Samsung revives foldable dreams: trifold 2 on the horizon
Samsung’s decision to revisit the Galaxy Z TriFold after shelving the original is a surprisingly welcome development, signaling a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of foldable Technology. But the path forward isn’t paved with simple optimism.
A thinner profile, a larger challenge
Rumors are swirling that a redesigned TriFold 2 is in development, prioritizing a significantly slimmer profile – aiming to drastically reduce the device's notoriously bulky folded dimensions. Leaker Lanzuk suggests a new hinge system is key, potentially extending beyond the TriFold to other foldable lines like the Z Fold and Z Flip series. The current TriFold, measuring a hefty 12.9mm thick when closed, lags considerably behind the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (8.9mm) and even the flagship S26 Ultra (7.9mm).
Samsung’s ambitions extend beyond mere aesthetics; the goal is a truly lightweight and ultra-slim design. This hinges – quite literally – on the success of the new hinge Technology.
High price, uncertain demand
While a lighter, more compact TriFold 2 would undoubtedly boost its appeal, the device currently carries a steep $2,900 price tag. Production of the initial TriFold was limited to just 100,000 to 200,000 units, raising questions about the true extent of consumer interest. Despite its premium cost, the device vanished from shelves within minutes of restocking – a clear indication of significant demand, but also a sobering reminder of the potential hurdles to mass market adoption.
It’s a delicate balance: Samsung needs to deliver a device that justifies the exorbitant price while simultaneously addressing fundamental issues like durability and software optimization. Only three documented malfunctions have surfaced, a concerning number for a device with such intricate mechanics.
Furthermore, developers are still searching for compelling use cases beyond basic multitasking. The TriFold’s complex design, while visually striking, introduces a greater risk of failure. The S26 Ultra’s sleek minimalism offers a stark contrast, highlighting the inherent trade-offs of Samsung’s ambitious approach.
Beyond the specs
Ultimately, Samsung must invest not just in hardware, but in a refined software experience that truly leverages the TriFold's unique form factor. A thinner device won’t suffice; the device needs to offer tangible benefits that justify its premium price point – be it enhanced multi-tasking capabilities, desktop-like features, or even stylus support.
The redesigned TriFold 2 is slated for release in mid-2027, a lengthy wait that will demand considerable innovation from Samsung. It remains to be seen if the company can successfully navigate these challenges and finally unlock the full potential of its foldable ambitions.