Huawei Launches New Tri-Fold Phone As Xiaomi, Apple Step Up Premium Competition.
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Huawei has officially unveiled its next-generation flagship tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT2 (Ultimate Design), intensifying competition in China’s premium handset market ahead of high-profile releases from Xiaomi and Apple. Powered by Huawei’s proprietary Kirin 9050 Pro chip, the new device integrates the Xuanwu Ultra-Durable Tri-Fold Architecture, an advanced precision hinge system, and an optional hardware-level Smart Shield Privacy Screen. Running on HarmonyOS 7, the Mate XT2 delivers a 42% overall performance boost over its predecessor while navigating strict international technology restrictions. Pricing in China starts at ¥19,999 (approximately $2,980) for the 256GB baseline model, scaling up to ¥29,999 (roughly $4,470) for a top-tier 2TB Special Edition bundled with a stylus kit. The launch strategically precedes Apple's anticipated September 9 product showcase—where industry expectations point toward potential developments in the foldable segment—as well as upcoming rival folding devices from Xiaomi.
Huawei has launched its latest flagship foldable smartphone, the Mate XT2, as competition intensifies in China’s premium handset market ahead of new launches from Xiaomi and Apple.
The Mate XT2 uses a dual-fold design, opening into a tablet-sized display, and is powered by Huawei’s new Kirin 9050 Pro chip. Huawei said the chip delivers greater computing power while using less electricity, helping the company navigate US restrictions on access to advanced technology.
The new device features a redesigned folding mechanism, improved water resistance, upgraded cameras and an optional privacy display that limits viewing from the sides. Huawei said the Mate XT2 delivers 42% higher overall performance than its predecessor based on company testing.
The launch comes as Xiaomi prepares to unveil a rival foldable smartphone, while Apple is expected to introduce its latest iPhone lineup on September 9, with market expectations that the company could enter the foldable-phone segment.
Huawei remains a major force in China’s smartphone market. IDC data showed the company held 22.6% of China’s smartphone market in the second quarter, ahead of Apple at 18.1% and Xiaomi at 12.4%.
Its position is even stronger in foldables, where Huawei accounted for 68% of shipments in China during the second quarter, according to Smart Analytics Global.
The launch highlights the growing importance of foldable devices in the premium smartphone race, with Chinese manufacturers pushing new form factors and proprietary chips as Apple prepares to compete in the segment.
