Samsung Rethinks Ultra-Thin and Tri-Fold Phones: What’s Next for Mobile Innovation?
The pursuit of the slimmest smartphone may be losing steam. Following reports of lackluster sales for Apple’s iPhone Air, Samsung is reassessing its commitment to ultra-thin devices like the Galaxy S25 Edge. According to Samsung COO Won-Joon Choi, sales of the S25 Edge were “relatively lower than other lineups,” largely due to its smaller battery and resulting shorter battery life.
The Rise and Fall of the Ultra-Thin
Samsung’s exploration of the ultra-thin form factor with the Galaxy S25 Edge appears to have been a calculated risk that didn’t fully pay off. The device was positioned as a competitor to the iPhone Air, but consumer demand hasn’t matched expectations. This suggests that while a sleek design is appealing, it’s not the primary driver for most smartphone purchases.
“People have different tastes and requirements and different criteria in selecting their device,” Choi explained, highlighting the diverse needs of smartphone users. This signals a potential shift in Samsung’s design philosophy, prioritizing features beyond just minimizing thickness.
The Tri-Fold Experiment: A Bold Step, Uncertain Future
Samsung similarly took a significant gamble with the Galaxy TriFold, a device boasting a unique multi-screen design and a hefty $2,900 price tag. While the initial stock reportedly sold out, the company remains undecided about producing a second generation. Choi stated the TriFold was initially intended to “create a new category and putting all of our know-how into this,” but a decision on its future remains pending.
A Wider Foldable on the Horizon?
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the TriFold, Samsung isn’t abandoning foldable technology altogether. Leaks suggest the company is developing a wider, passport-style version of its Galaxy Fold. Choi hinted at this development, noting that some users prioritize productivity features, while others seek a larger screen for media consumption. “Obviously, if you have a TriFold kind of aspect ratio, it’s optimized for that kind of experience and application,” he said.
This suggests Samsung is focusing on refining existing foldable designs to cater to specific user needs, rather than pursuing entirely new form factors with uncertain market appeal.
What Which means for Consumers
For consumers considering an upgrade, the Galaxy S26 series appears to be the safer bet. The Galaxy S26 Ultra, in particular, is generating buzz with its innovative privacy screen. If you’re drawn to the wider aspect ratio of foldable devices, the upcoming wider Galaxy Fold promises an enhanced media consumption experience.
The current shift indicates Samsung is listening to consumer feedback and adapting its strategy accordingly. The company is moving away from chasing niche trends and focusing on delivering devices that offer a balance of innovation, functionality, and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will Samsung continue to make thin phones?
- Samsung is currently uncommitted to another phone directly competing with the iPhone Air, suggesting a potential shift away from prioritizing extreme thinness.
- Is the Galaxy TriFold discontinued?
- Samsung hasn’t made a final decision on a second-generation TriFold, but its future is uncertain given the high price and initial market response.
- What is Samsung’s next foldable phone?
- Samsung is reportedly developing a wider version of the Galaxy Fold, offering a larger screen for media consumption.
Pro Tip: Before upgrading, consider your primary smartphone use. If battery life and overall functionality are more important than a super-slim design, the standard Galaxy S26 series might be a better choice.
Stay tuned for more updates on Samsung’s mobile strategy as the Galaxy S26 series launch approaches. What are your thoughts on the future of smartphone design? Share your opinions in the comments below!
