Back in the early 2000s, the idea of a folding smartphone sounded like science fiction. It was almost unimaginable, how would a touchscreen even bend? Wouldn’t it just snap or break after a few flips?

Fast forward to 2019, Samsung did just that. When the first Galaxy Fold was introduced, it did more than launch a new device — it opened a new chapter in mobile technology. At a time when most smartphones had similar designs, Samsung took on one of the industry’s most complex engineering challenges: creating a phone that could transform from a compact handheld device into an expansive, tablet-like one.

Since then, the Galaxy Z Series has become a showcase of Samsung’s ability to turn bold ideas into everyday experiences enhanced by innovation. From the book-style Galaxy Z Fold to the pocketable Galaxy Z Flip — and now the multi-folding Galaxy Z TriFold — Samsung has consistently reimagined what a smartphone can be.

With every generation, the formula got sharper –

• Tougher hinge: Refined folding mechanism and strengthen durability
• Sleeker form factor: Reduced thickness and weight, while increasing endurance and maximising screen utility
• Personalised experiences: New AI-powered experiences that made foldables more practical, personal and powerful

Here’s a walk-through of the evolution of Galaxy Z Series Foldables, and how it has evolved to meld innovation with form factor, to fit users’ ever-changing lifestyles.

2019: The Galaxy Fold ushers in a new chapter in smartphone innovation                

A phone that unfolds and folds. The original Galaxy Fold introduced a fundamentally different way to use a smartphone. By applying a never-before-seen hinge technology, Galaxy Z Fold users were able to move between a compact screen which felt familiar, and a large, unfolded screen that provided a large canvas for multitasking and productivity.

2020: Galaxy Z Flip offers new foldable experience

The pocketable Galaxy Z Flip was released one year after. It was a device that folded effortlessly in half and could stand upright on its own, reminiscent of a pocket cosmetics case. It was also the first foldable with a folding glass screen (utilising Samsung’s proprietary Ultra Thin Glass), which enabled the production of this new form factor.

2020: A Hideaway Hinge creates new Flex Mode experiences

In 2020, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Z Flip featured a Hideaway Hinge design, which seamlessly connected the body of the smartphone while supporting stable folding and unfolding. This resulted in Flex Mode, where users can securely fold, angle and position their devices, which was helpful for taking hands-free photos or making video calls.

Flex Mode also automatically divides the screen into two when the device is folded. In collaboration with various partners, Samsung was able to enhance the usability if this feature. For example, in the Camera App, users could preview the viewfinder on the top while adjusting the camera modes or lenses on the lower half of the screen.

2021: Making the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 more durable

Foldable devices are more exposed to environmental elements, especially at the hinge. The Galaxy Z Fold3 was the first foldable to be water resistant, with waterproofing technology applied to the outer part of the display and the hinge.

The hinge was further enhanced through the use of corrosion-resistant materials, and other design enhancements were introduced to prevent liquid from entering the device.

The Galaxy Z Fold3 used Armor Aluminium for an even thinner and lighter form factor, but it also helped to withstand shocks and reduces the risk of deformities or scratches.

The Galaxy Z Flip3 also offered improved durability and water resistance through an Armor Aluminium exterior, and Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, safeguarding users’ smartphones for any condition. A new protective film placed on the main display improved durability compared to the previous generation. The Galaxy Z Flip3 was also the first in the Galaxy Z Series Foldable line-up to be equipped with IPX8 water resistance — breaking new ground and granting users peace of mind.

2022: A refined Galaxy Z Fold4, and a bespoke Galaxy Z Flip4

Redesigned to be 21% lighter than the Galaxy Z Fold3, the Galaxy Z Fold4 prioritised a refined experience that feels lighter and easier to grip. This was possible through a redesign of the hinge motion, which reduced the weight, thickness and number of parts, while improving the device’s resilience.

