You’re about to see a new chapter in smartphone innovation, and it’s coming from Tecno. The brand has introduced its concept tri-fold phone, the Phantom Ultimate G Fold, and it could become the first tri-fold device to offer a full Android experience.
Unlike the familiar bi-fold models from Samsung and others, this new phone uses a dual inward-folding design, creating a three-panel display that folds in on itself in two stages. It’s a unique design, and one that Tecno hopes will set it apart in the fast-growing foldable phone market.
Slimmer and smarter: a fresh design approach
Tecno claims the Phantom Ultimate G Fold measures just 11.49mm when folded, making it slimmer than the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, which measures 12.1mm. When unfolded, one of the panels is 3.49mm thick at its thinnest point, although Tecno hasn’t confirmed whether all three panels share the same thickness.
The light and slim form factor is made possible in part thanks to a 0.03mm Titan Fibre back cover. But the real star of the design is Tecno’s custom dual-hinge system. This setup features a waterdrop hinge that allows for a seamless fold between the first two panels, much like a traditional book-style foldable. The second, larger hinge allows the third panel to fold over the top, giving the device its tri-fold design, somewhat like wrapping a murtabak (a folded flatbread dish).
It’s a fresh take, especially when compared to Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate, which uses a byōbu-style fold (think Japanese folding screens). Tecno’s version feels more practical and compact, while still offering a full-sized tablet experience when opened.
Big display, powerful hardware – but no release date yet
Once fully unfolded, you’ll get a 9.94-inch display, which puts it well into tablet territory. The phone is said to feature a high-performance chipset, a triple-camera setup, and a battery with a capacity of more than 5,000mAh.
If you’re hoping to buy one soon, there’s a catch. A Tecno spokesperson confirmed to HWZ that the Phantom Ultimate G Fold is not planned for mass production, at least not yet. Despite being production-ready, it remains a concept device and will be showcased at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 instead.
That said, the technology is more than a display model. Tecno has a strong track record when it comes to implementing Android on its devices, and if the Phantom Ultimate G Fold ever makes it to market, it could be the first truly practical tri-fold phone to run the full Android OS out of the box.
Until then, it’s a waiting game. But this glimpse into the future of folding phones certainly shows Tecno is not afraid to dream big – and build even bigger.
