Huawei has introduced the Mate XT Ultimate, the world’s first smartphone with a tri-fold design, marking a significant milestone in mobile technology. While the innovative device has garnered considerable excitement, its high price has sparked debate.
Revolutionary Tri-Fold Design
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate is distinguished by its groundbreaking tri-fold design, featuring a unique form factor that sets it apart from existing foldable phones. When fully expanded, the device offers a remarkable 10.2-inch display. It can be folded into a 7.9-inch form and further compacted into a 6.4-inch bar-style phone, catering to different usage scenarios.
The device’s flexible LTPO OLED screen boasts a resolution of 3,184 x 2,232 pixels, with a 120 Hz refresh rate and support for 10 billion colours. The screen adjusts its resolution based on the folding configuration, maintaining a high level of visual quality across its various modes. The Mate XT Ultimate is slim at 3.6 mm and weighs 298 grams, despite its intricate folding mechanism.
Advanced Features and Specifications
In addition to its unique design, the Mate XT Ultimate is packed with advanced features. The phone includes a sophisticated camera system with a 50 MP primary sensor, a 12 MP telephoto lens, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a laser autofocus module. It also features an 8 MP front camera located in a punch-hole on the large display.
The device operates on HarmonyOS 4.2 and supports a range of AI functionalities, such as voice-to-text conversion, real-time document translation, and photo retouching. Unique to the Chinese market is its dual-way satellite communication via Tiantong satellites, offered through China Telecom.
High Price Draws Criticism
The Mate XT Ultimate’s pricing has been a focal point of discussion. The base model, with 256 GB of storage, is priced at 19,999 yuan (approximately $2,800), with higher models reaching up to 23,999 yuan (about $3,300). This steep price has led to criticism, especially during a time of economic uncertainty.
Many potential buyers have expressed concerns about the cost, as highlighted by a Weibo poll where many respondents indicated the price dissuaded them.
National Pride and Market Impact
Despite the price concerns, the Mate XT Ultimate has sparked significant national pride in China. The launch, which occurred shortly after Apple’s iPhone 16 event, has been widely celebrated as a symbol of China’s technological advancement. Social media buzz has been robust, with a trending video of Apple employees visiting a Huawei store further amplifying the device’s impact.
Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate represents a major technological advancement with its world-first tri-fold design. However, its high price may limit its accessibility and market reach. While it has generated considerable excitement and pride in China, the device’s cost remains a significant factor in its broader acceptance.
