Xiaomi and Huawei Challenge Apple with New Foldable Phones
Two Chinese tech giants have unveiled new flagship foldable devices, positioning themselves ahead of Apple's upcoming release with distinct design philosophies and competitive pricing.
The premium smartphone market in China is heating up as Huawei and Xiaomi introduce their latest foldable devices. These launches occur just before Apple’s next product reveal, offering consumers two distinct approaches to expanding screen real estate on a single device. The competition is not just about size but also about price points and proprietary technology developed under specific geopolitical constraints.
According to reporting by GN technics/mobile (en-US), these new models highlight the diverging strategies of the two manufacturers. Huawei focuses on a tri-fold design that mimics a tablet, while Xiaomi offers a more traditional book-style fold with a lower price tag. This move intensifies the rivalry in the high-end segment, where component costs are rising and market share is fiercely contested.
Huawei Leads With Tri-Fold Design
Huawei’s Mate XT2 enters the market from a position of strength, having held a significant share of the Chinese foldable segment. The device folds out twice to create a tablet-sized display, a feature that remains unique among major global manufacturers. This design choice allows Huawei to differentiate its product in a crowded premium market, offering a form factor that competitors have not yet replicated at scale.
The new model includes a redesigned hinge and improved water resistance, addressing common concerns about durability in foldable devices. A privacy screen feature is also included to limit viewing angles, adding a layer of security for users in public spaces. These hardware improvements aim to reassure buyers that the device is robust enough for daily professional use.
Xiaomi Offers Affordable Alternative
Xiaomi’s 18 Fold targets a different segment by offering a lower entry price. Starting at approximately $1,540, it is significantly cheaper than Huawei’s top-tier model, which begins near $3,000. This price gap makes the Xiaomi device accessible to customers who want premium foldable features without the premium price tag associated with Huawei’s tri-fold innovation.
The device is engineered to be lightweight, weighing 219 grams when unfolded. Xiaomi’s CEO claims it is lighter than Apple’s iPhone Pro Max, a comparison intended to appeal to users concerned about device weight. The phone also utilizes a locally developed AI processor, signaling a push toward more domestically sourced technology components.
Proprietary Chips Face Verification Challenges
Both companies are promoting their latest processors with strong performance claims. Huawei states its Kirin 9050 Pro offers greater computing power with lower energy consumption, part of a broader strategy to overcome US restrictions on advanced technology. Xiaomi similarly asserts that its XRing O3 chip outperforms Apple’s A19 Pro in responsiveness.
However, these performance comparisons are based on internal assessments by the manufacturers rather than independent third-party testing. Consumers should view these claims with caution, as they have not been verified by neutral benchmarking organizations. The reliance on proprietary chips also reflects the broader trend of Chinese tech firms developing self-sufficient technology ecosystems to mitigate supply chain risks.
