Huawei, Xiaomi Unveil New Foldable Phones as Apple Enters Premium Segment
Huawei introduces its third-generation tri-fold smartphone while Xiaomi launches a new foldable ahead of Apple’s expected September 9 device reveal
BEIJING, Sept 7: Huawei and Xiaomi have launched new flagship foldable smartphones, intensifying competition in China’s premium handset market ahead of Apple’s expected entry into the segment.
Huawei unveiled the Mate XT2, its third generation tri-fold smartphone, which uses a dual-fold mechanism to transform from a conventional handset into a larger, tablet-like display.
The device is powered by Huawei’s in-house Kirin 9050 Pro chipset and incorporates the company’s LogicFolding architecture. The technology is designed to improve computing performance while reducing power consumption.
Huawei has also redesigned the phone’s hinge and strengthened its water resistance, while adding a privacy-oriented display feature.
Xiaomi simultaneously introduced its 18 Fold, adding another major Chinese competitor to the premium foldable market.
The launches come just days before Apple is expected to unveil its own foldable iPhone Ultra on September 9. The development could mark a major shift in the global foldable smartphone market, where Chinese manufacturers have already established a strong presence.
Huawei currently remains barred from selling its smartphones in the US because of national security restrictions, but its tri-fold devices have helped the company establish a distinctive position in the foldable segment.
The latest launches underline the growing competition among smartphone manufacturers over display technology, compact designs and high-performance mobile computing as foldable devices move further into the premium market.
