Chinese smartphone makers Huawei and Xiaomi are set to unveil their latest foldable devices on September 7, 2026, positioning themselves to capture significant attention just two days before Apple is expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone Ultra. This strategic timing highlights a growing competitive landscape in the premium foldable smartphone segment.
Huawei Mate XT 2: A New Tri-Fold Device
Huawei is debuting its second-generation ultra-premium tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT 2. This successor to the original Mate XT is designed with two distinct folding mechanisms, effectively merging the functionalities of a phone and a tablet into a single device. According to a Bloomberg report, the Mate XT 2 is anticipated to feature Huawei's innovative LogicFolding chip-design approach, promising enhanced performance.
Xiaomi 18 Fold: Passport-Like Design
On the same evening, Xiaomi is expected to launch its new foldable device, the Xiaomi 18 Fold. This model is rumored to sport a passport-like design, drawing comparisons to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the anticipated form factor of Apple’s iPhone Ultra. The Xiaomi 18 Fold is projected to be powered by memory from CXMT and Xiaomi’s proprietary Xring O3 chip, showcasing a push towards domestic component development.
Setting the Stage for a Foldable Battle
The rapid release of foldable hardware by Huawei and Xiaomi, coupled with their advancements in domestic chip and component development, can be seen as a direct challenge to Apple's impending entry into the foldable market. While this intensified competition could pose a formidable hurdle for Apple, the tech giant's participation is also expected to significantly boost overall consumer interest and adoption in the foldable smartphone category.
Premium Foldables Amidst Market Decline
The global smartphone market is currently experiencing a downturn, with projections indicating a 14% fall in shipments this year, marking its worst-ever decline, according to Counterpoint. Amidst rising costs for memory and other components, smartphone manufacturers are increasingly shifting their focus towards premium devices, particularly foldables, to navigate higher production expenses and maintain profitability.