Huawei Mate XTs: A Realistic Look at Huawei’s Second Tri-Fold
Huawei is set to launch its second-generation tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XTs, in China on September 4, 2025. The new model comes just ahead of IFA and before the iPhone 17 reveal, in what looks like a move to capture headlines during a competitive week for tech releases.
Design and Hardware: What’s Actually Confirmed
The Mate XTs keeps a familiar design language—octagonal lens module, slim chassis, and multi-mode folding. Like last year’s Mate XT, it’s a device with a flexible 10.2-inch LTPO OLED display at its largest, plus intermediate 7.9-inch and compact 6.4-inch folded modes, all running at up to 120Hz for smoother visuals.
Weight is around 298g, and the body features side-mounted fingerprint, a nano SIM slot, and several color options including black, red, white, and hibiscus purple as teased by Huawei’s official channels.
The device runs HarmonyOS 5.1 in China, likely optimized for multitasking and stylus use—now confirmed as working in pre-launch videos. Stylus (M-Pencil) support is integrated directly into the foldable format, marking a notable upgrade for creative and professional uses.
Storage configuration options will reportedly include:
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16GB RAM + 256GB storage
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16GB RAM + 512GB storage
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16GB RAM + 1TB storage
The main upgrade under the hood is expected to be the Kirin 9020, a new SoC with satellite connectivity. Its predecessor, the XT Ultimate, ran on a Kirin 9010 octa-core, but official specs for the 9020 remain unconfirmed as of press time.
Camera and Imaging
The Mate XTs sports a triple rear camera setup:
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50MP primary sensor, likely with variable aperture for better low-light adaptability
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12MP periscope telephoto lens with 5.5x optical zoom
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12MP ultra-wide lens, all enhanced with multispectral “Red Maple” color camera for improved color accuracy across lighting conditions
On the front, users get an 8MP punch-hole camera, and video recording supports up to 4K with OIS and HDR. Huawei’s laser autofocus and color spectrum sensor return, along with expected features like panorama and LED flash.
Battery, Charging & Connectivity
The phone carries a 5600mAh Li-Po cell—standard for large foldables. Charging specs are same as XT Ultimate: 66W fast wired, 50W wireless, 7.5W reverse wireless, and 5W reverse wired for accessory top-ups.
Connectivity is robust with dual SIM, 5G standalone/non-standalone networks, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, USB-C 3.1, and support for BDS satellite calling and messaging (China only).
Pricing & Availability
Pre-reservations for Mate XTs are live in China, with actual sale price expected to match last year’s Mate XT: around CNY 20,000 (US $2,800). Global launch remains uncertain, though international interest is high, especially for fans of unconventional phone designs.
Market Position & Criticism
Huawei’s tri-fold phones are a feat of engineering, but also risky: triple-screen devices have more folding creases, higher weight, and uncertain long-term durability, as observed in early Mate XT reviews.
The company’s pivot away from Qualcomm and MediaTek means the Kirin 9020 may lag behind rivals on benchmarks and app compatibility, but offers distinct features like satellite comms and niche OS integration.
Due to US tech sanctions, the device will rely on in-house hardware and HarmonyOS rather than mainstream Android. The price point is still high and the form factor remains best suited for enthusiasts or professionals who need large screens on the go.
