An intensifying commercial rivalry between Apple, the leader in premium smartphones, and Chinese company Huawei has come to the forefront. Both companies are set to unveil their flagship products on the same day. Apple's iPhone 16 and Huawei's much-anticipated tri-fold phone 'Mate XT' are both expected to be launched on September 10, fueling a battle for consumer attention.
Apple, the world's largest tech company, will hold its "It's Glowtime" event on September 9 (Pacific Time), where the iPhone 16 and other AI-powered products are anticipated to be revealed. Just hours later, Huawei will introduce its Mate XT, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone.
Huawei’s competition with Apple is particularly critical in China, where the iPhone faces challenges in expanding its market share. Despite the iPhone 16's launch, Huawei expects to see increased smartphone sales. Details on Huawei's Mate XT remain sparse, but a teaser post on Weibo showed a device resembling Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip. Huawei's dual-hinged design has generated significant interest.
Richard Yu Chengdong, CEO of Huawei’s Consumer Business Group, shared that the company’s "most innovative product" would soon debut. Analysts have noted that Huawei’s strategic move to announce its tri-fold device just after Apple’s launch reflects a well-timed response.
The Mate XT is expected to be a part of Huawei's luxury Ultimate Design line, showcasing cutting-edge technology despite the U.S. sanctions limiting its access to critical American tech. Huawei has continued to innovate with its 7-nanometer chip, which powers the Mate 60 Pro, and the new device may use a similar chip.
Since Huawei's launch of the Mate 70 Pro in April, Apple has encountered growing business challenges in China, one of its most significant markets. Data from IDC shows Apple remains dominant globally in the premium segment, though its market share slipped from 70% to 58% in the first quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, Huawei’s share rose to 20%, signaling a fierce rivalry.
Huawei's work on foldable phones spans five years. According to the China National Intellectual Property Administration, the company filed a patent for its dual-hinged device in 2022. In the first quarter of 2024, Huawei surpassed Samsung in global foldable smartphone sales, holding a 35% market share, largely driven by domestic sales in China. -- Agencies
