Samsung working on Huawei Mate XT-like triple folding smartphone, likely to call it Galaxy G Fold

Samsung is reportedly working on a bold new addition to its foldable lineup — a triple-folding smartphone dubbed the Galaxy G Fold. According to reports from South Korea, this upcoming device will feature a unique folding mechanism that could set it apart from Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate Edition, the first commercially available tri-fold phone.

Alongside this new experiment, Samsung is also preparing its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, which are expected to launch in mid-July. However, the Galaxy G Fold is shaping up to be a completely different beast, with a G-style folding design and a separate external display.

A new take on triple-folding screens

Unlike Huawei’s S-style design, where the screen folds in a zigzag pattern, Samsung’s G-style approach would fold all three display sections inward, keeping them protected when the phone is closed. Because of this, the device would require a dedicated outer display, which could be the same 6.49-inch screen that Samsung is reportedly using for the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

When fully unfolded, the Galaxy G Fold is expected to feature a 9.96-inch inner screen, making it one of the largest foldables in Samsung’s lineup. This design choice would enhance durability while offering a tablet-like experience when opened.

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Production plans

Samsung, reportedly will start acquiring components for the Galaxy G Fold in April, suggesting that the device could launch alongside the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. However, the company is taking a cautious approach. The report indicates that only 200,000 units will be produced initially, likely as a test to gauge consumer interest before committing to a broader release.

This wouldn’t be the first time Samsung limited a foldable’s availability. The Galaxy Z Fold SE, another experimental model, was released only in South Korea and China, and there’s a possibility that the Galaxy G Fold might follow a similar strategy.

Samsung’s answer to Huawei’s innovative form factor

Huawei has already made waves with the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, proving that a triple-folding smartphone can work in the real world. While Samsung has showcased tri-folding prototypes in the past, the company has yet to bring one to market. If the Galaxy G Fold does materialise, it could be Samsung’s attempt to regain an edge in the ultra-premium foldable space.

With the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 expected in a few months and now a G Fold potentially in the mix, Samsung is clearly betting big on foldables in 2024. Whether this new form factor becomes a mainstream hit or remains a niche experiment remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain — Samsung isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of smartphone design.