Ahead Of Apple's First Foldable iPhone Launch, A Tri-Folding Smartphone Has Gone On Pre-Order In China: All Details

As Apple gears up to introduce its inaugural foldable iPhone with the iPhone 18 Pro series in September, Huawei has begun accepting pre-orders for its third-generation tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT 2, in China. Pre-orders opened at 10:08 am on August 31 through Huawei's online platform, preceding the device's official launch on September 7.

This move highlights the rapid advancements in Chinese technology compared to Apple's cautious entry into the foldable market. Pre-order specifics and pricing structure Customers can reserve the Mate XT 2 by depositing 1,000 yuan, with the final payment deadline set for September 7, 2:45 p.m. local time. Deliveries are anticipated to commence by October 31, indicating the phone will not be immediately available upon launch.

The device comes in three color options: Xuanhei black, Hao Bai white, and Jinzi purple with a marble pattern. The configurations span from a base model with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage to a premium 16GB/2TB purple variant featuring a privacy display and stylus support, making it the most feature-rich option. The standard black and white models are restricted to the 512GB and 1TB storage tiers, while the higher-capacity, stylus-featured version is only available in the purple color at present.

Hardware upgrades The Mate XT 2 is rumored to be powered by Huawei's Kirin 9050 Pro chipset, an advancement over the Kirin 9010 found in the original Mate XT. The device will be equipped with a triple rear camera system and a substantial 6,000mAh battery supporting 100W fast charging, an improvement from the previous model's 5,600mAh battery and 66W charging capability.

Most notably, Huawei has adopted an updated inward-folding design for the Mate XT 2, with both side panels folding inward over the central display when closed, fully encompassing the flexible main screen. This redesign addresses durability concerns associated with tri-fold technology, which often involve multiple hinges and moving parts prone to damage.

Timing is significant The announcement coincides with Apple's anticipated debut of its first foldable iPhone, tentatively named the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra, slated for its fall unveiling alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Unlike the Mate XT 2, Apple's foldable will adopt a book-style design, featuring a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner display when unfolded.

Supply chain reports have suggested potential delays, with some estimates predicting a September release and others hinting at a later availability in December or early 2027 due to hinge and display component shortages.