According to a report from 9to5Google, Samsung has not given up on the tri-fold form factor despite the commercial failure of the first attempt. The sequel is expected to address the issues that plagued the original, including its high price point and durability concerns, while a new slideable phone would represent an entirely new category for the company.

The original Galaxy Z TriFold was discontinued in early March after failing to gain traction with consumers. Samsung had pivoted to a wider foldable design for its mainline Galaxy Z series, but the tri-fold concept apparently remains alive in the company''s product roadmap.

The slideable phone concept would place Samsung in competition with companies like LG, which demonstrated rollable phone prototypes before exiting the smartphone market. A phone that extends its display by sliding rather than folding could offer a more seamless transition between compact and expanded modes.