Huawei Unveils the World's First Tri-Fold Smartphone, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, Outshining Apple’s iPhone 16 Launch

Just hours after the launch of Apple’s iPhone 16 series, Huawei has made headlines by unveiling the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition. This groundbreaking device features a tablet-sized 10.2-inch 3K resolution foldable OLED screen. The Mate XT offers three different modes: when fully folded, it functions as a 6.4-inch smartphone; when partially opened, it becomes a 7.9-inch foldable smartphone; and when fully opened, it transforms into a large 10.2-inch tablet.

Unlike most foldable smartphones, which typically feature a primary foldable screen along with a separate cover display, Huawei’s tri-fold technology uses a single screen that folds at two points. This innovative design results in a seamless experience across different display sizes. Priced at 1,99,999 Yuan (approximately ₹2,35,000), the Mate XT Ultimate Edition is undeniably expensive, but it stands alone in its category. The smartphone is now available for pre-order, with sales set to begin on September 20, although availability is currently limited to China.

Weighing in at 298 grams, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition is remarkably thin at just 3.6mm when fully unfolded, making it one of the slimmest smartphones on the market. Huawei has achieved this feat by incorporating cutting-edge technologies, including an ultra-tough laminated structure and the use of non-Newtonian fluid. The device features two hinges: an inner fold that resists compression and an outer fold that resists tension, allowing the hinges to maintain their position and operate smoothly in one direction.

While Huawei has not disclosed the specific chip powering the Mate XT Ultimate Edition, it is believed to be based on the in-house Kirin 9010 processor. The device runs on HarmonyOS 4.2 and comes equipped with 16 GB of RAM, with storage options ranging from 256 GB to 1 TB. The camera system on the Mate XT includes a 50 MP primary camera, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12 MP telephoto lens with 5.5x optical zoom. For selfies, there is an 8 MP front-facing camera located within a punch-hole cutout.

Despite its ultra-slim design, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition packs a robust 5,600 mAh silicon-carbon battery, which Huawei claims is the thinnest battery ever used in a smartphone. The device supports 66W fast wired charging and 50W wireless charging, ensuring users can power up quickly. Even amid ongoing U.S. sanctions, Huawei continues to push the envelope in smartphone innovation, including independent chip design. However, due to these restrictions, the Mate XT Ultimate Edition will not be available outside of China.

Overall, Huawei's Mate XT Ultimate Edition has set a new benchmark in the smartphone industry, blending futuristic design with powerful technology, and giving Apple’s latest offerings some serious competition.