At the launch event, Huawei unveiled the Mate XT, the world’s first tri-folding smartphone, alongside Apple’s iPhone 16. Priced at 19,999 yuan (2,812 USD) for the 16 GB RAM and 256 GB internal memory version, the Mate XT is significantly more expensive than the iPhone 16 series. It boasts a tri-fold design with a flexible screen, two hinges, and a remarkably thin profile of about 3.6mm when fully extended. The 10.2-inch OLED panel offers up to 3K resolution, and the device comes in black and red colors with a metal chassis and faux leather backs.
Featuring 50W wireless charging, 66W wired charging, and 7.5W reverse charging capabilities, the Mate XT is a powerhouse. The device sports a 3-lens camera setup, including a 50 MP main camera with adjustable aperture, a 12 MP wide-angle camera, and a 12 MP zoom lens with 5.5x optical zoom. Additionally, it incorporates GenAI features and satellite connection, marking it as a high-end competitor in the smartphone market.
Huawei started accepting pre-orders for the Mate XT on September 7 and has already received over 4 million orders. The device will officially go on sale on September 20, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16. This strategic move signifies Huawei’s direct competition with Apple, aiming to reclaim market share in the world’s largest smartphone market.
Despite concerns about software compatibility with the innovative design, analysts project that the Mate XT’s unique design and high demand will lead to its success in the market. With Huawei’s resurgence in China’s smartphone market, the launch of the Mate XT on the same day as the iPhone 16 further intensifies the competition between the two tech giants.