Samsung’s new phone looks straight out of science fiction. I got to try it

For years, science fiction has envisioned advanced devices with adaptable screens that morph to fit various needs. Now, Samsung is taking a leap toward that vision with its latest creation, the Galaxy Z TriFold. This innovative smartphone, which can fold at two points much like a brochure, aims to fit a tablet-sized display into your pocket. Unveiled at the CES tech conference in Las Vegas, the Galaxy Z TriFold is set to launch in the U.S. after a limited release in South Korea. While the concept is exciting, it does come with certain trade-offs. The device is sleek when unfolded, resembling a tablet, but becomes somewhat cumbersome when folded into phone mode. Although pricing has yet to be disclosed, the previous Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts at around $2,000, suggesting that the TriFold may also carry a hefty price tag. Despite the potential cost, the significance of this device extends beyond its price. As the largest smartphone manufacturer globally, Samsung is determined to show that traditional smartphone designs still have room for innovation. Liz Lee, associate director at Counterpoint Research, noted that the TriFold may serve as a test to gauge consumer responses to emerging technologies. The Galaxy Z TriFold features a 10-inch display that folds in a unique manner, distinct from the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s 8-inch screen. Designed with productivity in mind, this phone can run apps in split-screen mode and mimic a desktop environment, allowing for window resizing and easy navigation. The addition of Bluetooth keyboard and mouse compatibility positions it as a compact alternative to laptops. Moreover, Samsung has integrated its Google Gemini assistant, which can help manage multiple applications simultaneously, streamlining user experience. However, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations, as the device, while slim when open, feels bulky when closed, akin to holding two phones stacked together. In terms of camera technology, Samsung has made significant improvements. The TriFold's cameras mirror those found in the high-end Galaxy S25 Ultra models, ensuring that users won't have to compromise on photo quality despite the larger screen. While the visible creases on the display may be noticeable, they are not overly distracting. However, Samsung has yet to convincingly demonstrate why consumers should opt for a larger screen. While multitasking and enhanced viewing experiences are attractive, these features are already available on the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The foldable smartphone market has faced challenges, with foldable devices accounting for only a small portion of total smartphone sales. As the foldable trend persists, nearly every major Android manufacturer is now offering similar products, and Apple is anticipated to join the fray soon. Samsung's strategy appears focused on exploring various smartphone designs to determine what resonates with users. Drew Blackard, senior VP of mobile product management at Samsung Electronics America, emphasized the importance of getting this technology into consumers' hands to better understand the appeal of different form factors. The evolution of smartphones is poised to continue, and the Galaxy Z TriFold is a significant step in that direction.