In the fast-changing world of smartphone technology, Huawei has once again set new standards with the launch of the Mate XT Ultimate Design. This revolutionary device, revealed in September 2024, is the first tri-fold smartphone in the world, effortlessly combining cutting-edge engineering with elegant design features.
Design and Build of Mate XT
The Mate XT Ultimate Design showcases Huawei’s dedication to quality and innovation. Its tri-fold mechanism enables the device to switch between three unique configurations:
Single Screen Mode: A compact 6.4-inch display (2232 x 1008 pixels) perfect for daily tasks.
Dual Screen Mode: Expands to a 7.9-inch display (2232 x 2048 pixels), great for boosting productivity and enjoying media.
Triple Screen Mode: Unfolds into a tablet-like 10.2-inch display (2232 x 3184 pixels), providing an immersive experience for multitasking and entertainment. Even with its large display options, the device remains impressively slim, measuring just 3.6mm in thickness when fully opened.
The exterior features high-quality vegan leather, available in stylish red and black colors, accented by Umber Gold details that add a touch of elegance. The careful design process includes a camera module ring that takes 22 hours to craft and involves 78 individual steps, ensuring that each ring is unique.
Display Technology
The Mate XT’s appeal lies in its versatile LTPO OLED display, which boasts a stunning 3K resolution. With a 120Hz refresh rate, it provides smooth visuals and features 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming for comfortable viewing in different lighting situations. The unique tri-fold design is made possible by Huawei’s Advanced Precision Hinge System, utilizing ultra-high-strength steel that has a deformation resistance of 1,900MPa. This impressive engineering allows for effortless transitions between display modes while ensuring durability.
Performance and Hardware
The Mate XT Ultimate Design is equipped with Huawei’s own Kirin 9010 chipset, which is built on a 7nm architecture. This powerful processor is complemented by a generous 16GB of RAM, providing excellent performance for multitasking and resource-intensive applications. Users can choose from a variety of storage options, including 256GB, 512GB, and an impressive 1TB, making it ideal for those with significant storage requirements. The device runs on HarmonyOS 4.2, Huawei’s custom operating system, delivering a smooth and user-friendly experience.
Camera System
Photography enthusiasts will love the Mate XT’s adaptable camera system. The rear module features a 50-megapixel main sensor with a variable aperture that ranges from f/1.4 to f/4.0, ensuring outstanding performance in different lighting situations. It also includes a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens and a 12-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with 5.5x optical zoom, allowing users to take detailed shots from afar. For selfies and video calls, there’s an 8-megapixel front-facing camera cleverly integrated into the display.
Battery and Charging
To support its large display and robust hardware, the Mate XT comes with a 5600mAh battery. Charging is quick and efficient, featuring 66W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, which helps reduce downtime. Moreover, the device includes reverse charging capabilities, enabling it to act as a power source for other devices—a convenient feature for users who are always on the move.
Software and AI Integration
The Mate XT, powered by HarmonyOS 4.2, delivers a smooth and integrated user experience. This operating system is tailored to make the most of its unique tri-fold design, featuring capabilities like multi-window support and effortless app continuity across various screen setups. Huawei’s AI assistant, Celia, is built into the system, offering features such as voice-to-text transcription, real-time translation, and smart photo editing, all of which boost productivity and user convenience.
Market Position and Pricing
The Mate XT Ultimate Design is marketed as a luxury device, and it certainly comes with a hefty price tag. The entry-level model, which includes 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, is priced at about €3,499 (approximately $3,662). There are also higher storage options available, each at a higher cost, showcasing the device’s advanced technology and innovative design. Originally launched in China, Huawei has since made the Mate XT available in select international markets, including a global launch event that took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in February 2025.
Conclusion
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design marks a major advancement in smartphone technology, combining cutting-edge engineering with sleek design. Its tri-fold mechanism provides exceptional versatility, accommodating various user needs from a compact smartphone to an immersive tablet experience. Although its high price may limit its audience, the Mate XT establishes a new standard for mobile device innovation, setting the stage for future developments in the foldable smartphone industry.