Xiaomi and Huawei have launched new foldable smartphones shortly before Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone. Xiaomi introduced the Xiaomi 18 Fold, a passport-sized device similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8, while Huawei debuted the Mate XT2, the third generation of its trifold smartphone.
The timing suggests both companies aim to have their devices on the market first, allowing consumers to compare options directly when Apple enters the foldable segment. Apple’s entry could reshape the foldable smartphone market.
Counterpoint Research projects Apple might ship 6 million foldable iPhones in 2026, capturing a 25% share of the global foldable market, increasing to 40% in 2027.
Samsung, which launched the foldable category in 2019, is expected to remain Apple's main global competitor.
In China, Apple will face strong competition from Huawei, which currently holds over two-thirds of the country’s foldable market. Analysts predict high interest from Apple’s existing users, including those who previously avoided Samsung but might now consider upgrading to a foldable iPhone.
Competition extends to chip technology as well. Xiaomi’s 18 Fold runs on its self-designed XRing O3 processor. Huawei’s Mate XT2 incorporates a new semiconductor technology called LogicFolding, aimed at improving electrical signal movement on chips.
