Samsung’s Tri-Fold Smartphone Nears Launch With Limited Initial Production Run

Samsung is preparing to make history once again in the foldable smartphone market with its first-ever tri-fold device, a phone that folds twice. According to a new report from TheElec, the company has already manufactured between 20,000 and 30,000 components for the upcoming model, a sign that the long-awaited device will indeed debut before the end of the year.

Limited Production Suggests a Controlled Rollout

Sources familiar with Samsung’s supply chain confirmed that while the production of parts has started, the initial shipment volume will be limited. Suppliers told TheElec that the company plans to launch a small batch first, then gauge consumer interest before ramping up production.

One supplier noted that it remains unclear whether Samsung will place additional orders for more components, underscoring the company’s cautious approach to this new form factor. Another industry insider added that Samsung will analyze early market feedback before committing to mass production in 2026.

The Tri-Fold Makes Its First Public Appearance

Samsung first showcased its tri-fold smartphone prototype last week during the APEC Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea. The device folds twice, a major leap from the company’s current Galaxy Z Fold lineup, offering a tablet-sized display that can be compactly folded into a more portable form.

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Earlier this year, in July, Samsung reportedly informed its suppliers of plans to produce around 10,000 units in September, but as of November, that target has not yet been met. The company has not provided further updates on its revised production schedule, though suppliers expect new details by December at the latest.

Launch Still Expected Before Year-End

Despite the delays, Samsung reaffirmed during its Q3 2025 earnings call that the tri-fold smartphone is still set to launch within the year. The company is said to be fine-tuning both the design and the software experience to ensure durability and usability, as the dual-hinge mechanism introduces new engineering challenges.

A New Chapter in Foldable Innovation

Samsung has dominated the global foldable smartphone market for years with its Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series. The tri-fold device marks the next stage in that evolution, potentially setting a new standard for multitasking and productivity in mobile design.

Analysts believe the limited initial release is part of Samsung’s strategy to test consumer response before committing to large-scale manufacturing. This mirrors the approach the company took with its first Galaxy Fold in 2019, which was also launched in small volumes before becoming a mainstream success.

If successful, the tri-fold could usher in a new category of ultra-flexible mobile devices, blending the convenience of a phone with the versatility of a tablet and strengthening Samsung’s position as the global leader in foldable innovation.