Last year, Huawei reimagined our perception of folding smartphones by launching the world"s first tri-folding device, Mate XT. Contrary to regular folding smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, the Huawei Mate XT utilizes a dual-hinge mechanism that allows the device to fold into a "Z" shape.
The success of the Mate XT has allegedly prompted Huawei to release a sequel this year. Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo says Huawei will release a successor in the second half of 2025. While the folding and screen solution remain unchanged, the tipster claims the second-generation Mate XT gets a faster processor and upgraded camera setup.
Digital Chat Station says Huawei will also improve the device"s accessories. Last year"s Mate XT included an Aramid Fiber Case with an integrated rotating stand in the box as official accessories. Though the tipster doesn"t mention quality improvements, Huawei could reinforce the phone"s folding endurance.
As for the release date, the first-generation Mate XT was released in September 2024, and the Mate XT 2 might also be released at the same time. Interestingly, Huawei announced its Mate XT, the world"s first tri-folding device, on September 10 last year, just one day after Apple announced its iPhone 16 series.
If Huawei wants to tease Apple again, we can expect the Mate XT 2 to drop simultaneously with the iPhone 17 series. While these devices are not in the same category, Huawei"s rivalry with Apple is common knowledge.
Tri-folding smartphones provide bigger screens at a more compact size compared to tablets. For example, the Huawei Mate XT has a screen size of 10.2 inches when it"s fully open and 7.9 inches when folded once. Also, when you fold it twice, you get a 6.4-inch screen like regular smartphones.
Huawei is now the biggest contender in the tri-folding segment, but Samsung may also join the race with a tri-fold version of its Galaxy Fold devices.