Chinese smartphone company Huawei has announced the launch of its trifold smartphone, the Mate XT, which is set to start at over $2,800. The phone began pre-orders on Saturday and will be available in stores on Sept. 20, the same day Apple is set to launch its new iPhone 16 series. Apple announced that its iPhone 16 Pro Max will start at $1,199 and the iPhone 16 at $799, with pre-orders starting on Friday and in-store sales on Sept. 20. The new iPhone models will come with Apple Intelligence AI features available in a free software update next month, offering new functions to users.
Huawei’s Mate XT also comes with artificial intelligence features such as text translation and cloud-based content generation. The device is 3.6 millimeters thick when unfolded, with a 10.2-inch screen, and can display content on single, double, or triple screens. Over 3.5 million preorders were received for the Mate XT smartphone as of midday Tuesday, crossing over 4 million after the launch event. Despite facing challenges and sanctions in the past, Huawei is striving to make a comeback in the smartphone industry and regain market share with its new offerings.
In contrast, Apple announced a new A18 chip for its new iPhone models, utilizing highly advanced 3-nanometer technology to make the iPhone 16 faster than its predecessors. Huawei did not discuss any chip developments during the Mate XT launch, but the company quietly released its Mate 60 Pro with a chip manufactured using a 7-nanometer process. Huawei has faced multiple rounds of sanctions, but the release of advanced technology has helped boost its sales in China. The Chinese telecommunications giant has shown resilience and perseverance in continuing to innovate and offer competitive products in the market.
Huawei’s latest launch event focused on Mate XT details and pricing, in contrast to its previous product launch that did not reveal details or significant advancements. The company has sought to differentiate itself in the market by offering innovative features and technology in its smartphones. Despite Apple losing its position among the top five smartphone vendors in China, Huawei has maintained a strong presence, ranking fourth in market share with 10.6 million smartphones shipped. The Chinese market has seen domestic players dominate the top spots, with Huawei continuing to be a key player in the competitive landscape.
As Huawei and Apple compete in the smartphone market, the launch of new models and technological advancements continue to drive consumer interest and demand. Huawei’s trifold Mate XT smartphone and Apple’s iPhone 16 series offer users a range of features and capabilities, catering to different preferences and needs. Both companies are investing in AI technology and chip advancements to enhance the user experience and offer cutting-edge devices to consumers. With the smartphone industry continuously evolving and innovating, customers can expect more choices and options from leading brands like Huawei and Apple in the future.
