Excitement is building as Samsung prepares to reveal its inaugural tri-fold smartphone at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit this week. Although an official announcement is still awaited, new information suggests that the device, expected to be called the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, might have a restricted global release, targeting only a few chosen markets. This eagerly anticipated triple-screen handset is rumored to showcase an innovative G-style inward-folding design, unfolding into an expansive 9.96-inch display. Samsung first teased this revolutionary tri-fold concept back in January 2025 during its Galaxy Unpacked event.
According to industry insiders, Samsung plans to unveil its first tri-fold smartphone this week at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province. Sources indicate that the device is already on its way to mass production, with a commercial release slated for later this year.
The APEC summit is set to run from October 28 to 31, but the precise date for the Galaxy Z TriFold’s unveiling by Samsung remains unconfirmed within the report. Previous insider information had also pointed towards a similar launch timeframe.
Limited Release: Will the Galaxy Z TriFold Bypass Western Markets?
Adding to the speculation, renowned leaker Evan Blass (known as @evleaks) shared insights on X, indicating that Samsung’s forthcoming tri-fold device might only see a release in a handful of markets. These reportedly include Korea, China, Singapore, Taiwan, and potentially the UAE. This suggests that the innovative foldable might entirely bypass major Western markets, including the US. Evan Blass expressed this sentiment on October 26, 2025, stating his belief that a release beyond these select regions is unlikely, though he hoped to be wrong.
The introduction of this tri-fold device is anticipated to be a pivotal moment for Samsung’s expansion in foldable technology. Considering its experimental design and a likely premium price tag, a phased launch could be a strategic move for Samsung. Should the device perform strongly in its initial markets, a wider release or the development of a second-generation model would likely follow.
Earlier reports indicated that Samsung aims for a limited production run of approximately 50,000 units for the Galaxy Z TriFold. This new device is set to join other tri-fold smartphones, including models like the Huawei Mate XT and concept devices such as the Tecno Phantom Ultimate G Fold. The concept itself was first unveiled during Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event in January.
Regarding its specifications, the Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to boast a durable titanium frame. Powering the device will likely be a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, paired with a generous 16GB of RAM. When fully unfolded, the screen is rumored to measure an impressive 9.96 inches, shrinking to a more compact 6.54 inches when folded. Additionally, the device is anticipated to incorporate a silicon-carbon battery and a sophisticated triple-camera system on the back. This setup is expected to include a massive 200-megapixel primary sensor with an astounding 100x zoom capability. Software-wise, it is projected to launch with Android 16, topped with Samsung’s custom One UI 8 interface.