Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold Hands-On: It Surprised Me
▼ Summary
– The Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold is a large dual-hinge foldable phone that transforms from a 6.5-inch device into a 10-inch tablet, offering a significantly larger screen than traditional foldables.
– In tablet mode, the device provides an immersive experience for media and productivity, with features like DeX mode enabling a desktop-like multitasking workflow.
– The Z Trifold feels sturdy and its hinges show less visible creasing than previous Samsung foldables, though it is notably bulky when closed.
– Key drawbacks include the screen easily collecting fingerprints and a 5,600mAh battery that is smaller than those in some contemporary flagship phones.
– While impressively polished, its U.S. price and release date are unannounced, with an expected cost of at least $2,400 based on its South Korean launch price.
My initial worry was that the Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold would feel like a brick, trading portability for a massive screen. After getting my hands on it, I can say it’s surprisingly compelling. This dual-hinge device transforms from a standard-sized smartphone into a genuine 10-inch tablet, creating a pocketable powerhouse that genuinely impressed me.
When closed, you use a fully functional 6.5-inch cover screen. Unfolding it reveals the expansive 10-inch display, which is a game-changer for media consumption and multitasking. Watching videos felt immersive, akin to using a dedicated tablet, and reading articles in portrait mode was far more comfortable. Activating Samsung DeX mode turned the experience into something resembling a desktop, allowing me to open and resize multiple application windows with ease. While I didn’t have accessories to test, pairing a wireless keyboard and mouse could realistically make this a laptop alternative.
The engineering feels robust. While undeniably thick when folded, the device becomes remarkably slim in tablet form. I applied some gentle pressure and found the build reassuringly solid. A significant improvement is the hinge design; the two creases were far less noticeable than on earlier Samsung foldables, a promising sign for long-term aesthetics. The textured back also provides a secure, comfortable grip.
However, it’s not without its compromises. In its fully unfolded state, the glossy external screen becomes a magnet for fingerprints, necessitating a cleaning cloth for neat freaks. Battery life remains a question mark. The 5,600mAh cell sounds substantial but is actually smaller than batteries in some current flagship phones, which is a concern for powering such a large display.
The largest uncertainty is cost and availability. Samsung has not confirmed U.S. pricing or a launch date. Based on its approximate $2,400 price in South Korea, it will command a significant premium. With the Galaxy Z Fold series already pushing the $2,000 boundary, it’s unclear if consumers will pay even more for the extra screen real estate. What is clear is that this first trifold effort feels refined, leveraging years of foldable technology experience. After this brief encounter, I’m genuinely eager to use it as my everyday device to explore its full potential for both entertainment and getting work done.
(Source: Gizmodo)
