Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold phone is different from any phone I’ve ever seen – that’s a good thing

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ZDNET Highlights

• Samsung has unveiled its next foldable Galaxy Z Trifold.
• The device has a center outer screen that folds into a 10-inch canvas.
• The phone is expected to launch in Q1 2026.

After years of leaks and rumors, Samsung has unveiled its first tri-foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Trifold. As expected, it’s a handheld device that expands into a tablet, with a 10-inch flexible display that’s almost as big as Samsung’s Galaxy Tabs – except the Tab S11 Ultra; That thing is basically a laptop.

The Galaxy Z Trifold represents the company’s most ambitious phone launch to date, with Samsung confirming that the upcoming device will feature a “flagship-level 200MP camera system”, be 3.9mm thick when unfolded, and be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. None of these features are impressive in themselves, but they are commendable for what is considered a first-generation product.

Also: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: We compared the two, and here’s the winner

Unlike other tri-foldable phones we’ve seen, including various concept tools As Samsung has showcased at trade shows over the past few years, the Galaxy Z Trifold features a single display in the center and two inward-folding edges that reveal a larger 10-inch screen on the back. This is compared to the existing Z-shaped, accordion-like fold.

This design keeps the internal display hidden when not in use, reducing the risk of accidental scratches and damage.

The other durability stats are equally interesting – namely, the titanium hinge housing and armored aluminum frame. Both aspects will be important in keeping the Galaxy Z Trifold safe enough to survive daily wear and tear, whether it’s slipping into a jean pocket full of lint or falling off that coffee table that never gets opened. No Slippery.

Also: I showed off this rare tri-foldable phone at MWC — it gave me a glimpse of Samsung’s next big thing

The selection of materials here is in line with what Samsung has offered with its $1,999 Galaxy Z Fold 7 and $1,099 Galaxy S25 Edge, and that’s a promising start.

Samsung also claims that the Galaxy Z Trifold will have the company’s largest battery ever in a folding form factor. You’ll have to take this with a grain of salt, as the current record is a mere 4,400mAh.

Since this is a 10-inch screen we’re talking about, expect Samsung to pack something larger this time around. Huawei managed to fit a 5,600mAh capacity into its tri-foldable phone released earlier this year. Can Samsung (and will) do better?

Also: I tested Huawei’s $3,600 tri-foldable phone — now I’m wondering why Samsung hasn’t made it yet

We’ll have to wait and see, as the company has announced that the Galaxy Z Trifold will launch in the US in the first quarter of 2026. We may also see something at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in early January or at its next Unpacked event soon after.

It is certain that the Galaxy Z Trifold is set to redefine what a foldable phone is, forcing the entire industry to rethink its strategy for the next generation of mobile devices. The stage is set for a big reveal, and only time will tell whether Samsung is ready to deliver its next big thing – and whether consumers are ready to spend on it.