Samsung unveiled its first triple-folding smartphone on Tuesday, a premium special-edition device priced at US$2,443, more than double the cost of the new iPhone 17, putting it far beyond the reach of most consumers.
The Galaxy Z TriFold, set to go on sale on December 12, unfolds to a 25.4cm display, offering expanded possibilities for productivity and creative work, according to Samsung. While the triple-fold design is eye-catching, it is not a global first, as China’s Huawei released a similar device last year.
The phone weighs 309 grams, measures less than 0.2 inches at its thinnest point, and is available only in black. It also integrates generative artificial intelligence features, enabling real-time assistance via screen or camera sharing.
Samsung executives stressed that the Galaxy Z TriFold is a “special edition” product and not intended for mass-market sales. The launch comes amid signs that Apple may soon overtake Samsung as the world’s leading smartphone maker, a position it has not held in 14 years.
Industry research from Counterpoint predicts that Apple’s global smartphone market share will reach 19.4% in 2025, compared with Samsung’s 18.7%. Apple is also rumored to be developing a foldable iPhone, possibly for release as early as next year.
