Huawei has unveiled the second generation of its trifold smartphone, the Huawei Mate XTs, as the company seeks to strengthen its position in China and cautiously expand overseas. The new device is priced between 17,999 yuan ($2,520) and 21,999 yuan for the highest memory variant. Unlike traditional foldable phones, which fold in half with a single hinge, the Mate XTs features two hinges, allowing it to fold at two points and transform into a tablet-like device when fully opened. Huawei introduced the trifold concept last year with the Mate XT, the world’s first device of this kind. The original model first launched in China and later became available in select international markets.
Huawei is hoping the Mate XTs will sustain the momentum it has regained in the Chinese smartphone market since late 2023. Recent data shows Huawei’s market share in China rose to 18% in the second quarter, up from 15% the previous year, making it the largest smartphone vendor in the country. Within the foldable phone segment, Huawei dominates with a 75% market share. The company sold 470,000 units of the original Mate XT since its launch, generating over $1.3 billion in revenue. Analysts note that the device’s strong performance reflects demand for innovative and premium smartphones, despite its high price.
The Mate XTs also signals Huawei’s ongoing efforts to innovate after U.S. sanctions in 2020 disrupted its smartphone business by restricting access to critical software and chip technology. Since then, Huawei has developed its own operating system and secured domestically manufactured chips for its newer devices, enabling a gradual comeback.
The Mate XTs runs HarmonyOS 5.1, Huawei’s latest operating system, and is designed as a productivity-oriented device. It supports PC-grade apps optimized for the trifold screen, allowing users to stack, resize, and move multiple windows like they would on a desktop. The phone will be available in four colors and features a 5,600 mAh battery, which is relatively large compared with other devices on the market. To attract customers, Huawei is offering at least 50% off screen replacements and two complimentary service appointments, either at home or at a preferred location. With these features, the Mate XTs represents Huawei’s continued push to redefine smartphone design and functionality while reinforcing its leadership in the domestic foldable market.
READ MORE: