Apple’s highly anticipated event is just around the corner, but Huawei and Xiaomi have already grabbed attention with their latest foldable phones. Huawei has unveiled the Mate XT2, a tri-fold smartphone that expands into a tablet-sized display, while Xiaomi has introduced the Xiaomi 18 Fold as its most premium foldable device yet.
Huawei Mate XT2 Brings Tri-Fold Design
Huawei Mate XT2 is designed to open from both sides, transforming the smartphone into a tablet-sized device. The phone is powered by the Kirin 9050 Pro processor and features a redesigned hinge system along with improved resistance against dust and water.
Huawei has also added a privacy-focused display feature designed to limit the viewing angle for people standing nearby. Sales of the Mate XT2 are scheduled to begin on September 12, with prices starting at 19,999 yuan and going up to 24,999 yuan for the top-end variant.
Huawei Executive Director Richard Yu highlighted the pressure created by rising memory costs and the expense of incorporating new technologies into the device.
Xiaomi 18 Fold Targets the Premium Segment
Xiaomi has also entered the spotlight with its Xiaomi 18 Fold. The company is positioning the device as its most high-end smartphone so far. When folded, the phone is designed to remain compact enough to fit easily into a pocket, while its larger unfolded display can run three applications simultaneously.
The Xiaomi 18 Fold comes with the company’s XRing O3 AI processor and uses DRAM memory supplied by Chinese chipmaker CXMT. Prices range from 10,999 yuan to 14,999 yuan in China.
Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun said the device is lighter than Apple’s iPhone Pro Max and claimed that its XRing O3 processor offers faster responsiveness than Apple’s A19 Pro.
Why Huawei and Xiaomi Launched Before Apple
The timing of both launches is significant because Apple’s major event is scheduled for Wednesday. The company is widely expected to unveil new iPhone models, while reports have also suggested that Apple could introduce its first foldable iPhone.
By launching their latest foldable devices just before Apple’s event, Huawei and Xiaomi are putting their premium offerings directly into the spotlight and increasing competition in the rapidly growing category.
Huawei Remains Strong in China’s Foldable Market
Huawei already holds a strong position in China’s smartphone market. According to the figures cited in the source material, Huawei accounted for 22.6% of China’s overall smartphone market in the second quarter, compared with Apple’s 18.1%.
Its position is even stronger in the foldable segment. Huawei reportedly accounted for around 68% of foldable smartphone shipments in China during the same quarter, giving the company a significant advantage as competition intensifies.
Samsung Also Strengthens Its Foldable Lineup
Samsung remains another major player in the global foldable smartphone market. The company launched three new Galaxy Z foldable devices in July, expanding its lineup ahead of Apple’s expected entry into the category.
With Huawei, Xiaomi and Samsung already competing aggressively, Apple’s upcoming move could become an important moment for the premium foldable smartphone market. The arrival of a potential foldable iPhone could further accelerate competition and push manufacturers to introduce more advanced designs and technologies.