Samsung may accelerate plans for a second-generation tri-fold smartphone following the launch of Apple’s iPhone Duo, according to a new report.
Citing leaker Lanzuk, 9to5Google reported that Samsung is considering an earlier-than-planned launch for a successor to its Galaxy Z TriFold, along with a separate slideable device that was previously expected to arrive in 2027.
However, the exact launch timeline remains unclear, and both devices could still be released according to their original 2027 schedule.
Galaxy Z TriFold 2 could get design upgrades
The rumoured Galaxy Z TriFold 2 is expected to be thinner, lighter and more durable than Samsung’s first tri-fold smartphone, according to the report.
Samsung is also reportedly considering keeping the price of the new model nearly the same as its predecessor.
The company’s first tri-fold phone was positioned as a premium, limited-volume device. It initially launched in South Korea at around $2,500 before reaching the US in January 2026 for roughly $2,900.
The first-generation model reportedly sold out in the US, but Samsung later removed it from its online store after only a few months.
Reports also suggested that Samsung was losing money on each unit sold, highlighting the manufacturing challenges involved in producing the device.
Apple’s foldable iPhone changes the landscape
Apple’s introduction of the iPhone Duo has added a new competitor to the premium foldable smartphone market.
The iPhone Duo’s arrival could prompt Samsung to reconsider the timing of products already in its foldable development roadmap, although there is currently no confirmation that the company has officially moved up the launch date.
If Samsung does accelerate development, the Galaxy Z TriFold 2 could arrive with improvements aimed at addressing some of the size, weight and durability challenges associated with the first model.
For now, Samsung’s reported plans remain unconfirmed, and the next-generation tri-fold and slideable devices could still follow their previously rumoured 2027 timelines.
