Samsung is accelerating the development of a rollable smartphone. This innovative device expands smoothly from a compact form to nearly tablet size on demand.
Samsung aims to release its first commercial rollable phone in the first half of 2028. Reports suggest the model may launch alongside the Galaxy S28 series. Industry sources call it the Galaxy Z Slide. Moreover, the phone could feature a large 10-inch display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and around 440 pixels per inch. In addition, plans for a second model may emerge by 2030.
This strategy makes strategic sense for Samsung. Although the company leads the foldable market, its share of foldable display panels fell from 41.8 percent in Q4 2025 to 27 percent in Q1 2026. Therefore, analysts point to this drop as a key driver. As a result, Samsung seeks to regain the innovation edge through rollable technology.
Rollable screens present greater challenges than foldables. Engineers must ensure the display rolls reliably many times without waves, creases, or uneven surfaces. Furthermore, every component—including rollers, internal layers, and support structures—requires extreme precision. At the same time, the device must remain thin and lightweight for daily use.
Samsung has tested this technology for years. For example, the company showcased the Flex Hybrid prototype at CES 2023, which combined folding and sliding features. Later that year at SID Display Week, the Rollable Flex prototype impressed observers. It stretched from a compact 49 mm to over 254 mm, expanding more than five times in size.
If successful, the rollable phone will offer major benefits. Users can carry a pocket-friendly device that transforms into a near-tablet for video viewing, multitasking, or productive work. Importantly, it avoids the visible crease common in current foldables.
Samsung will need to deliver a premium experience to justify the expected high price. Consequently, this device could mark the next major step in smartphone design. Overall, the Galaxy Z Slide holds strong potential to reshape how people view and use phone screens. It will be exciting to follow its progress.