Samsung is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of display innovation, and at CES 2025, the tech giant brought its A-game with not one but two tri-fold phone concepts. These prototypes, teased by Samsung Display, hint at the future of foldable devices, and while both are undeniably cutting-edge, one design clearly stands out as the better option.
Captured by CNET (via Notebookcheck), the two designs share a common goal: three screen sections connected by two hinges. But they take very different approaches to the tri-fold concept. The first design leaves part of the main screen visible when folded, reminiscent of Huawei’s Mate X2 tri-fold approach. By folding in opposite directions, this configuration keeps part of the display accessible for quick interactions.
In contrast, the second design opts for an inward-folding mechanism, keeping the main display fully protected when closed and using a separate external screen for quick access. This approach mirrors the durability-first philosophy of devices like Samsung’s existing Z Fold lineup.
Which Tri-Fold is the Future?
While both concepts are compelling, the inward-folding design feels like the more practical and premium choice. Foldable displays are notoriously delicate, and a fully enclosed design offers better protection for the main screen while delivering a seamless experience with an external display for notifications and light use.
Samsung appears to be exploring both possibilities, as recent patents and industry reports hint at outward-folding (Z-style) and inward-folding (U-style) form factors. It’s possible we’ll see both designs enter production, but for now, Samsung remains tight-lipped about specific product plans.
When Can We Expect a Tri-Fold Galaxy Phone?
Samsung hasn’t officially announced a tri-fold phone, but the presence of working prototypes at CES suggests the company is closer than ever to bringing these devices to market. Leaks point to a potential launch before the end of 2025, putting Samsung in direct competition with Huawei, whose Mate XT tri-fold already retails for a jaw-dropping 19,999 yuan (~$2,730).
Beyond Phones: Samsung’s Vision for Flexible Displays
Samsung didn’t stop at tri-fold concepts. The company showcased a range of futuristic displays under its Samsung Display banner, including:
- Slidable Flex Duet: A tablet-like device with a screen that extends from both sides, growing from 8.1 inches to 12.4 inches.
- Slidable Flex Vertical: A phone-sized display that extends vertically, from 5.1 inches to 6.7 inches, offering a compact-yet-expansive design.
- Rollable OLED for Laptops: Featured on Lenovo’s ThinkPad Plus G6, this screen expands vertically from 14 inches to 16.7 inches, changing its aspect ratio for multitasking.
Samsung also teased its Stretchable MicroLED technology, a dynamic display concept that physically moves content toward the user—an exciting glimpse of sci-fi tech becoming reality.
The Foldable Road Ahead
CES 2025 demonstrated that Samsung is serious about reshaping the way we interact with screens. Whether through tri-fold phones, slidable tablets, or stretchable displays, the company is ensuring that the next wave of gadgets will be as innovative as they are functional.
Now, the question is: which of these concepts will make it into your pocket first? For our money, the inward-folding tri-fold is the one to watch. Samsung, let’s make it happen.
via notebookcheck/cnet
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