And to address consumers’ desire for personalisation, the Galaxy Z Flip4 Bespoke Edition created new opportunities to express individuality. With 75 potential combinations, they could make their very own Galaxy Z Flip4 from a combination of five glass colours, including Yellow, White, Navy, Khaki and Red, and three frame colour options, including Silver, Gold and Black.

2023: An ultimate self-expression tool is born with Galaxy Z Flip5

The Galaxy Z Flip5 introduced the new Flex Window – a full cover screen that offers greater usability even before unfolding the phone.

The Flex Window allows users to easily check and control Widgets, including weather, stock market, music and other apps. The wider Cover Screen and fully accessible QWERTY keyboard make checking and responding to phone calls and messages even easier.

The new Flex Window found on Galaxy Z Flip5 provides an innovative, versatile camera experience. To snap a selfie with the rear camera, users can conveniently check their smile on the Flex Window before capturing stunning, hands-free photos from creative angles before correcting the colour and tone. The camera-stabilising Super Steady feature also ensures that users take smooth shots on the go. With improved Nightography capabilities to optimise photos in low lighting and digital 10X zoom, users can unleash their creativity anywhere, anytime and at any angle.

2024: A slimmer, AI-packed foldable

2024 was the first year Galaxy AI was introduced. Built on the foundation of Samsung’s history of form factor innovation, Galaxy AI uses powerful, intelligent, and durable foldable experience to accelerate a new era of communication, productivity, and creativity.

Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 brought together AI and a more refined design that made it even more comfortable for users to operate. Galaxy AI features such as Note Assist, Sketch to Image and more offers consumers access to easy productivity and creativity tools that significantly reduces time spent on menial tasks like notes taking or brainstorming.

Through Samsung’s longstanding partnership with Google, the new Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 offered consumers an AI-powered assistant that could help address everyday queries.

AI also extended to the ways consumers could customise their phones. Photo Ambient on the Galaxy Z Flip5 allowed users to have wallpaper that changes in real-time based on the time and weather.

2025: Raising the bar for foldable smartphones

In 2025, Samsung delivered its thinnest and lightest Galaxy Z Fold to date^[1]. The Galaxy Z Fold7 carried “Ultra” features with Galaxy  S Series’ pro-grade experience, starting with a 200MP wide-angle camera, a first in the Galaxy Z Series.

The Galaxy Z Fold7 is 8.9mm thick – almost half the thickness of the original Galaxy Fold and weighs just 215 grams (or the weight of a block of butter). It is even easier to operate with one hand, and have quick actions via the Cover Screen.

It also carried AI-powered experiences with the integration of Gemini Live, as well as Now Bar and Now Brief, which helps consumers stay on top of their day, or even be a helpful assistant to address their questions.

With the Galaxy Z Flip7, an edge-to-edge FlexWindow was introduced where consumers can see a summary of updates or address quickly messages with suggestions. The 50MP wide and 12MP Ultra-Wide lens also help consumers to capture important moments with clarity. This includes taking a high-quality selfie, right from the cover screen.

2025: A new foldable entrant enters – the Galaxy Z Trifold

Samsung introduced a new foldable form factor – the Galaxy Z Trifold. The unique multi-folding experience uses an inward-folding design to protect the main display against unforeseen incidents.

But beyond the unique form factor, the Galaxy Z Trifold has a 10” screen (when unfolded), perfect for cinematic content or multi-tasking. In fact, the Galaxy Z Trifold performs like three 6.5-inch smartphones, empowering users more room to multitask.

It goes without saying the hinge on the device has undergone rigorous testing, as Galaxy Z TriFold’s main display undergoes a 200,000-cycle multi-folding test — equivalent to folding the device approximately 100 times a day for five years, along with a series of scenario-based evaluations.

The Galaxy Z Trifold was initially sold out in Singapore as early adopters wanted a piece of the innovation.

2026: What’s next for Samsung Galaxy Z Series?

