Huawei’s highly anticipated $2,800 tri-fold phone, the Mate XT, disappointed eager fans during its launch in China, with many unable to purchase the device in-store. At Huawei’s flagship store in Shenzhen, customers who had waited in line since the previous night were frustrated to learn that only confirmed pre-orders could secure a phone.
“I’ve been here since 10 p.m. last night because this tri-folding phone is a first, and I’m excited to support our country,” said a university student named Ye. “But this is very disappointing. They should have made it clear we can’t buy.”
Similar scenes unfolded at the Huawei store in Beijing, where fans hoping to buy the innovative device were met with the same restrictions. Analysts had previously warned that supply chain constraints could leave many potential buyers empty-handed, yet Huawei did not disclose how many units were available at launch.
The Mate XT, which features a unique accordion-style folding design, was released alongside Apple’s latest smartphone, but it comes at more than double the price of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Despite its innovation, some consumers found the price tag excessive. One Apple fan, Shi, remarked, “It’s too expensive and not for ordinary customers.”
The excitement surrounding the Mate XT contrasts sharply with Apple’s recent launch, which has been affected by the company’s lack of an AI partner in China. Apple’s AI features won’t be available in Chinese until next year, but some fans downplayed the significance of this gap.
Pre-orders for the Mate XT have surged past 6.5 million—nearly double the global shipments of foldable smartphones in the last quarter, according to IDC. However, production issues related to key components such as the panel and hinges may hinder the device’s mass availability, raising concerns about Huawei’s production capabilities amid ongoing U.S. sanctions.
Despite its premium status, experts predict that the Mate XT may struggle to achieve the same sales volume as its bi-fold predecessor, the Mate X5, which retails for $1,630 and has sold 2.2 million units. Analyst Amber Liu noted that while the Mate XT represents a significant advancement, it faces challenges in replicating the success of the Mate X5.
I’m a finance writer with three years of experience in investment analysis. At Investorwelcome , I translate complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights to help investors navigate the market with confidence. Combining my solid academic background with practical industry knowledge, I’m dedicated to providing readers with accurate and timely information. My goal is to empower both new and seasoned investors by simplifying intricate data and offering strategic advice. When I’m not writing, I stay engaged with market trends and investment innovations to ensure my content remains relevant and valuable.
aparna