In the fast-paced world of smartphones, where innovation is constant, Huawei has introduced a groundbreaking device—the Huawei Mate XT. This tri-fold phone, boasting an impressive array of features, stands out as the world’s first of its kind. But what is it like to use a phone that folds not just once, but twice? Let’s dive into the experience of this remarkable device.
A Glimpse at the Closed Design
When folded, the Mate XT offers a seemingly normal 6.4-inch display. Its sleek design, 90Hz refresh rate, and thin bezels create a seamless experience, comparable to modern smartphones like the Samsung Z Fold series. Despite the complex folding mechanism, the phone remains just 13mm thick when closed—on par with other foldables on the market.
Navigating the closed Mate XT is smooth, thanks to its power button/fingerprint combo and well-positioned volume controls. However, some of the screen edges remain exposed when it’s folded, making it vulnerable when placed in pockets or bags. Nevertheless, this initial impression offers a solid 8/10 rating for its closed smartphone functionality.
Small Tablet Mode: Unfolding the First Crease
Upon unfolding the first layer, the Mate XT reveals a 7.9-inch display, transforming the phone into a small tablet. Although this form factor is functional, the appeal lies in what comes next. This intermediate step offers a unique view with its square aspect ratio and flagship-level triple cameras, allowing users to take selfies using the primary camera with a preview on the screen.
In this mode, the experience feels a bit unbalanced due to the fold, but it remains highly usable. The Mate XT’s first crease is subtle, making it easy to ignore while interacting with the screen. Overall, this form factor deserves a solid 7/10 for its functionality and design.
Fully Unfolded: A Full-Sized Tablet Experience
The final fold is where the Mate XT truly shines. Fully unfolded, it reveals a 10.2-inch OLED display with a 3184×2232 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Despite its large size, the Mate XT remains impressively thin, offering a near-bezel-less experience. With two creases and a punch-hole camera on the left, it creates a tablet experience unlike any other.
This tri-fold innovation brings a full-sized tablet into the dimensions of a device that can fit into a pocket, which is a remarkable engineering feat. The Mate XT showcases Huawei’s ability to balance design with functionality, making it a standout device for anyone seeking cutting-edge technology.
Hardware and Specs
Inside the Mate XT, Huawei has packed flagship specifications. Powered by the Kirin 9010 chip, 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage, this device ensures top-tier performance. It features triple cameras: a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a telephoto lens. Additionally, the Mate XT includes a 5600mAh battery with 67W fast charging and 50W wireless charging, providing adequate power for most users.
However, with great features come compromises. The relatively smaller battery size compared to larger tablets might concern power users, and the lack of an IP rating for water and dust resistance leaves the phone vulnerable to damage. Additionally, the Mate XT’s speakers, while functional, deliver tinny sound quality due to the limited space inside the thin frame.
Final Thoughts
At approximately $3,500, the Huawei Mate XT is not only a technological marvel but also a significant investment. While it’s packed with innovation and offers a unique experience, potential buyers must weigh the trade-offs, including its limited battery size, speaker quality, and lack of water resistance.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Mate XT redefines what a smartphone can do. It pushes the boundaries of mobile technology, making it one of the most exciting devices available today. The tri-fold phone may very well pave the way for future innovations in the foldable market, offering a glimpse into the next evolution of smartphones.