The evolution of the Galaxy Z Series reflects Samsung’s long-term commitment to meaningful innovation. What began as a bold rethinking of the smartphone, has become a steadily refined platform for productivity, creativity and mobile freedom.

Each generation has solved a different challenge: making the hinge smoother and more durable, the body thinner, the display stronger, the experience more versatile and the device more intuitive.

So, what’s next for Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip smartphones?

You’ll have to wait just a little longer. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that there’s always another side waiting to be discovered.

_{^[1] Weight may vary by country or region. The thickness of Galaxy Z Fold7 when unfolded does not include the frame of the Main Screen.}

Designed to expand the narrative beyond the film, the experience bridges the world of Spider-Man: Brand New Day with real world campaign moments that include cast appearances and interviews, spotlighting live activations, content drops, hidden easter eggs, and fan-submitted sightings. Fans can join in on the interactive campaign, follow Spider-Man sightings and engage with the story in real time, while connecting to a shared community experience at SpideyTracker.com and on X @SpideyTracker. The Spidey Tracker is available in 35 countries worldwide.

Spidey Tracker powered by Samsung Galaxy as seen in the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day film. © & 2026 MARVEL. ©2026 CPII & TSG

Galaxy Technology in Action

Through integrated storytelling, moviegoers will see the portability of Galaxy Z Flip on full display in the hands of Spider-Man and the multitasking benefits of Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Watch as Ned Leeds tries to locate the elusive Spider-Man.

Reflecting the reality that even our closest relationships can evolve as life takes us in new directions, Samsung is highlighting how its technology helps people stay close to those who matter most. It celebrates the importance of human connection and self-expression, bringing together Samsung’s ethos with the inspiring characters and timeless stories that make Spider-Man one of the world’s most iconic heroes.

“Spider-Man has always been a hero defined by his connection to his community. Teaming up with Samsung helped bring that spirit to life both on screen and beyond, integrating the technology people use every day into Spider-Man’s world while also bringing innovative and fun new ways for fans to engage through the Spidey Tracker,” said Jeffrey Godsick, Executive Vice President, Global Partnerships, Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Unfolding online and in real-world spaces throughout the summer, see Spidey pop up on the map, at live events and venues, popular creator videos — keep your eyes peeled!

Learn more about the latest Galaxy innovations keeping your favourite heroes connected at Samsung.com/sg/ and don’t miss Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man: Brand New Day exclusively in theatres 30 July 2026.

About Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man: Brand New Day
It’s a BRAND NEW DAY for Peter Parker. Fighting crime full-time as Spider-Man in a world that doesn’t remember him—and the pressure of seeing his old friends move on without him—sparks a change in Peter he may not have the power to control. But that transformation might also be the only thing that can stop a shocking new threat to the city and those he loves – a powerful villain no one can even see.

The world may have forgotten Peter Parker, but he hasn’t forgotten them.

Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the film is written by Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers and Justin Kuritzkes. Based on the MARVEL Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, serving as producers are Kevin Feige, p.g.a., Amy Pascal, p.g.a., Avi Arad, and Rachel O’Connor, p.g.a. Executive producers are Louis D’Esposito and David Cain. The film stars Tom Holland, Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Tramell Tillman, Michael Mando and Mark Ruffalo. Credits not final.

As AI evolves from text-based prompts to multimodal understanding, Galaxy devices are becoming smarter — able to get what you’re looking at and respond to situations. The camera is at the heart of this transformation. More than just a tool for capturing images, coupled with enhanced AI-powered features, the Galaxy camera is now part of the intuitive interface that turns what users see into understanding and action.

When paired with the flexible, expansive screen of a foldable, this experience becomes even more powerful, dynamic and immersive. Because innovation means nothing without trust, privacy is built into every layer helping to ensure that data is protected at all times.

Stay tuned. The camera will only get smarter — helping users capture life’s moments more vividly and make everyday experiences more seamless, personal and impactful.

The Ultra experience is ready to unfold.

