Samsung is reportedly preparing a second-generation tri-fold smartphone. Rumours suggest the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 could arrive in 2027 with a thinner and lighter design to address some of the limitations of the company’s first triple-folding device.

The reports come as Samsung faces fresh competition in the foldable smartphone market after Apple entered the arena with the recent release of its first foldable, the iPhone Duo. Samsung could be preparing the next TriFold sooner than previously expected, although the company has not confirmed the device or its specifications.

The original Galaxy Z TriFold featured a 10-inch internal display when fully opened, taking the conventional smartphone form and size into a tablet-sized device. It had a complex dual-hinge design that meant the screen could fold in two places, but which also led to a relatively thick 12.9mm profile when closed.

Reports surrounding the successor suggest Samsung is working on a new hinge system designed to reduce both the weight and thickness of the smartphone. Some earlier reports also suggested the company was working to develop a new-generation hinge that focused on improved durability and making the TriFold easier to carry. 

The latest rumours point towards a 2027 launch, with some reports suggesting the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 could arrive around the middle of the year.

Rumours around pricing suggest a figure of around US$2,899, which places it broadly in the same ultra-premium category as its predecessor.

At that price, the TriFold 2 would sit well above mainstream flagship smartphones and could make it one of the most expensive consumer smartphones available in Australia, if Samsung brings it here.

Samsung’s first TriFold was also a fairly limited product and sales ended after a short period in several markets. It seems, following these reports, that Samsung has not abandoned the triple-fold concept.

Samsung may also be working on another unusual form factor with other rumours indicating the company is developing a smartphone that uses a slidable OLED display. This would create a larger screen without the two hinges required by a TriFold.

The Galaxy Z TriFold 2 remains firmly in rumour territory and Samsung has not announced a release, pricing or specifications.