Samsung’s $3,000 Tri-Fold Might Still Charge Slower Than Mid-Rangers

Samsung’s long-rumored tri-fold smartphone is one step closer to becoming reality. While it may not debut at next month’s Unpacked, the device has started gathering regulatory approvals, a key step before market introduction. The phone appeared on China’s 3C certification platform, revealing its charging speed.

Samsung prepares to launch its first tri-fold smartphone

An unannounced Samsung device, bearing model number SM-S9680, recently surfaced on China’s 3C (Compulsory Certification of China) database. While the listing doesn’t specify its marketing name, the model number is enough to tell us that it is the Chinese version of Samsung’s first tri-fold smartphone, aka the Galaxy G Fold.

The certification revealed that the device has a power rating of 9V at 2.77A, which translates into 25W charging. This has been the standard for Samsung’s foldables, and the company seemingly won’t upgrade to faster charging this year. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7, and Flip FE, all of which are expected to go official next month, have also been certified with 25W charging.

Samsung does offer 45W charging on its Ultra models in the Galaxy S flagship line. In fact, it also upgraded a few mod-range devices to 45W charging this year. This leaves us wondering why foldables are still capped at 25W charging. Early reports suggest this tri-fold may cost well over $3,000. We’re not sure how Samsung plans to justify 25W charging on such an expensive phone.

Leaks say the tri-fold would debut first in China before expanding to other regions like South Korea. Samsung currently has no plans to launch it in the US or any other global market. However, it may change its mind later, depending on how the market responds to the phone. The device is expected to make its debut in Korea and China around September or October this year.