Samsung Unveils First Multi-Folding Phone: Flex S and Flex G

In a bold move to maintain its dominance in the foldable smartphone market, Samsung Display has showcased its latest innovations: the Flex S and Flex G multi-folding phone prototypes. These groundbreaking concepts were revealed at CES 2025, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile technology where screens don't just fold once, but twice, transforming the way we interact with our devices.

As competition in the foldable sector intensifies with players like Huawei, Google, and OnePlus entering the fray, Samsung is pushing the boundaries of what's possible with display technology. The Flex S and Flex G represent a significant leap forward from the current Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series, promising larger screens in compact form factors.

The Flex S: A Triple-Folding Marvel

The Flex S prototype features a unique "S-folding" mechanism. Unlike traditional foldables that close like a book, the Flex S folds both inward and outward, resembling the letter 'S'. When fully unfolded, the device offers a massive screen real estate, akin to a tablet, making it ideal for multitasking, gaming, and media consumption.

• Design: The Flex S consists of three distinct screen panels. When folded, one panel remains exposed, acting as a cover display for quick interactions.

• Usability: This design allows users to transform a standard-sized smartphone into a large-screen device seamlessly. The flexibility of the hinge mechanism is a key highlight, demonstrating Samsung's engineering prowess.

The Flex G: Dual Inward Folding for Maximum Protection

The Flex G takes a different approach with a dual inward-folding design. Both sides of the screen fold inwards towards the center, protecting the display completely when the device is closed. This design is particularly appealing for durability, as the delicate flexible screen is shielded from scratches and impacts during transport.

• Design: The Flex G folds like a tri-fold brochure, with the two outer panels closing over the central one.

• Form Factor: This compact design makes the device highly portable while still offering a large display when opened. It addresses one of the main concerns of foldable phone users: screen durability.

Why This Matters: Heating Up the Competition

Samsung's unveil comes at a critical time. The foldable market is no longer a niche; it is becoming a battleground for innovation. With Huawei recently launching its own tri-fold phone, the Mate XT, Samsung is under pressure to innovate. The Flex S and Flex G are Samsung's answer, showing that they are not just resting on the success of the Galaxy Z Fold series but are actively developing the next generation of form factors.

Industry analysts suggest that while these are currently prototypes, the technology is mature enough for consumer products in the near future. Samsung's display arm, Samsung Display, is a key supplier for many other smartphone manufacturers, meaning these innovations could soon find their way into devices from other brands as well.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While the concepts are exciting, challenges remain. Durability, battery life, and software optimization for these unique aspect ratios will be critical hurdles to overcome. The complexity of a double hinge mechanism also raises questions about the device's thickness and weight.

However, Samsung's history of refining foldable tech gives reason for optimism. The company has successfully iterated on the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip lines, addressing early durability issues. The Flex S and Flex G signal that Samsung is ready to lead the next wave of smartphone evolution, moving beyond the single fold to a multi-folding future.