Apple Set to Challenge Huawei as Foldable Smartphone Battle Heats Up
· 50-word read
In 50 words
Huawei has launched its new Mate XT2 tri-fold smartphone, strengthening its lead in China’s premium foldable market just before Apple’s September 9 product event. Apple is widely expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, potentially transforming a niche category into the smartphone industry’s next major premium battleground.
Why it matters
Huawei already commands about 68% of China’s foldable-phone shipments, while Apple brings one of the world’s largest premium smartphone customer bases. Apple’s entry could accelerate mainstream adoption of foldables and intensify competition among Huawei, Samsung, Xiaomi and other manufacturers. The battle is particularly important in China, where Huawei held 22.6% of the overall smartphone market in the second quarter compared with Apple’s 18.1%.
What's next
All eyes are on Apple’s September 9 event, where analysts expect the company to introduce its first foldable iPhone. If confirmed, attention will quickly shift to pricing, durability, display technology and whether Apple can challenge Huawei’s established foldable leadership. Xiaomi is also intensifying competition after unveiling its 18 Fold, powered by its own Xring O3 processor.
Key dates
- 2024: Huawei introduces its groundbreaking Mate XT tri-fold smartphone
- 2024–26: Huawei strengthens its leadership in China’s foldable market
- Sep 7, 2026: Huawei unveils the Mate XT2 with its new Kirin 9050 Pro chip
- Sep 7: Xiaomi launches the 18 Fold
- Sep 9: Apple holds its major product event, with its first foldable iPhone widely expected
- Next: Apple, Huawei, Xiaomi and Samsung compete for leadership as foldables move further into the premium mainstream.
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Sources
- youtube.comView original →
