MANILA, September 26 — Samsung is accelerating work on a tri-folding phone while Apple prepares to enter the foldable market for the first time, setting up a contest that could reshape the devices people carry across Asia. Geeky Gadgets published a report by Roland Hutchinson on September 24 examining the foldable smartphone market, based on a video from Tcol Tech discussing the rumored Samsung handset.
The report describes the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold 2 as a tri-folding device aimed at productivity-focused users, built to address key limitations of earlier foldables with features for multitasking and productivity.
Two rivals, two timelines
Apple’s entry comes in the form of the iPhone Duo, which starts at $1,999, with advanced configurations exceeding $3,000. The device is designed to integrate with Apple’s ecosystem, including the iPad, MacBook and Apple Watch. Analysts cited in the report forecast Apple could surpass Samsung’s dominance by 2027.
Samsung’s answer is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. No specific specs, prices or official release dates for the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold 2 beyond that window are given in the source material.
The engineering is hard. The report notes significant challenges for Samsung: hinge durability under constant mechanical stress, reducing screen creases while maintaining display quality through advanced materials and precise manufacturing, and weight optimization as consumers demand lighter yet durable devices. Balancing these technical advancements with competitive pricing is described as essential, especially as production costs for premium foldables continue to rise.
Beyond the fold
Samsung is also exploring other form factors such as rollable displays to diversify its lineup. The report frames the Samsung-Apple rivalry as intensifying pressure on both companies to innovate faster, with the competition ultimately benefiting consumers through more advanced features, refined designs and improved usability. Foldable devices are described in the report as likely to transition from niche products to mainstream essentials in the coming years, offering versatility and functionality for productivity, entertainment and connectivity.
Geeky Gadgets includes a disclosure that some of its articles contain affiliate links, through which the site may earn a commission if a purchase is made. What to watch next: whether Samsung confirms the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold 2 and its pricing, and how Apple’s iPhone Duo performs when it reaches buyers.
