Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: A New Era for Foldable Devices
Samsung introduced its Galaxy Z TriFold, a dual-hinge foldable smartphone featuring a triple-folding display, at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. This innovative device is designed as a phone-tablet hybrid, offering a significantly larger screen area for enhanced productivity in a highly portable format. Following an initial release in select global markets, the Galaxy Z TriFold later launched in the United States, selling out rapidly after its debut.
Device Overview and Design
The Galaxy Z TriFold incorporates two hinges, allowing its three panels to fold inward into a distinct 'Z' shape. When completely unfolded, the device presents an expansive 10-inch (25.4 cm) screen, offering a much larger display than single-fold models like the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
The device maintains a remarkably slender profile, measuring 3.9mm at its thinnest point and 4.2mm at its thickest, excluding the camera bump. When folded, the device has a thickness of 12.9mm and a weight of 309g. It has been noted that the rear surface is susceptible to fingerprints, and when folded on a flat surface, the device may exhibit some instability.
A 6.5-inch external cover screen provides functionality comparable to a standard smartphone display, featuring a peak brightness of 2,600 nits for excellent outdoor visibility. On the internal display, two visible creases are present where the panels fold. The advanced hinge system includes haptic sensors that deliver feedback and alerts if the panels are not closed in the correct sequence, specifically requiring the left panel to be positioned first to accommodate the camera bump.
Specifications and Features
The Galaxy Z TriFold is powered by a customized Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, consistent with the Galaxy S25 series. It supports robust multi-app capabilities, allowing applications to run in split-screen configurations or as resizable windows, effectively mimicking a desktop interface. Samsung's DeX feature is integrated, functioning as a standalone desktop environment, with its utility significantly enhanced by the larger screen space. The device also includes integration with Google's Gemini assistant for advanced multi-application interaction.
Digital perks bundled with purchases have included discounted software and trials, such as Adobe Lightroom, LumaFusion, and Google Gemini Advanced.
Camera specifications for the device include:
- A triple rear camera system:
- 200-megapixel main sensor
- 12-megapixel ultrawide lens
- 10-megapixel telephoto lens
- Two 10-megapixel selfie cameras
The device features a substantial 5,600-mAh battery, supporting 45-watt super-fast charging, with a charging cable and brick expected to be included in the packaging. Storage options for the device begin at 512GB, and it is available in a refined crafted black color.
Durability and Market Performance
Samsung reported that the Galaxy Z TriFold's titanium dual hinges withstood 200,000 folds during internal testing. However, some independent reviews have indicated device failure after 144,000 folds. For context, opening the device 25 times daily for five years totals approximately 45,625 folds.
The device received significant industry recognition, being honored in the 'Best Mobile Tech' category at the Official Best of CES 2026 Awards and designated 'Best of CES' by CNET Group.
The Galaxy Z TriFold initially became available in markets including South Korea, Singapore, the UAE, China, and Taiwan. An early trial program in select Samsung Experience Stores across four US states (California, Minnesota, New York, Texas) commenced on January 23, allowing customers to interact with the device and its Galaxy AI features. The official US launch occurred on January 30, with a reported starting price of $2,899 or approximately $2,900.
The device reportedly sold out within minutes on Samsung's website following its US release, indicating strong consumer interest despite its premium price point.
Samsung has not disclosed the number of units made available or total sales figures, and information regarding future restocking remains without a specific timeframe. Notably, the launch did not include official trade-in options for the device.