Huawei Tri-Fold Phone Generates Massive Buzz with 1.3 Million Pre-Orders
Huawei’s new tri-fold phone, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, is creating a buzz across the tech world. In an impressive display of consumer enthusiasm, Huawei reported that it received about 1.3 million orders for the Mate XT within just seven hours of opening reservations. This rapid influx of interest highlights the growing appeal of foldable technology and Huawei’s strong market presence.
The official reservation period for the Mate XT began at 12:08 p.m. local time on Saturday. This launch timing coincides closely with Apple’s anticipated unveiling of the iPhone 16, which is expected to be announced on Monday in the United States. Huawei’s strategic timing, with the Mate XT set to be officially revealed on Tuesday in China, seems aimed at maximizing impact and capturing consumer attention amid the global tech buzz.
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Edition
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Edition stands out with its innovative tri-fold design. Unlike conventional foldable phones, which typically feature two folds, this new device boasts three distinct folds. This groundbreaking approach promises to offer users a more versatile and expansive screen experience. The Mate XT will be available in two colors: Ruihong (red) and Xuanhei (black), each finished with vegan leather for a sleek, modern look.
Huawei has announced that the Mate XT will be available for purchase starting September 20. However, detailed pricing and specifications are expected to be revealed at the official launch event on Tuesday. The pre-order phase, which has already captured significant consumer interest, has been taking place through China’s JD.com platform.
What We Know About the Mate XT’s Features
Though Huawei has yet to confirm the final price of the Mate XT, previous reports suggest it might be priced around CNY 149,000, which translates to approximately Rs 1,76,000. The pre-booking amount paid by customers will be adjusted against the final price upon purchase. Should any buyer decide against completing the purchase, the pre-booking amount is expected to be refunded.
The Mate XT Ultimate Edition is designed to impress with its slim profile, even when folded. At under 5mm thick, it’s nearly as slim as a tablet, making it highly portable despite its advanced folding technology. When fully unfolded, the device boasts a 10-inch screen, which is intended to offer a tablet-like experience.
The phone’s dual hinges are a key feature, enabling the tri-fold functionality. This technology could be a major talking point at the launch event. The device also includes an advanced camera system with an octagonal module on the back, featuring at least four sensors. One of these sensors is a periscope telephoto lens, designed to enhance optical zoom capabilities for better photography.
Huawei’s Broader Technology Strategy
Huawei’s efforts with the Mate XT are part of a broader strategy that includes not only advancing smartphone technology but also expanding into new areas like electric vehicles. The company plans to unveil a new line of electric and other energy-efficient vehicles developed in collaboration with a Chinese automaker. This move reflects Huawei’s ambition to create synergy between its various technology sectors.
In China, it is common to see new energy vehicles displayed in smartphone shops. By launching their new vehicles alongside a cutting-edge smartphone, Huawei aims to attract attention and drive interest across multiple product categories.
Market Trends and Huawei’s Position
According to TechInsights, a Canadian research firm, global shipments of foldable smartphones grew by 85% year-over-year during the April-June period. Huawei is currently a leader in the global foldable smartphone market, followed closely by South Korea’s Samsung Electronics and China’s Vivo. This growth trend indicates a significant and increasing consumer appetite for foldable technology.
Despite these successes, Huawei has faced challenges due to U.S. export restrictions, which have affected its ability to acquire high-performance semiconductors. This has impacted its production of 5G smartphones. In response, Huawei has started using homegrown chips that offer 5G-equivalent communication speeds. This shift has allowed the company to continue its recovery in the Chinese market.
A Strategic Launch Amidst Global Competition
By launching the Mate XT around the same time as Apple’s iPhone 16, Huawei aims to capitalize on the heightened global attention to new smartphone releases. This timing is likely to help Huawei expand its domestic market share and bolster its competitive position in the foldable smartphone segment.
The Mate XT Ultimate Edition’s innovative design and advanced features represent a significant step forward in foldable phone technology. As the official unveiling approaches, tech enthusiasts and industry watchers are keenly anticipating more details about the device’s performance and pricing.
Huawei’s bold move with the Mate XT and its broader technology strategy underscore the company’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in both smartphones and new energy vehicles. With a strong start in pre-orders and a strategic launch timing, Huawei is setting the stage for a potentially game-changing entry into the tri-fold smartphone market.