Samsung's new Galaxy Z TriFold smartphone, priced at $2,900, sold out online in minutes upon its US debut, signaling strong demand for the innovative trifold device. Hands-on tests reveal clever design choices that prioritize durability over versatility compared to rivals like Huawei's Mate XT. The phone combines phone and tablet functionality in a pocketable form, though it lacks intermediate modes.
The Galaxy Z TriFold launched in select international markets in December and became available in the US this week, quickly exhausting initial stock on Samsung's website. Only a few team members at CNET managed to secure units, with others seeing out-of-stock messages shortly after sales began. Analyst Ben Wood of CCS Insight noted, "I'd be surprised if Samsung has massive volumes available and there are enough affluent technology enthusiasts in the US market who would love to try this latest and greatest piece of tech." He described it as "gadget-bling" in the niche foldables category, where sales are projected to grow 30% next year according to IDC.
Hands-on experiences highlight the device's unique U-shaped folding mechanism with three panels and two hinges of different sizes. The right hinge, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, springs open intuitively, while a protruding edge on the right-most panel—slightly wider than the others—makes unfolding easy, unlike flat-sided competitors. An auto-alarm with on-screen warnings and vibrations prevents incorrect folding, enhancing usability. The 10-inch inner screen folds twice with minimal creases that are barely noticeable except at extreme angles, protecting the display better than Huawei's always-exposed Z-shaped design.
Unlike the Huawei Mate XT, which offers phone, mini-tablet, and full-tablet modes via its single flexible screen, the TriFold operates only fully folded as a 6.5-inch phone or fully unfolded as a 10-inch tablet. This trade-off boosts durability but limits versatility; the inner screen stays shielded when closed. Running One UI 8 on Android 16 with Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, it supports seamless multitasking with three side-by-side apps and pop-ups, plus seven years of updates. The 5,600mAh battery and identical cameras to the Z Fold 7— including a 200-megapixel main sensor—promise solid performance, though its 309-gram weight and 12.9mm folded thickness may feel hefty.
Priced at $2,900, far above the $2,000 Z Fold 7, the TriFold appeals to those seeking a portable tablet experience, despite lacking built-in kickstand or magnetic accessory support.
