Reports Suggest Samsung to Launch Tri-Folding Phone Next Year, Supply Chain Begins Bidding for Components

Following the launch of tri-folding phones by domestic manufacturers, Samsung has accelerated its development in this category.

According to reports, Samsung's development of a tri-folding phone is progressing smoothly with minimal challenges, making a potential 2025 release likely.

In fact, Samsung began researching tri-folding phones years ago. However, with domestic brands unveiling their tri-folding models, Samsung has expedited its project development.

Sources reveal that Samsung Electronics recently added a foldable phone to its development lineup, aiming to complete its design and prototype production by the end of this month. When fully unfolded, the device is expected to have a diagonal length of approximately 10 inches. Meanwhile, several of Samsung's industry partners have already started bidding to supply components for this tri-folding phone.

It is reported that Samsung's tri-folding phone will feature a design that folds inward twice, unlike the domestic models that fold inward once and outward once. Analysts believe this design could pose certain challenges, such as potentially requiring an external display to allow functionality without unfolding the device. Additionally, users might only be able to operate either a single screen or all three screens simultaneously, with no dual-screen option.

Media reports also predict that Samsung could unveil the tri-folding phone alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 at next year’s launch event. The device will reportedly incorporate Samsung Display's "Flex S" technology, enabling the panel to fold inward and outward twice.

Currently, Samsung’s MX division has yet to finalize the release timeline, which may depend on the shipment performance of the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6. Industry sources indicate that Samsung’s OLED panel shipment forecast for foldable phones in 2024 is set at 12 million units, marking a 10% decrease compared to last year. Initially, Samsung Display aimed to exceed 20 million units in shipments, but this target has since been revised downward to 12 million units.