Huawei has made waves by unveiling the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, just hours after Apple’s iPhone 16 series launch. This innovative device boasts a 10.2-inch 3K resolution OLED screen that folds to offer three distinct configurations: a compact 6.4-inch smartphone when fully folded, a 7.9-inch device when partially opened, and a full 10-inch tablet when completely unfolded.
In contrast to most foldable smartphones that feature dual screens—a primary foldable display and a cover screen—Huawei’s Mate XT employs a single, tri-foldable screen. This unique design folds at two separate levels, setting it apart from existing models. Priced at 1,99,99 Yuan (approximately Rs 2,35,000), it is on the higher end of the spectrum but offers a novel experience not available elsewhere.
The Mate XT is available for pre-order starting today and will officially go on sale on September 20, initially limited to the Chinese market.
Despite its large, fully unfolded size, the Mate XT is remarkably thin at just 3.6mm and weighs 298 grams, making it one of the slimmest foldable smartphones available. Huawei has employed advanced technology in its design, including an ultra-tough laminated structure and non-Newtonian fluid. The device features two hinges—one for resisting compression and the other for handling tension—ensuring smooth operation and stability.
Huawei has yet to disclose the specific chipset powering the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, but it is likely equipped with the in-house Kirin 9000S, which also drives the company’s non-folding flagship, the Mate 60 Pro+. The phone runs on HarmonyOS 4.2 and is available with 16 GB of RAM and options for 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB of internal storage.
The camera system on the Mate XT features a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12 MP telephoto lens with 5.5x optical zoom. For selfies, there’s an 8 MP camera positioned in a punch-hole cutout.
To support all-day usage, despite its slim 3.6mm profile, the Mate XT is equipped with a large 5600mAh silicon carbon battery, claimed to be the world’s thinnest battery used in a smartphone. The device also supports 66W fast wired charging and 50W wireless charging.
Despite the challenges posed by US sanctions, Huawei continues to deliver high-end smartphones with innovative technology, including its own chip designs. However, these devices will only be available for sale within China.
