Samsung Galaxy tri-fold phone leaked via One UI 8 animations- When will it launch?

Samsung may have unintentionally revealed its first tri-fold phone details through hidden animations in its latest One UI 8 update. Here’s what’s coming.

Samsung may have revealed more than it intended. A close look at its latest One UI 8 software update has sparked speculation about a new foldable device unlike anything in its current lineup. Observers noted animations featuring a multi-fold design, which leads many to believe Samsung’s first tri-fold phone may be closer to launch than expected. Let’s take a closer look at what the report says.

Leaked Animations Suggest a G-Shaped Fold

Samsung may have accidentally revealed its upcoming tri-fold phone through animations in the new One UI 8. (Reuters)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

Read moreRead less

According to Android Authority reports, the update includes animations that depict a device folding in a G-shaped manner using two inward hinges. The structure looks distinct from existing foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold or Flip series. One animation shows a device composed of three segments: the left panel features a triple-lens camera setup, the centre holds what appears to be a front-facing camera and a display, and the right panel seems display-free, likely intended for sealing the fold.

The way the device folds resembles Samsung Display’s earlier “Flex G” prototype. Both hinges fold inward, which forms a compact shape unlike Huawei’s tri-fold model, which uses an S-shape with one hinge folding outward. The animations even show hinge asymmetry more clearly in darker themes, possibly a design tactic to ease pressure on the screen when closed. One warning in the software suggests users should avoid folding the camera side first, which hints at a sensitive folding mechanism.

The term “Multifold 7” appears in the animation file names, likely an internal reference or placeholder. Reports suggest the final product could launch under the name “Galaxy G Fold.” Samsung hasn’t confirmed the device details yet, but earlier teasers from previous Unpacked events hinted at the brand’s exploration into more complex foldables.

On the other hand, a South Korean channel, The Bell, cited by leaker @Jukanlosreve, reports that mass production of the tri-fold phone will begin in September 2025. That means a commercial release is expected between October and December this year.

Meanwhile, Samsung’s Unpacked event on July 9 is expected to focus on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Flip FE, all featuring familiar fold-in-half designs. The tri-fold might make a cameo, but a full launch seems to be scheduled for later in the year.

Still, the animations embedded in One UI 8 show more than just testing visuals; they offer Samsung’s clearest signal yet that a triple-panel foldable may soon become part of its foldable family.

Mobile finder: Samsung Galaxy Z fold 6 5G LATEST price, specs and all details