Huawei is preparing to strengthen its position in the foldable smartphone market with the second-generation tri-folding phone, reportedly named the Mate XT 2. This successor to the original Mate XT aims to refine and enhance the tri-fold experience, targeting a direct competition with Samsung’s upcoming tri-fold device, expected to launch around the same timeframe.
Key Upgrades and Features of Huawei Mate XT 2
The Huawei Mate XT 2 was recently spotted on the TENAA certification platform under the model number GRL-AL20, a step up from the Mate XT’s GRL-AL10. The phone is confirmed to support 5G connectivity and, notably, could feature Tiantong satellite communication, similar to Huawei’s recent foldable offerings like the Mate X5. This satellite feature is designed to work when the device is fully unfolded, providing emergency communication capabilities.
Powering the Mate XT 2 is expected to be the Kirin 9020 chipset, bringing a performance boost over the previous generation’s Kirin 9010. The device is also rumored to feature a new 50MP main camera with variable aperture, which promises improved low-light photography and versatility. Additionally, enhancements to the periscope telephoto lens are anticipated, continuing Huawei’s tradition of strong camera performance in its flagship foldables.
Display and Design
The Mate XT 2 will likely retain the 10.2-inch triple-folding OLED display, delivering a large, versatile screen space that can fold seamlessly to multiple configurations. Huawei’s prior model featured a sophisticated folding mechanism designed to balance durability with a crease-minimizing design, and this iteration is expected to further refine that experience with protective layers and smooth mechanical operation.
Competitive Outlook: Huawei vs. Samsung
Huawei holds a leading edge as the first company to commercially launch a tri-folding phone, and the Mate XT 2 builds on that foundation with targeted improvements. Samsung, meanwhile, is gearing up to enter the segment with its own tri-fold smartphone, rumored to be called the Galaxy G Fold or Z TriFold, and expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
With Samsung’s device likely arriving after Huawei’s Mate XT 2, Huawei hopes to maintain its advantage, at least in China and other markets where it has a strong presence. The competition between these two tech giants is set to intensify the innovation race in foldable display technologies and features.
Huawei Mate XT 2 Highlights
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.2-inch triple-fold OLED |
| Processor | Kirin 9020 SoC |
| Main Camera | 50MP variable aperture sensor |
| Additional Cameras | Enhanced periscope telephoto lens |
| Connectivity | 5G and Tiantong satellite communication |
| Model Number | GRL-AL20 |
| Competition | Samsung Galaxy G Fold/Z TriFold (rumored) |
With the Huawei Mate XT 2, the company is refining its innovative tri-fold concept by enhancing key technologies like satellite communication and camera capabilities, all while gearing up to challenge Samsung’s entry into the tri-fold foldable segment. As the foldable market evolves, Huawei is clearly betting on incremental improvements and its early-mover advantage to stay ahead in this high-stakes race. The Mate XT 2 promises to appeal to enthusiasts eager for cutting-edge foldable phones with premium hardware and versatile features.