Huawei and Xiaomi unveiled new foldable smartphones Monday, staking claims in a high-margin category before Apple's anticipated entry this week.
Xiaomi released the Xiaomi 18 Fold, a passport-sized device matching Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 form factor. Huawei introduced the Mate XT2, the third generation of its trifold design.
Both companies emphasized custom silicon: Xiaomi's device uses the XRing O3, its latest in-house processor on an advanced node. Huawei's Mate XT2 is the first to use LogicFolding, a proprietary semiconductor technique designed to optimize electrical signal routing on foldable displays.
Apple is expected to announce its first foldable iPhone on Wednesday under new CEO John Ternus. Counterpoint Research forecasts Apple could capture 25 percent of the global foldable market this year with 6 million unit shipments—climbing to 40 percent by 2027.
The timing is deliberate. Francisco Jeronimo, vice president at IDC, said Huawei and Xiaomi moved to ensure their products are available for consumer comparison when Apple's device hits stores. "They're aware of Apple's impending launch and seeking to gain an advantage," Jeronimo said.
In China, Huawei controls more than two-thirds of the foldable market. Globally, Samsung remains the primary foldable competitor after launching the category in 2019.
Neil Shah, partner at Counterpoint Research, cited substantial pent-up demand for a foldable iPhone among Apple's installed base. Many consumers have resisted switching to Samsung's foldables; a compelling Apple device could trigger a wave of upgrades, particularly in China, Shah said.
