There's no question about Samsung entertaining the idea of selling a tri-fold Galaxy phone. The tech giant has been making headlines with its innovative concepts, but whether this device will launch this year remains uncertain. However, Samsung teased the tri-fold form factor during the Unpacked event in January, showcasing a slide that highlighted several ambitious upcoming devices, including XR headsets and AR glasses.
While it is evident that Samsung is actively experimenting with the tri-fold phone concept, the specifics of a final product are still undetermined. Recent rumors, particularly from the source @PandaFlashPro, suggest significant developments regarding the battery technology powering this prototype. According to these claims, Samsung's tri-fold Galaxy phone is equipped with a silicon-carbon battery, a technology not previously commercialized by the company.
This innovative battery technology is rumored to also feature in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, expected to debut in 2026. Silicon-carbon batteries are an evolution of the traditional Li-Ion batteries, utilizing a silicon anode instead of the conventional graphite. Theoretically, this advancement results in a higher energy density, allowing the battery to store more energy relative to its size compared to standard Li-Ion batteries.
Interestingly, Samsung may leverage the benefits of silicon-carbon technology to reduce the size of the tri-fold's battery, rather than solely focusing on enhancing the device's autonomy. Reports indicate that the capacity of the silicon-carbon battery in the prototype is less than 5,000mAh, which raises questions about its performance and longevity.
Building a tri-fold phone presents several challenges, primarily concerning durability, design, and thickness. Samsung is currently focused on creating thinner devices, as evidenced by the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge. Their Z-series foldable phones have also seen a reduction in thickness, indicating a clear trend towards sleeker designs. The integration of a silicon-carbon battery could be crucial in maintaining a slim profile for the tri-fold device.
As of now, whether this cutting-edge technology will make it into the final product remains unknown. It's important to note that the discussions surrounding the tri-fold prototype are still in the rumor stage, and Samsung's plans for the device may evolve as development progresses.
In conclusion, Samsung's exploration of a tri-fold Galaxy phone represents a significant step towards innovation in the smartphone industry. With the potential use of silicon-carbon battery technology, the company is working to address the challenges of design and functionality. As rumors continue to circulate, tech enthusiasts eagerly await confirmation on whether this ambitious device will become a reality.