Samsung Electronics’ highly anticipated G Fold tri-fold phone will finally see its launch, but not on a global scale. Reports indicate that the new device will debut in only two countries: South Korea and China. Those specifics came stemming from the GSMA’s database, where two different model numbers for the G Fold were found.
The initial model number, assigned “Q7M,” is used as the official market name for the product. The second model number, “SM-F968N,” doesn’t get 5G. That model number is South Korea-facing. The use of the “N” code emphasizes its metropolitan or regional focus. In the second instance, “SM-F9680” (zero code) is intended for the Chinese market.
Limited Availability
Smartprix’s report sheds light on Samsung skipping a global launch for its G Fold model. This decision indicates a more strategic targeting of key markets versus a wide, sweeping roll out. By focusing on South Korea and China, Samsung will be serving the markets where foldable technology is most rapidly taking hold.
The decision to restrict availability could be due to the state of the market today. Global smartphone demand is still adjusting to the form factor shift to foldable smartphones, and consumers’ adoption is in the early stages. By focusing on these two countries, Samsung can better gauge market reactions and refine its approach before considering broader distribution.
Anticipated Release Timeline
Samsung’s G Fold or tri-fold phone promise to be released by this coming fall of 2023. Don’t count the South Korean tech giant out — the company is preparing for this big release. Like its competitors in the growing foldable phone space, it is doing so undercutting them. Last year, Huawei stole all the thunder by launching its own triple-fold smartphone, cranking up competition in this cutting-edge form factor.
The upcoming G Fold device could (and should) provide new experiences that haven’t been possible with Samsung’s previous foldable form-factors. We think bringing a user-friendly tri-fold design would be a huge improvement for the user experience. It would provide additional screen real estate, attracting consumers in search of more multifunctional smartphone devices.
Market Context
While the G Fold is currently being released, its use is severely limited. At the same time, the international marketplace remains an unpredictable host to foldable gadgets. Samsung and other manufacturers have been at the forefront of innovating two-fold designs. Consumers still appear hesitant to embrace the rollout of devices with increasingly complicated folding and bending factors.
By limiting the scope of the challenge to just South Korea and China, Samsung can focus its efforts on the least-risky but most-rewarding jurisdictions. By continuously iterating on its product with input from these initial markets, Samsung can position itself best for larger global launches down the road.
