Samsung’s Tri-Fold Phone Referenced in One UI 8
Just the facts
Technology

Samsung’s Tri-Fold Phone Referenced in One UI 8

Summary

Animation files in One UI 8 show a possible design for Samsung's first tri-fold device, which may be called the Galaxy G Fold.

Overview

  • Animation files from the latest One UI 8 build provide a preview of Samsung’s tri-fold foldable device.
  • The device features two inward-folding hinges, described as a G-shaped fold, which differs from the S-shaped fold used in devices like the HUAWEI Mate XT.
  • This tri-fold foldable is rumored to be named the Samsung Galaxy G Fold and may be introduced at the upcoming Samsung Unpacked event.

Details from One UI 8 Animation Files

  • Animations in One UI 8 give an early indication of the Galaxy G Fold’s design.

  • The animation is related to NFC positioning, but it also reveals aspects of the device’s appearance.

  • The tri-fold device appears to have three rear panels:

    • The left-most panel likely contains a triple rear camera setup, similar to the camera island on current Galaxy Z Fold models.
    • The middle panel appears to house the cover display and a front-facing camera for use when the device is folded.
    • The right-most panel does not seem to have bezels, suggesting it may be a non-display panel.

  • A dark variant of the animation provides additional detail on the display arrangement.

Comparison with Other Foldables

  • The Samsung Galaxy G Fold is expected to differ from HUAWEI’s Mate XT by having both hinges fold inward, creating a G-shaped fold similar to Samsung Display’s Flex G prototypes.
  • In contrast, HUAWEI’s device uses one inward and one outward folding hinge, known as an S-shaped fold.

Folding Mechanism

  • The animation shows two inward folding hinges on the Galaxy G Fold.

  • The right-most panel (left-most when flipped toward the folding display) appears to be a blank rear panel rather than a display.

  • The two hinges are different sizes, which may help the device fold flat without stressing the display. The blank rear panel is positioned in the middle when folded.

  • Samsung includes a warning animation advising users not to fold the panel with the rear cameras first, possibly due to the hinge size difference. Folding in this manner could prevent the blank rear panel from folding flat over the camera panel.

  • The unfolding animation also shows a recessed side frame, likely designed to accommodate the volume rocker and side button.

Naming and Terminology

  • The animation files refer to the device as “Multifold 7,” which may be a working codename rather than the final product name.

  • The device is sometimes called a “triple-screen foldable,” but it actually contains two displays. The term “tri-fold” is also technically inaccurate, as there are two folding hinges, not three. The industry commonly uses “tri-fold,” but “multi-fold” may be a more accurate description.

Release and Confirmation

  • Apart from a teaser at the previous Samsung Unpacked event, Samsung has not officially confirmed details about its tri-fold foldable device.
  • The animation files may represent work-in-progress concepts, and the final product could differ from what is shown. There is also a possibility that the device may not be launched at the upcoming event.

Source

Android Authority

First reported

Samsung's 'Tri-Fold' Smartphone Reportedly Set for July Unveiling and October Release

• 9to5Google

Fact-checking

Fact-check the facts of the article using external sources and databases.

✓
Confirmed

Animation files from within the latest One UI 8 build give a first look at Samsung’s tri-fold foldable.

✓
Confirmed

The device features two inward-folding hinges, commonly referred to as a G-shaped fold, which is different from the S-shaped fold on devices like the HUAWEI Mate XT.

!
Partly Confirmed

This tri-fold foldable is rumored to be called the Samsung Galaxy G Fold, and is said to be unveiled next week at Samsung Unpacked.

✓
Confirmed

Samsung is expected to launch its next generation of Galaxy foldables at Samsung Unpacked next week.

!
Partly Confirmed

While the Galaxy Z Fold 7, the Galaxy Z Flip 7, and the Galaxy Z Flip FE are anticipated, Samsung has also been rumored to unveil its tri-fold foldable phone, potentially called the Galaxy G Fold.

✓
Confirmed

Samsung’s tri-fold device will likely comprise three rear panels.

✓
Confirmed

Samsung does not refer to the device as 'Galaxy G Fold' in these animation files. Instead, the device is referred to as 'Multifold 7.'

✓
Confirmed

Outside of one teaser at the last Samsung Unpacked, Samsung has not confirmed any plans for its tri-fold foldable yet, so these animation files should be viewed with caution.

Keep reading — for free

Create a free account to follow the news. No card required.