Huawei launched a new version of its flagship foldable smartphone on Monday as it sought to defend its position in China’s premium smartphone market against Xiaomi and Apple.
The new Mate XT2 features a dual-fold design that opens into a tablet-sized screen and is powered by Huawei’s new Kirin 9050 Pro chip.
Huawei said the chip delivers greater computing performance while consuming less power, helping the company reduce its reliance on advanced technologies restricted by the United States.
The Mate XT2 also features a redesigned folding mechanism, improved water resistance, enhanced cameras and an optional privacy screen designed to prevent people nearby from viewing the display.
Huawei said the device delivers 42% better overall performance than its predecessor based on its internal testing. The company priced the new phones between 19,999 yuan ($2,980) and 24,999 yuan ($3,725), with sales scheduled to begin on September 12.
The launch comes as competition in China’s premium smartphone market intensifies. Xiaomi is scheduled to launch a rival foldable phone later on Monday, while Apple is expected to unveil its latest iPhone lineup on Wednesday, with expectations that the company could introduce its first foldable iPhone.
Huawei remains the leading smartphone maker in China. The company held a 22.6% share of the Chinese smartphone market in the second quarter, ahead of Apple at 18.1% and Xiaomi at 12.4%, according to IDC.
Huawei has an even stronger position in the country’s foldable segment, accounting for 68% of foldable smartphone shipments in the second quarter, according to Smart Analytics Global.
The company has used its growing control over hardware and chip development to compete despite US sanctions that restrict its access to advanced semiconductor technology. Huawei does not currently sell its smartphones in the US.
The intensifying competition comes as smartphone manufacturers increasingly turn to premium devices and foldable technology to stimulate demand in a mature market.
Apple’s expected entry into the foldable segment could further accelerate adoption while increasing pressure on Chinese manufacturers to differentiate their products.
Huawei’s launch also puts pressure on Xiaomi, which is seeking to strengthen its position in the premium segment. Xiaomi shares fell after Huawei unveiled the Mate XT2, reflecting investor concerns about the competitive impact of the launch.
With Huawei and Xiaomi launching new foldables within hours of each other and Apple preparing its latest iPhone launch, the week is shaping up to be a significant test of the growing premium smartphone market.
Stay ahead of the Stories shaping our world. Subscribe to Impact Newswire and join our
WhatsApp Channel for updates on global tech, business, and innovation—all in one place.
Dive deeper into the future with the Cause Effect 4.0 Podcast, where we explore the ideas, trends, and technologies driving the global AI conversation.
Got a story to share? Contact Us to reach a global audience with Impact Newswire.
Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
Discover more from Impact Newswire
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
