Huawei has launched the Mate XT2, its latest flagship foldable smartphone, as competition grows in China’s premium phone market. The company is looking to protect its lead against Apple and Xiaomi. The Mate XT2 uses a dual-fold design that opens into a tablet-sized display. It also comes with Huawei’s new Kirin 9050 Pro chip, which is designed to improve performance while using less power.
Huawei says the new chip delivers more computing power with better energy efficiency. The company has continued developing its own technology as US restrictions limit its access to advanced chips.
The new foldable also brings several hardware upgrades. Huawei has redesigned its folding mechanism and improved water resistance. An optional privacy display can also stop people nearby from viewing the screen.
Unfold extraordinary with Huawei's brand-new tri-fold smartphone and experience effortless versatility in your hands. pic.twitter.com/8g5jblQaQ7
— Huawei (@Huawei) September 1, 2026
Camera performance has been improved as well. Huawei claims the Mate XT2 delivers 42 per cent better overall performance than its predecessor. The figure is based on the company’s own tests. The launch comes as major rivals introduce new devices in China. Xiaomi is set to launch a competing foldable later Monday. Meanwhile, Apple will unveil its latest iPhone lineup on Wednesday.
Apple is also expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone. That could bring even more pressure to Huawei in the premium smartphone segment. Huawei currently leads China’s smartphone market. IDC data shows the company held a 22.6pc share in the second quarter. Apple followed with 18.1pc, while Xiaomi held 12.4pc.
Huawei’s position is even stronger in the foldable market. Smart Analytics Global says Huawei accounted for 68pc of foldable phone shipments in China during the second quarter. The Mate XT2 therefore arrives at an important time for Huawei. The company faces stronger competition while continuing to build its own technology ecosystem.
