The future of mobile technology is here: 10-inch folding phones are on the horizon. But will the market embrace them?
Imagine a tablet that fits in your pocket as effortlessly as your smartphone. It's no longer a fantasy, thanks to the latest innovation from Samsung. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z TriFold, a 10-inch folding smartphone with a stunning inner display. This isn't the first company to attempt a tri-folding phone; Huawei made a similar device in China in 2024. However, the Galaxy Z TriFold is the first of its kind to reach the U.S. market.
Samsung hasn't yet announced an official release date for the U.S., but it's expected in the first quarter of 2026. In South Korea, where Samsung is headquartered, the device is already available. Folding phones have come a long way since their introduction nearly a decade ago. They're thinner, more versatile in form, and nearing the durability of traditional smartphones. Yet, they remain a niche product, accounting for only 1.5% of the smartphone market in 2024, according to TrendForce.
There are several reasons for their limited adoption, according to Ravinder Dahiya, a Northeastern University professor of electrical and computer engineering and a flexible electronics researcher. High cost, questionable long-term durability, and limited practical use cases are significant barriers. Dahiya notes that folding phones are more about convenience than usefulness, as they serve the same functions as an iPad.
Advancements in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display technologies have been pivotal for foldable phone manufacturers over the past decade. Phone makers have also gained a deeper understanding of material selection and manufacturing processes, as highlighted by Ruobing Bai, a Northeastern professor of mechanical and industrial engineering. They've improved adhesives and overall design architecture for increased durability.
Despite the progress, foldable phones remain more challenging to build than standard slab phones, which is why they often cost more. The complexity of manufacturing displays, ensuring durability, and scratch- and water-resistance contribute to the higher price tag. Additionally, folding phones contain more technology, including multiple high-resolution displays, which adds to the cost.
Samsung hasn't disclosed the U.S. price for the Galaxy Z TriFold, but in South Korea, it costs KRW3,590,400, approximately $2,428. In contrast, a one-screen Samsung Galaxy S25 costs just $780. Given the high entry cost, Dahiya predicts that foldable phones will continue to cater to a niche market of tech enthusiasts for the foreseeable future.
While true bendable consumer electronics that can wrap around the body have potential, they are still in the research phase. Dahiya envisions a bendable screen that can contour around the wrist, serving as a smartwatch. Unlike trifolds, which prioritize convenience, true bendability offers numerous benefits, making it easier to carry a phone when worn rather than in a pocket.
