Huawei Unfolds the Future: Mate XT Tri-Fold Phone Debuts in China

ByJim Miller

In a bold move that pushes the boundaries of smartphone technology, Huawei has unveiled its groundbreaking Mate XT, the world's first tri-fold phone. 

This innovative device marks a new chapter in the evolution of foldable smartphones, offering users unprecedented versatility and screen real estate.

Mate XT Tri-Fold Phone Debuts in China

A Display That Defies Convention

The Mate XT's standout feature is undoubtedly its 10.2-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED display. The resolution of 2,232 x 3,184 and a 16:11 aspect ratio dwarfs the 8-inch maximum offered by current foldables like the Pixel Fold. But what truly sets it apart is its unique folding mechanism.

Unlike traditional foldables with a separate cover display, the Mate XT employs a single, continuous screen that wraps around the device. This ingenious design allows for three distinct configurations:

  1. Fully unfolded: 10.2-inch tablet mode
  2. Half-folded: 7.9-inch mini-tablet mode
  3. Fully folded: 6.4-inch smartphone mode

All configurations benefit from a smooth and responsive user experience enabled by the 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO technology.

Impressive Specs in a Slim Package

Despite its complex folding mechanism, Huawei has kept the Mate XT surprisingly slim. It measures 12.8mm thick when folded – a mere 0.7mm more than Samsung's recently released Galaxy Z Fold 5. 

This impressive engineering feat includes a substantial 5,600 mAh silicon battery, enabling 66W wired and 50W wireless charging.

Other notable specifications include:

  • Processor: Likely the Kirin 9010 5G
  • Main camera: 50MP with variable aperture (f/1.4 to f/4.0)
  • Additional cameras: 12MP ultrawide, 12MP 5.5x periscope telephoto
  • Selfie camera: 8MP punch-hole in the cover display section
  • Extra features: IR blaster, power button, fingerprint sensor

A Steep Price for Innovation

As with most cutting-edge technology, the Huawei Mate XT has a premium price tag. In China, where it's currently exclusively available, the base 16GB/256GB model starts at CNY 19,999 (approximately $2,810). 

For those seeking more storage, the 16GB/1TB variant will set you back CNY 23,999 (around $3,370).

Global Availability Remains Uncertain

While the Mate XT represents a significant leap forward in smartphone design, its global release remains in question. 

Huawei continues to face challenges due to ongoing U.S. sanctions, including restrictions on using Google Mobile Services (GMS). This and the device's high price point may limit its availability outside of China.

However, the introduction of the Mate XT is likely to spark a new wave of innovation in the foldable smartphone market. As other manufacturers take note of this tri-fold design, we may see similar concepts emerge from competing brands shortly.

The Huawei Mate XT is a testament to the company's commitment to pushing technological boundaries, even in adversity. 

While it may not be the device that brings foldable phones to the masses, it certainly provides a glimpse into the potential future of smartphone design.