Introduction to Samsung’s Latest Innovation
Samsung may have accidentally given us a sneak peek at its upcoming "multifold" device in the latest One UI 8 build update. The update includes animations that show what the trifold Samsung flagship might look like, including its dual-hinge folding mechanism, display layout, camera setup, and NFC location.
Design and Features
The device, speculated to be called the "Galaxy G Fold," is labeled as the "Multifold 7" in the One UI 8 animation files. Samsung first teased the new foldable at its Unpacked event in January, alongside a basic illustration of what appears to be a triple-screen phone that aligns with the design in the leaked animations. The leaked design shows a three-panel device with a large triple-camera setup on the rear, located on the right-hand panel when fully unfolded. Animations indicate that the NFC chip will be housed in this panel.
Camera and Display
The central panel appears to be the cover display, with a front-facing camera that can be used when the device is folded shut. When fully unfolded, the front-facing camera is on the right side — the same panel that houses the rear triple-camera on its reverse. This unique design allows for flexibility and convenience, making it easy to take photos and videos from different angles.
Folding Mechanism
One animation notably reveals how the device will likely fold, showing two differently-sized hinges, with the left-hand display folding inwards, suggesting the right-hand display is designed to sandwich over the top. Another animation warns users not to fold the right-hand panel first, as the camera module will prevent the display from folding flat, and the left-hand display will be unable to fully fold without potentially damaging the device.
Comparison to Other Devices
This design is different from the Z-shaped folding mechanism used by the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design, which launched last September as the first commercially available trifold phone. The Mate XT folds in such a way that it’s possible to use one, two, or all three display panels at once, making it more versatile than Samsung’s apparent design, though it leaves part of the panel exposed at all times, so it’s more vulnerable too.
Conclusion
While this may not be the final design for Samsung’s upcoming foldable, the leaked animations give us an idea of what to expect. With Samsung’s next Unpacked event scheduled for July 9th, we may get some official details about the device, including its release date and pricing. Until then, we can only speculate about the features and capabilities of this innovative new device. One thing is certain, however: Samsung is pushing the boundaries of smartphone design, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
