Huawei launches new triple-folding smartphone.

The Mate XTs are a design upgrade of the Mate XT. Photo: Huawei .

Huawei has just announced the Mate XTs, an upgraded version of its triple-folding phone line with a new design and hardware improvements aimed at strengthening its position in the high-end smartphone market.

The Mate XTs feature two folding mechanisms, allowing it to function as a regular smartphone or expand into two tablet forms similar to the iPad. This is the second time Huawei has experimented with the triple-folding device concept, following the launch of the Mate XT last year.

As Apple's biggest rival in China, Huawei is gradually regaining lost market share thanks to its self-sufficiency in chip manufacturing. The Mate XTs are equipped with the latest Kirin 9020 processor, marking a significant step forward in domestic semiconductor technology.

At an online event from Shenzhen, Huawei announced the price of the Mate XTs at 17,999 yuan (approximately $2,500 ), lower than the $2,800 price tag of its predecessor. Huawei's consumer electronics chief, Richard Yu, stated that the device can expand its screen to a maximum of 10.2 inches and will come in four color options, double the number offered by last year's model.

"Huawei is the only company that can beat Huawei in the triple-folding phone market," Yu asserted.

The Chinese tech giant emphasizes its ability to deliver a "PC-like" experience to users by leveraging the large screen. Office applications are also optimized to run on the Mate XTs, supporting multitasking, smooth switching between windows, and parallel display.

The Mate XTs are priced lower than their predecessors. Photo: Huawei.

The new product runs on HarmonyOS, an operating system developed by Huawei, instead of Android. This is the next step in Huawei's strategy to reduce its dependence on Google. HarmonyOS is expected to create a competitive advantage in China, coupled with support from domestic developers. Tencent has optimized WeChat for the platform, while the government encourages local businesses to promote the application.

The launch of the Mate XTs comes amidst a strong recovery in the global foldable phone market. According to Counterpoint Research , global sales in Q2 2025 increased 45% year-on-year, with China accounting for the majority of the market. However, market share in the US also doubled, and sales nearly tripled.

Analysts believe Apple could create a new sensation if it launches a foldable iPhone in 2026.

With competitive pricing, powerful domestically produced chips, and its own operating system, the Mate XTs are seen as a strategic move by Huawei to consolidate its advantage in the Chinese market. At the same time, the tech giant continues to challenge international rivals in the high-end smartphone segment.