Huawei's first tri-fold phone is likely to be ahead of the curve in terms of innovative design

Foldable phones are starting to gain traction with mainstream consumers. Huawei, a smartphone giant, is reportedly looking to expand its efforts in a similar new product line.

The Chinese tech giant is rumored to be developing a triple-folding phone, which could launch in the second quarter of 2024.

Huawei's tri-fold phone is a hot topic, making users excited because of its mysterious design. (Illustration photo: Lizenby/CNET)

Many sources, including Taiwan's TechNews, said that Huawei has begun large-scale procurement of materials and components to focus on this super product project.

The triple-folding phone is expected to feature a Z- or S-shaped folding design, but its screen size will remain similar to other conventional folding phones, at around 6.4 inches.

BOE is said to be the panel supplier for Huawei's new tri-fold phone, while companies like Zhaoli and Fusda are said to be involved in manufacturing hinges for the device.

Huawei has been working on triple-folding display technology for some time now. Reports suggest the company began filing patents for the technology as early as 2021, with additional filings in March and July 2022. Industry insider Ross Young previously suggested that Huawei's triple-folding phone could be released as late as 2023, but it appears there has been a real delay. But if we look at the latest report, the technology may now be mature enough to make it to market.

Huawei’s development of a triple-folding phone coincides with an expected surge in demand for foldable phones. While shipments fell short of expectations in 2023 (15.7 million units), analysts predict a 12.3% year-on-year increase to 17.7 million units in 2024.

The Associated Press has even confirmed Huawei's collaboration with suppliers for the tri-fold device, suggesting it's close to mass production. While specific details remain under wraps, Huawei's entry into the tri-fold display market is certainly exciting news for foldable phone enthusiasts.

HUYNH DUNG (Source: Gizmochina/ Huaweicentral)

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