect a less visible inner screen crease and significantly reduced bezels on the main display (possibly down to 1mm).
Camera System: A major rumored upgrade is a 200MP main wide-angle camera, potentially shared with other premium Samsung devices. A 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3X optical zoom telephoto, and 10MP cover selfie camera are also anticipated.
Performance: Powering the device will likely be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, supported by 12GB of RAM, as indicated by a recent Geekbench listing.
Durability: Expect enhancements in dust and water resistance, building on lessons learned from previous models and special editions.
Software & Updates: The phone is likely to launch with One UI 8 based on Android 16 and is expected to receive a generous seven years of software and security updates.
S Pen Support: Continued compatibility with the S Pen is highly probable.
Regarding price, leaks from European retailers suggest the Galaxy Z Fold 7 might maintain a similar launch price point in Europe compared to the Z Fold 6, potentially around €1,999 for the base model. While US pricing isn’t confirmed to stay flat, this leak offers some hope for price stability amidst the anticipated upgrades.
Waiting vs. Upgrading: A Foldable Dilemma
The contrast between the distant, limited tri-fold and the imminent, refined Z Fold 7 presents a clear choice for users. The tri-fold represents the bleeding edge of foldable experimentation – a highly complex, expensive device likely produced in small numbers for specific markets, essentially a proof-of-concept for multi-folding designs. While fascinating, its late 2025 release and potential exclusivity make it inaccessible for most users needing a new phone sooner.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7, conversely, is positioned as Samsung’s mainstream foldable flagship for 2025. It builds upon years of refinement, addressing key areas like thickness, weight, display dimensions, and camera performance. The rumored 200MP camera, wider cover screen, and thinner design are tangible improvements that address common feedback and competitive pressures. Its launch in late July/early August makes it a realistic and powerful upgrade option for current foldable users or those looking to jump into the premium foldable market this year*.
For users weighing their options, the Z Fold 7 appears to be the practical, feature-packed choice delivering a highly polished foldable experience much sooner. The tri-fold remains an exciting promise of future form factors, but one that requires significant patience and likely a substantial investment, if it becomes available at all outside select regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the expected release timeline for the Samsung tri-fold phone?
While Samsung may tease or showcase its tri-fold concept at the July 9 Unpacked event, its actual retail launch is not expected until much later. Reports indicate mass production could begin in September, with availability potentially starting in the fourth quarter of 2025 (October-December). This timeline positions it significantly later than the anticipated release of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.
How does the likely price and availability of the tri-fold compare to the Galaxy Z Fold 7?
The Samsung tri-fold is expected to be significantly more expensive than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, with rumored prices between $3,000 and $3,500. Availability is also predicted to be very limited, possibly launching only in South Korea and China in small quantities. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, however, is anticipated to launch globally in late July/early August 2025, with potential price stability in Europe and expected extensive carrier deals, making it a much more accessible option for most consumers.
What major upgrades are rumored for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 compared to previous models?
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to bring several key improvements. Rumors point to a thinner and lighter design, a wider 6.5-inch outer cover screen, a larger 8-inch inner folding screen with a less visible crease and reduced bezels, and a significant camera upgrade potentially featuring a 200MP main sensor. It’s also anticipated to include the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, 12GB RAM, enhanced durability, and launch with One UI 8 based on Android 16, offering seven years of software updates.
Conclusion
While the Samsung tri-fold captures the imagination with its multi-folding future, its projected late 2025 launch, high price, and limited availability mean it remains a distant dream for most users. In the meantime, the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7, expected to launch in July and release shortly after, is poised to deliver a highly refined, significantly upgraded foldable experience. With anticipated improvements across design, displays, cameras, and performance, the Z Fold 7 stands out as the compelling and practical choice for anyone looking to embrace the cutting edge of Samsung’s foldable technology in 2025.
