Samsung’s biggest new phone in years may launch in the US this year

Samsung is actively considering the launch of its innovative "tri-fold" smartphone in the United States, marking a significant milestone for the tech giant and the U.S. smartphone market. This new device aims to revitalize interest in foldable technology, which has evolved from a once cutting-edge novelty to a common feature in the mobile landscape. Sources familiar with Samsung's plans revealed that while the company is evaluating various global markets for the device's rollout later this year, the U.S. is a key focus area. Traditionally, Samsung has limited its new product launches to specific regions, like South Korea or China, as seen with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 SE released last year. With Chinese competitor Huawei already offering a tri-fold phone, albeit without U.S. availability, Samsung's entry could significantly impact the market dynamics. As Samsung, Apple, and other manufacturers strive to capture consumer attention, the challenge of enticing users who tend to extend their smartphone lifespan looms large. Analysts are also pondering whether emerging AI technologies could eventually replace traditional smartphones. Apple is set to unveil its redesigned iPhone Air, the first major revamp of its flagship phone in nearly a decade, and is rumored to be working on its inaugural foldable device for 2026. Samsung's recent launch of the seventh generation of its foldable phones highlights the company's commitment to innovation. The upcoming tri-fold will represent the most significant shift in Samsung's smartphone design since the introduction of its first foldable model in 2019. Although specific details about the new device remain limited, it is anticipated to offer a larger screen by folding in two places. In a recent interview, Minseok Kang, Samsung’s global head of smartphone product planning, confirmed that the company remains on track for a launch by the end of the year. Kang noted that the existing Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series have seen a 25% increase in pre-orders compared to their predecessors, indicating a positive trajectory towards the tri-fold model. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 currently features an eight-inch display when opened, positioning it as a compact option compared to larger tablets. Although executives refrained from disclosing specific dimensions for the tri-fold, they emphasized the goal of delivering a unique user experience that deviates from merely rehashing existing designs. Samsung has showcased concepts of tri-fold devices at industry events, including the Consumer Electronics Show, featuring prototypes like the Flex G and Flex S. These models suggest a potential future where smartphones offer unprecedented flexibility and functionality. The company is betting that consumers will be willing to invest in a device that enhances their mobile experience with a more expansive screen. As the market anticipates this launch, Samsung's tri-fold phone could carve out a niche similar to its Galaxy Z Fold series, which has only recently gained significant traction. The company hopes to attract a broader audience, particularly non-Samsung users, as foldable phones currently appeal to two times as many new customers compared to standard flagship models. Looking ahead, Samsung plans to introduce a successor to the Galaxy S25 Edge next year, likely coinciding with the Galaxy S26 lineup. Although there are speculations regarding the future design direction of Samsung devices, including the potential for slimmer models and even port-less designs, company officials remain cautious about confirming these developments. Despite the challenges facing foldable phones, which currently represent a small fraction of the overall smartphone market, projections indicate that shipments could reach 45.7 million units by 2028. As the industry evolves, Samsung aims to lead the charge in redefining consumer expectations for mobile devices, moving beyond the traditional smartphone format.