Huawei recently introduced the Huawei Mate XT, the world’s first tri-foldable phone, during a global launch event in Kuala Lumpur. Initially introduced in China five months ago, the Mate XT features a unique design with three mini-panels that fold twice. This makes it stand out from other foldable phones on the market.
With a 3.6-millimeter thickness (0.14 inches) and a 10.2-inch screen, it offers a display size similar to an iPad. The phone is priced at 3,499 euros ($3,662), positioning it as a high-end device in the foldable phone market.
Huawei Faces Critical Barriers in Global Market Due to U.S. Restrictions and Trade Tensions
Although the Mate XT is a significant technological achievement, Huawei faces several challenges that could hinder its success. Analysts point out that the company’s limited access to critical components, including chips and Google services, has been a major obstacle.
These restrictions have made it difficult for Huawei to produce competitive smartphones globally. Bryan Ma, a vice president at IDC, noted that Huawei has emerged as an innovator in the foldable phone sector, but its progress has been achieved despite significant barriers, especially the lack of access to U.S. technology.
The ongoing trade conflict between the U.S. and China continues to affect Huawei’s global operations. In 2019, the U.S. imposed restrictions on Huawei, cutting off its access to American components and software, including Google’s services. This move has made Huawei’s smartphones less attractive to international consumers.
While the U.S. government justifies its actions by citing security concerns, Huawei denies these allegations, and China’s government views them as an attempt to stifle competition with American tech companies.
Huawei’s Mate XT Faces Pricing and Market Challenges Amid Global Competition and Limitations
While Huawei has made significant progress with foldable phones, analysts suggest that the high price of the Mate XT could limit its mass-market appeal. Huawei has dominated the foldable phone market in China with a 49% market share, but its global share is smaller, at 23% in 2024, compared to Samsung’s 33%. The steep cost of the Mate XT means it is more likely to appeal to niche buyers rather than a broad consumer base, limiting its potential reach in the foldable market.
Huawei’s success in the foldable phone market will depend on overcoming challenges related to supply chain issues, chip shortages, and software limitations.
Experts like Ruby Lu from TrendForce suggest that the lack of Google Mobile Services restricts Huawei’s ability to fully tap into international markets. Additionally, the eventual entry of Apple into the foldable phone market could have a significant impact, with Apple’s presence likely to drive further growth and competition within the foldable phone industry.