On Tuesday, Huawei released its new device, the first tri-fold smartphone in the world, Mate XT, a few hours after the introduction of the iPhone 16.
The new gadget’s strategically timed launch sparked a massive buzz for the Chinese tech company. Mate XT, priced at $2,800.00, attempts to steal the spotlight from Apple.
During a launch ceremony in a Shenzhen tech hub, Huawei demonstrated that the device can be folded three ways like an accordion screen door.
According to its website, the smartphone has already garnered four million pre-orders without any required deposit. According to research firm IDC, the global market for foldable phones hit four million units in the second quarter.
The Chinese gadget maker’s Executive Director, Richard Yu, claimed that they created a phone that others could only visualize but could not produce. He added that their team has worked on Mate XT for five years.
Furthermore, the new Huawei phone is integrated with a new artificial intelligence (AI) assistant. It will include features such as editing functions and AI-boosted image editing capabilities.
Yu also mentioned that the AI functions are backed by their in-house Kylin chips. Moreover, the Mate XT will be available in red and black with a 10.20-inch display screen.
Apple Competes with Huawei as It Faces AI Delays
Apple’s new iPhone 16 was unable to engage investors with its long-awaited AI features, which are still in test mode.
Furthermore, the launch of the new Huawei device heightened the stakes in the battle between the two tech giants in the global smartphone market.
Apple’s new iPhone 16 will utilize Apple Intelligence, which can enhance its voice assistant Siri and its camera.
Meanwhile, the iOS maker did not raise prices for the new devices. According to analysts, its pricing strategy may benefit them as consumers may be hesitant to spend on luxury gadgets.
Huawei released its new Mate XT a few hours following the Apple event.
