Ever since Huawei launched the Mate XT Ultimate Edition – the world’s first tri-fold phone, rumour had it that Samsung was also working on a similar device. Recently, Samsung rolled out a One UI 8 beta build, which features new animations that suggested that a tri-fold phone was indeed in development.
Now, Samsung Electronics’ Device Experience Division head Roh Tae-moon has confirmed that the company is indeed working to launch a tri-fold phone by the end of the year. “We are working hard on a tri-fold smartphone with the goal of launching it at the end of this year. We are now focusing on perfecting the product and its usability, but we have not decided its name. As the product nears completion, we are planning to make a final decision soon”, said Roh in a press conference.
In a statement to Android Authority, a Samsung executive said they had decided on the tri-fold design, but the company was debating whether the market had demand for the new form factor. The recently leaked animation from the One UI 8 beta build hints that, unlike the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Edition, Samsung’s tri-fold phone, which may bear the Galaxy G Fold moniker, may have hinges that fold inwards instead of outwards.
It also suggests that Samsung’s tri-fold phone will have two hinges of different sizes, with the left side folding inwards and the right side sandwiching on the top. And like the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Edition, Samsung might warn users that they are not to fold the right panel side as the protruding camera island may prevent the phone from folding flat and damage it.
This means that it will be similar to the G-shaped prototype, which the company showcased earlier this year at the Mobile World Congress. And while not much is known about Samsung’s tri-fold phone, it will likely feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset and cross the $3,000 price mark. Rumour also has it that the phone will have a screen size of between 9 and 10 inches when unfolded, which might make it more appealing for power users who want a tablet-like device in their pocket.
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