Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch a tri-fold smartphone as early as next year, responding to increasing competition in the foldable market. The pressure comes especially from Huawei, which recently unveiled its Mate XT Ultimate Edition in China, priced at CNY 19,999 (approximately Rs. 2,37,000). This high-end device has set a significant benchmark, pushing Samsung to rethink its approach and innovate to keep its edge.
Beyond Huawei, other brands like Xiaomi, Honor, and Oppo are also rumored to be working on tri-fold devices. Their goal is to offer smartphones that can expand into larger screens, providing users with more versatile options. As a major player in the foldable space, Samsung understands that staying ahead requires constant innovation.
Samsung has finally officially unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition.
– Outer display is now 6.5″ vs 6.3″ on the Fold 6.
– Inner display is 8″ over vs 7.6″ on the Fold 6.
– 1.5mm thinner & 3g lighter than the Fold 6.
– 16GB of RAMPrice around $2000. pic.twitter.com/Lf6c2q606J— sakitech (@sakitechonline) October 21, 2024
According to a recent report, Samsung is developing both an entry-level clamshell foldable and a more ambitious tri-fold model that folds in two places. While the necessary components are reportedly ready thanks to Samsung Display’s partners, the final call on launching these devices rests with Samsung Electronics’ MX division. This careful planning shows how seriously Samsung is taking both innovation and market timing.
However, the excitement around foldable phones hasn’t translated into strong sales. Reports indicate that orders for OLED displays used in these devices have dropped by 10% compared to last year. Demand for the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, released earlier this year, has been lukewarm, prompting Samsung to scale back production of these displays. This situation highlights the challenges the company faces in this rapidly evolving market.
Interestingly, rumors about Samsung’s interest in tri-fold technology have been circulating for some time. Back in March 2023, there were speculations that Samsung might skip launching the Galaxy S23 FE in favor of a triple-folding smartphone. Although the Galaxy S23 FE did launch in October 2023, the ongoing chatter suggests that Samsung has been diligently exploring tri-fold designs.
Samsung has already shown prototypes like the Flex G and Flex S, which feature innovative folding mechanisms similar to Huawei’s offerings. While these prototypes are not yet available for consumers, they demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone design.
If Samsung successfully rolls out a tri-fold phone, it could significantly reshape what consumers expect from foldable devices, offering a smartphone that can double as a tablet. Yet, with competitors like Huawei making strides in this area, Samsung will need to bring unique features and enhancements to the table to stay competitive. The next few years will be crucial as Samsung navigates the demands of consumers and the challenges of innovation in the foldable smartphone market.
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