Galaxy Z Trifold: New name for Samsung Galaxy G Fold emerges online

Numerous leaks zeroed in on the Galaxy G Fold moniker for Samsung's inaugural tri-folding smartphone. It made sense, given it would fold in a G-shaped pattern, as confirmed by subsequent leaks. However, Galaxyclub.nl's recent discovery suggests it might launch as something else entirely.

Samsung has snagged a patent for the "Galaxy Z Trifold" name in South Korea (codenamed SM-F968N). As a part of Samsung's Z-branded foldable lineup, the name makes sense. Besides, Samsung chose a rather unimaginative 'Fold' nametag for a device that folds, and 'trifold' seems like a natural progression from there. However, there's a good chance Samsung is merely reserving the name to ward off future patent trolls.

Until Samsung officially shows it off, there's no telling what the putative tri-fold device will be called. Some leakers have suggested the name 'Galaxy Z Fold Ultra' as a potential option. It would make more sense since it adds to an already established product line and distinguishes itself with the 'Ultra' tag.

Besides, Tecno has already beaten Samsung to the punch with its Tecno Phantom Ultimate G Fold. Even though it is a concept device for now, it has a non-zero chance of being released as a mainstream offering later, although Samsung will almost certainly be the first to launch something people can actually buy.

That said, the Samsung Galaxy G Fold/Galaxy Z Trifold might not be widely available at launch. Its prohibitively high production costs and sky-high MSRP will put it beyond the reach of most users. It isn't necessarily bad because, like the original Galaxy Z Fold, it is more of a proof of concept than a commercially viable smartphone.