Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold May Have Just Inched a Step Closer to US Launch

The Galaxy Z TriFold is getting close to being ready for prime time, and the excitement around it keeps growing. After showing brief teasers on the sidelines of APEC in South Korea, Samsung may be gearing up for a major release. According to reports, the Galaxy Z TriFold could launch on December 5, which is only about three weeks away.

First Galaxy Z TriFold firmware spotted for unlocked US variant

The launch plans are somewhat conflicted. Repeated reports have suggested that the US will be included in the first wave, and it appears it may be the only Western market to get that privilege. Other markets expected to see an initial launch include South Korea and China. A new report also confirms that the Galaxy Z TriFold will be available in both unlocked and carrier-locked variants in the US.

As we move closer to the launch date, Samsung has begun testing firmware for both carrier-locked and unlocked US models. The unlocked version, identified by the number SM-F968U1, has only recently entered testing (via SamMobile). That timing is a bit late for a phone expected on December 5. But it also suggests Samsung has been working behind the scenes for some time.

What might the Galaxy Z TriFold offer in terms of specs, and at what price?

Putting all the rumors together, we know the Galaxy Z TriFold may feature a 10-inch main screen when fully opened. When folded, it may offer a 6.5-inch cover screen on the front. As with any foldable, you can use it like a normal bar-style phone when closed. Once opened, it will offer a tablet-like experience.

Under the hood, Samsung will likely avoid using an Exynos chipset and go with Qualcomm instead. The chances are slim that Samsung will choose the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, but the possibility cannot be ruled out. If it does not use the newest chip, it will probably come with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

Regarding pricing, it will cost a bomb. Multiple reports suggest a price of about 4.4 million won in South Korea. In USD, that’s roughly $3,000. To put that in perspective, it is about $1,000 more than the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s launch price and, although not a perfect comparison, around $1,200 more than the Galaxy XR headset.