Huawei launched the Mate XT2 series in China on September 7, targeting premium buyers with tri-fold technology. The flagship unfolds twice into a tablet-sized display and runs on the new Kirin 9050 Pro chip. The launch strengthens Huawei’s position as Xiaomi prepares another foldable launch later on Monday in the Chinese market.
Apple will also host its iPhone event on Wednesday, with a foldable iPhone widely rumored to enter the competition. Huawei aims to protect its premium smartphone lead through larger screens, stronger performance and upgraded device features. The company has also used its in-house chip design to navigate continuing US technology restrictions.
Mate XT2 prices start at CNY 19,999, or about USD 2,980, with sales beginning September 12. The highest listed model costs CNY 24,999, making the device a luxury purchase for Chinese consumers.
Huawei added a redesigned hinge, stronger water resistance, and a privacy-focused display option for sensitive viewing. The company also claims 42% higher overall performance compared with the previous Mate XT series. Richard Yu said, “Pricing right now is a real challenge, because memory costs have risen sharply.”
Huawei’s Kirin 9050 Pro chip uses LogicFolding architecture under the company’s Tau Scaling Law approach. Huawei says the design increases computing power while reducing battery usage.
The company remains China’s leading smartphone brand with a 22.6% second-quarter market share. Huawei also controlled 68% of China’s foldable phone shipments during the same quarter, maintaining a strong lead.
Xiaomi’s foldable phone launch later on Monday adds immediate pressure on Huawei’s premium smartphone strategy. Additionally, Apple’s expected entry in the segment could create a larger challenge through its hardware and software ecosystem.
Xiaomi shares fell about 3% during afternoon trading after Huawei unveiled the Mate XT2 series. This shows how sensitive the business is to competitor smartphone launches.
Also Read: Apple Foldable iPhone: What the 10 Million Unit Forecast Means for Apple’s Smartphone Strategy