Photo source: Huawei
Huawei has introduced what it claims to be the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, just hours after Apple launched its iPhone 16. This strategically timed event on Tuesday has created considerable excitement for the Chinese technology company.
Based in Shenzhen, Huawei has become a focal point in the intensifying technological rivalry between the United States and China. The company is currently experiencing a remarkable resurgence, having released highly sought-after models such as the Mate 60 Pro and Mate X5.
The Mate XT smartphone, which has already garnered over 3.7 million pre-orders since its online debut on Saturday, signifies another step in Huawei’s ongoing recovery. The base model is priced at 19,999 yuan (approximately USD $2,800).
Richard Yu, chairman of Huawei’s consumer business division, stated during the livestreamed launch that the development of this smartphone spanned five years and resulted in “breakthroughs” in both screen and hinge technologies.
“Huawei Mate XT is the world’s first triple-fold smartphone, and the largest and thinnest foldable handset globally. We are the first in the world to achieve outward folding (in smartphones) and the first to create an inward-folding phone with no gaps,” he stated.
The device features three panels that can be folded up to three times. It also boasts a 10.2-inch display and is available in red and black.
This product launch coincided closely with Apple’s launch of several new products, including the iPhone 16, which is designed specifically for generative artificial intelligence.
Amber Liu, a research manager at Canalys, remarked that Huawei’s swift recovery poses a direct challenge to Apple’s standing in China, which constitutes over 20% of Apple’s global shipments.
Liu also pointed out that Chinese smartphone manufacturers have recently occupied all top five positions in domestic market share for the first time ever, pushing Apple down to sixth place. She added that key competitive factors will include high-end products, software capabilities, and AI integration.
Apple has indicated that generative AI capabilities on its iPhone 16 will enable users to generate text and images using natural-language prompts. It remains uncertain whether the Mate XT incorporates any AI functionalities.
Analysts suggest that the success of this launch will hinge on factors such as pricing and availability. Liu anticipates that actual sales may not match pre-order numbers due to these considerations.
Sales of Huawei’s flagship smartphones surged by 72% during the first five months of 2024 compared to the same timeframe last year, which underscores the company’s aspirations to reclaim its position at the forefront of the market despite stringent U.S. restrictions.
U.S. officials have long asserted that Huawei poses a national security threat, alleging potential espionage by the Chinese government through its equipment. Although Huawei has consistently denied these claims, some U.S. allies—such as the United Kingdom—have restricted Huawei’s involvement in developing 5G networks.
The U.S. ban also prevented companies like Google from providing new Huawei devices with their version of Android OS, significantly hindering Huawei’s smartphone ambitions at that time.
Now, however, Huawei is steadily making its way back to prominence while also exploring new business ventures. Last year saw the launch of an electric sedan aimed at competing with Tesla’s Model S.
Additionally, Huawei has ambitious plans within AI technology. Nvidia recently identified Huawei as a leading competitor across various sectors, including processor production for AI systems.