That’s why Galaxy’s next chapter is to provide an experience that seamlessly blends artistry and engineering to elevate everyday interactions.

Squeeze onto a crowded train for your evening commute with the device folded in hand and use voice controls to have AI find you the perfect restaurant and text your dining companion. Finish off that unsent work email during the ride, then use the powerful camera to commemorate your night out. AI-powered tools enable all-day messaging, browsing and gaming on the go, so you can focus on your life—all without weighing you down.

With industry-leading hardware, cutting-edge performance and seamless AI integration optimised for the foldable format, it’s what users have come to expect from Galaxy Ultra.

And when it unfolds, it transforms – into a more immersive entertainment hub, a spacious workspace, or a multitasking powerhouse, now enhanced by powerful Galaxy AI features designed specifically for the foldable form.

The Ultra experience is ready to unfold.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced that it has been honoured as the 2025 Advertiser of the Year by the Spikes Asia, the oldest and most prestigious award for creativity and marketing effectiveness in the APAC region.

This highlights Samsung Electronics’ continued dedication to solving challenges for consumers with innovative and impactful solutions, which are brought to life through pioneering campaigns and forward-thinking initiatives that connect with audiences in meaningful ways. The win marks Samsung Electronics’ second time receiving Advertiser of the Year at Spikes Asia, with the first awarded in 2017.

“We are extremely honoured to receive this prestigious award. As a company with deeply rooted beliefs in openness, we strive to reflect this ethos in everything we do. This recognition is especially meaningful as we continue to expand our storytelling through innovative technologies and marketing experiences that make a positive impact on both people and the industry as a whole”, said Stephanie Choi, Executive Vice President & Head of Marketing, Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics. “By blending technology and storytelling to create deeper connections with consumers, we have worked alongside our amazing agency partners to bring our brand values to life in exciting ways – engaging, inspiring and redefining what’s possible in advertising. We’re thrilled our efforts have been recognised and we remain committed to delivering even more impactful experiences to our audiences.”

Consistently delivering groundbreaking creative campaigns over the years, Samsung Electronics remains one of the most awarded companies at Spikes Asia. Taking home four awards across multiple categories in 2024 at Spikes Asia, the “Try Galaxy Fold” campaign revolutionised the way consumers engage with foldable technology. By allowing users to sync two phones side by side, the campaign provided curious consumers with a hands-on experience of the Galaxy Z Fold’s expansive display and intuitive interface optimised for seamless multitasking. Taking home a Gold Spike and Silver Spike in Brand Experience & Activation, a Digital Craft Silver Spike and a Direct Bronze Spike, this innovative campaign reinforced the brand values of Galaxy and truly resonated with consumers to create stronger consideration of foldable smartphones moving forward.

Samsung’s “Flipvertising” campaign – which garnered the Grand Prix in both the Creative Data and Direct categories in 2023 – emphasised the brand’s ongoing commitment to excellence in creative advertising. The campaign took a unique approach to reach audiences by enabling them to take ownership of their own search experiences. By flipping traditional advertising concepts on their head, Samsung empowered its Gen Z audience to discover an organic, rewarding journey with the Galaxy Z Flip4, demonstrating Samsung’s expertise in delivering captivating yet authentic campaigns.

“Samsung’s groundbreaking work in blending technology with creativity continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in marketing. Its ability to connect with audiences in such a meaningful way reflects the future of the industry, and we are proud to recognise it as the 2025 Advertiser of the Year”, said Simon Cook, Chief Executive Officer, LIONS and Spikes Asia. “Samsung Electronics’ achievements inspire marketers globally, and this award acknowledges the incredible impact its campaigns have made across APAC and beyond.”

The Advertiser of the Year Award will be presented to Samsung Electronics at the 2025 Spikes Asia Awards ceremony which will take place at the Swissôtel The Stamford in Singapore on Thursday, 24 April 2025.