An animation found inside a beta version of Samsung’s One UI software has offered perhaps the clearest look yet at the company’s rumored trifold phone. The short clip, which appears during the setup process for NFC tap-to-pay, shows a device with two hinges that unfolds from a typical phone shape into a tablet-like display made of three panels. While Samsung has not officially confirmed the project, this leak feels like the strongest indication so far that the company is preparing to introduce a new foldable design.
Key Takeaways
- A hidden animation in One UI software shows a Samsung device with two hinges and three screens.
- The clip is tied to NFC functionality, which is used for mobile payments.
- A circular icon in the animation hints at support for Qi2 magnetic wireless charging.
- This is the most convincing sign yet that Samsung is developing a trifold smartphone.
The animation was discovered by enthusiasts who dug through the code of a recent One UI update. Its purpose is straightforward, guiding users on where to place their phone for contactless payments. Yet in doing so, it reveals a three-panel device with two hinges. On the back, a circular graphic with a lightning bolt symbol appears, pointing to the inclusion of a Qi2 magnetic charging coil.
Qi2 is the newest wireless charging standard created by the Wireless Power Consortium. Its main feature is the use of magnets to perfectly align a phone with a charging pad. This alignment improves charging speeds and reliability while also paving the way for a new ecosystem of magnetic accessories, from wallets to stands to car mounts. If Samsung’s trifold device launches with Qi2, it could be one of the company’s first models to support the technology.
Samsung has long led the way in foldable smartphones since releasing the first Galaxy Fold. Today, its foldable range includes the book-style Galaxy Z Fold and the clamshell-style Galaxy Z Flip. A trifold design would mark a significant expansion of this lineup, offering users an even larger screen that can still fold into a portable form.
For now, the trifold phone remains unannounced. The name, specifications, price, and release date are all still unknown. However, its appearance within Samsung’s own software suggests development is well underway, making it more than just speculation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is a trifold phone?
A. A trifold phone is a type of foldable smartphone that has two hinges, allowing it to be folded into three sections. When unfolded, it offers a large, tablet-sized screen, and when folded, it resembles a thicker-than-average smartphone.
Q. What is Qi2 charging?
A. Qi2 is the next generation of the Qi wireless charging standard. It adds magnets for precise alignment between the charger and the device, which improves charging speed and efficiency. It is based on Apple’s MagSafe technology.
Q. How is Qi2 different from regular wireless charging?
A. Regular Qi wireless charging requires you to place your phone carefully on a charging pad to start charging. Qi2 uses magnets to automatically snap the phone into the perfect position, ensuring a consistent and efficient charge every time.
Q. Will the Samsung trifold replace the Galaxy Z Fold?
A. It is unlikely to replace the Galaxy Z Fold. The trifold would probably be a new, more premium model in Samsung’s foldable lineup, sold alongside the existing Fold and Flip series.
Q. When is the Samsung trifold phone expected to launch?
A. There is no official launch date from Samsung. The appearance of animations in its software suggests the device is in an advanced stage of development, but a public release date has not been announced.
