In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Folding Phone Patent Technology: Quad-Fold, 360 Rotation, and the Upcoming Galaxy Z Fold

In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Folding Phone Patent Technology: Quad-Fold, 360 Rotation, and the Upcoming Galaxy Z FoldRecently, Samsung has been highly active in the foldable phone market, securing several noteworthy patents that hint at a revolution in foldable phone design. These patents cover various folding methods and screen designs, ranging from quad-fold devices and 360 rotating hinges to the upcoming first tri-fold phone, Galaxy Z Fold, showcasing Samsung's substantial technical prowess and innovative potential in this field

In-depth Analysis of Samsung's Folding Phone Patent Technology: Quad-Fold, 360 Rotation, and the Upcoming Galaxy Z Fold

Recently, Samsung has been highly active in the foldable phone market, securing several noteworthy patents that hint at a revolution in foldable phone design. These patents cover various folding methods and screen designs, ranging from quad-fold devices and 360 rotating hinges to the upcoming first tri-fold phone, Galaxy Z Fold, showcasing Samsung's substantial technical prowess and innovative potential in this field. This article will delve into these patented technologies and offer a perspective on future trends in Samsung's foldable phone development.

Quad-Fold Device: The Perfect Fusion of Portability and Large Screen

A recently acquired Samsung patent reveals a groundbreaking quad-fold device comprising four panels, flexibly connected by three independent hinges. Patent drawings show the device folding into a phone-sized form for easy portability, and unfolding into a tablet-sized display offering a significantly larger screen area. Crucially, the hinge system allows for multi-angle adjustments, potentially mitigating the screen crease issues common in existing foldable phones.

Compared to existing single or dual-fold devices, this quad-fold design significantly improves portability and screen utilization. Users can run multiple applications simultaneously in split-screen mode, enabling efficient multitasking in "laptop mode," or enjoy seamless large-screen entertainment, like watching movies, in "tent mode." While still in the research and development phase, with practical implementation likely some time away, this technology undeniably presents limitless possibilities for the future of foldable phones.

360 Rotating Hinge: The Ultimate Inward and Outward Folding Experience

Beyond the quad-fold patent, Samsung has also secured another promising patent: a large foldable phone equipped with a 360 rotatable hinge. This technology enables both inward and outward folding, further enhancing user experience flexibility. The patent description mentions the use of ultra-thin glass (UTG) flexible screens, incorporating a support layer combining a flexible polymer substrate and a flexible adhesive layer to enhance screen strength. Independent folding axes and customized support plates further ensure screen durability.

Samsung showcased a similar "FlexIn&Out" concept device in 2023, but this technology remains uncommercialized. Therefore, the specific model incorporating this 360 rotating hinge remains unclear, but its technological potential is undoubtedly promising.

Samsung's Tri-Fold Phone: The Galaxy Z Fold is Coming

While the aforementioned foldable devices are still conceptual, the release date of Samsung's tri-fold phone is becoming clearer. According to GSMA IMEI database information, the internal model number for Samsung's tri-fold device is Q7M, corresponding to the public model number SM-F968 series. Based on historical GSMA data, new devices are typically released 6-7 months after database registration. Therefore, it's speculated that the Samsung tri-fold phone might launch in October 2025, pending official confirmation.

At MWC 2025, Samsung showcased two screen solutions: FlexG and FlexS. FlexG uses a dual inward-folding design, while FlexS resembles Huawei's tri-fold Mate X. Recent leaks suggest Samsung's first tri-fold phone will likely be named Galaxy Z Fold and adopt the more durable FlexG dual inward-folding design. This phone is expected to feature a 6.49-inch outer screen and a 9.96-inch inner screen, folding to a height of approximately 6.54 inches, similar to a standard smartphone. The inner screen is nearly 30% larger than the 7.6-inch screen of the Z Fold6, providing a more immersive visual experience.

Regarding the battery, the recorded charging speed for Samsung's tri-fold phone is currently around 23W, with a likely typical value of 25W. Currently, the Galaxy Z Fold is being developed/produced concurrently with the Z series. As this is Samsung's first tri-fold phone, initial production may be limited to approximately 200,000 units to gauge market response. The price will naturally be relatively high.

Technical Details and Market Outlook

Many technical details of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold tri-fold phone are emerging. Its dual inward-folding design offers a durability advantage over FlexS. The 6.49-inch outer screen ensures convenient daily use. The massive 9.96-inch inner screen provides a vast visual space, offering an enhanced experience for both work and entertainment.

It's noteworthy that the phone's charging speed is currently listed at 23W, potentially increasing to 25W. While not top-tier in the current market, this speed should suffice for daily use, considering the phone's size and battery capacity.

The initial production run of only 200,000 units for Samsung's first tri-fold phone indicates a cautious approach to gauging market response and adjusting subsequent production plans. This also suggests a high price point, which is understandable.

Conclusion

Samsung's recent breakthroughs in the foldable phone market demonstrate its leading position and powerful innovation capabilities. From quad-fold devices and 360 rotating hinges to the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold tri-fold phone, Samsung continues to explore the possibilities of foldable phones, offering users an unparalleled mobile experience. While these technologies require further refinement and maturation, they undoubtedly foreshadow the future direction of foldable phone development. We eagerly await further developments. Samsung's continuous innovation and future direction warrant close attention. The launch of the Galaxy Z Fold will not only significantly impact Samsung's own product line but will also revolutionize the foldable phone market landscape.